A dependable falconry tethering system is built as a complete setup: anklets fitted to the bird, jesses suited to the intended use, and a leash or tether strap appropriate for the perch, block, weathering area, or field routine. Each part matters, but fit comes first.
This guide explains how AO Falconry Supplies organizes its tethering equipment and what information to provide when ordering. It is designed to help falconers compare options without treating every bird or every product as interchangeable.
The three parts of a falconry tethering setup
- Anklets sit around the bird’s tarsi and provide the attachment point for the jesses.
- Jesses connect the anklets to the handler’s control system.
- Leashes and tether straps secure the bird at the perch or help manage the transition from glove to tethering point, depending on the product and the falconer’s setup.
Compatibility matters. Before ordering, consider the bird’s species, sex, individual build, and the hardware or tethering system already in use.
How to choose falconry anklets
Anklets should be selected for the individual bird. For AO anklets and permanent anklets, the essential fitting information is the bird species and sex. Flight weight is not required for these products.
AO offers several anklet systems for different preferences:
- Leather Falconry Anklets are a practical field option and can be ordered with or without an additional eyelet for bells.
- Permanent Kangaroo Anklets use vegetable-tanned kangaroo leather for a light, durable permanent setup.
- Permanent Anklets – Marshall EZ-Twist System are designed for falconers using the compatible Marshall system.
These permanent anklet products are fitted using species and sex information. They are not presented as generic Micro or Standard variants.
How to choose falconry jesses
AO Braided Falconry Jesses are offered in Micro and Standard configurations because line scale and finished proportions should match the bird and the intended setup.
Micro
The Micro range is intended for small raptors from American Kestrel through female Merlin, including small species such as the Sharp-shinned Hawk. Cooper’s Hawk is not included in the Micro guide because its larger build places it in the Standard range.
Standard
The Standard range covers larger falcons and hawks, including Peregrine Falcons, Gyrfalcons, Saker Falcons, Harris’s Hawks, Goshawks, Red-tailed Hawks, and Ferruginous Hawks. The upper end of the guide includes female Red-tailed Hawks and female Ferruginous Hawks.
Species ranges are a starting point. Sex and individual build still matter, especially near the edge of a range.
Leashes and tether straps
The Handcrafted Woven Leash is available in Micro and Standard configurations and in several lengths and colors. Choose the configuration for the bird first, then select the length and material that match the perch or block setup.
The Dacron Falconry Tether Strap is also offered in Micro and Standard configurations. It is intended to help manage the bird as it leaves the glove and should be selected for the bird’s size and the falconer’s handling system.
Micro and Standard labels apply only where they are shown on the individual product page. They should not be assumed to apply to every anklet, strap, or accessory in the store.
Dedicated eagle equipment
Eagles require equipment built for their scale and strength. AO offers a dedicated system rather than treating eagle equipment as an oversized version of standard hawking gear:
For Eagle Anklets, provide the eagle’s species and sex so the order can be prepared for the correct bird.
What to provide with your order
- Species: use the complete common name when possible.
- Sex: male or female.
- Existing reference: if the bird already uses equipment that fits correctly, include the maker, model, or size when the product page requests it.
- Intended setup: note the hardware or system you plan to use if compatibility may affect the choice.
If you are uncertain between two options, contact AO Falconry Supplies before ordering. A short description of the bird and current equipment can prevent a poor match and help us recommend the correct product.
Shop falconry anklets, jesses and leashes or contact AO for fitting help.