noun
falconry with small hawks or falcons
Refers specifically to hunting with small raptors such as sparrowhawks or kestrels, as opposed to larger birds like goshawks. A traditional practice in Japan.
See also: 小鷹
江戸時代には小鷹狩が武士の間で盛んに行われた。
During the Edo period, falconry with small hawks was popular among samurai.
小鷹狩の技術
The techniques of small-hawk falconry were passed down from master to apprentice.
鷹狩 is the general term for falconry, often implying the use of larger hawks or falcons. 小鷹狩 specifies the use of small raptors.
Compound of 小鷹 (small hawk) and 狩 (hunting). The exact historical origin is uncertain, but the practice has been documented in Japan since ancient times.