Traditionally the art of Eagle Hunting in the Kazakh culture was only handed down to boys, but now girls are being taught the tradition in Mongolia to keep it alive when their brothers have to leave the land. 

Israeli-Russian photographer Asher Svidensky encountered Ashol Pan, a 13-year-old, the first female to be trained for this old Kazakh art.

“She was perfect. I was amazed by her comfort and ease as she began handling the grand eagle for the first time in her life. She was fearlessly carrying it on her hand and caressing it somewhat joyfully.”