Todd Smith, age 16, of Wyoming, Ill., for his question:

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF FALCONRY?

Falconry is a sport that dates back to ancient times. Long winged falcons and certain types of hawks were trained to swoop down from the sky and catch small animals and other birds.

Falconry was practiced by the ancient Chinese, Persians and Egyptians. Its popularity spread to Asia and Europe. Members of royalty and nobility especially enjoyed the sport during medieval days.

After the 17th century the use of falconry declined. It has never been too popular in the United States mainly because many states prohibit the employment of hawks to kill game.

Hawks used in falconry are given rigorous training. They also learn to sit quietly on the falconer's wrist while wearing hoods over their heads.