The Comprehensive Guide On How To Get Into Falconry For Beginners

Entering the field of falconry requires a rigorous two-year apprenticeship under a licensed General or Master Falconer, coupled with passing a state-proctored examination and passing a physical inspection of your raptor housing facilities. Success is defined by your ability to secure a federal and state permit, construct specialized mews, and dedicate the daily time required for the intensive training and husbandry of a wild bird of prey.

Foundational Requirements and Regulatory Preparation

Falconry is not a hobby but a commitment to the life and health of a predator. Before obtaining your first bird, you must satisfy legal, educational, and structural requirements. Because raptors are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, federal and state regulations are strict. You must be at least 14 years of age in most jurisdictions, pass a state-administered falconry examination with a score of 80% or higher, and find a sponsor.

• Essential Regulatory Checklist:
• State and Federal Falconry Permits: You must apply for a permit through your state wildlife agency.
• The Sponsor: A licensed General or Master Falconer must sign on to supervise your two-year apprenticeship.
• Exam Preparation: Study the California Hawking Club Apprentice Study Guide or the North American Falconers Association (NAFA) training manual.
• Facility Inspection: Your mews (indoor housing) and weathering yard (outdoor enclosure) must meet state standards for protection against predators, weather, and escape.
• Financial Allocation: Expect an initial investment of $1,500 to $3,000 for equipment, housing construction, and initial licensing fees.

The Systematic Path to Licensure and Raptor Management

Step 1: Secure a Sponsor and Study for the Exam

Your apprenticeship begins with finding a mentor. This individual will teach you the fundamentals of trapping, feeding, and flying a raptor. Contact your state falconry association to find a local club meeting. While networking, study the biological and legal aspects of raptor care. Focus on species identification, raptor health, and the specific regulations dictated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Pro-Tip: Do not purchase equipment until your sponsor has reviewed your facility plans. Many beginners buy expensive gear that fails to meet state inspection requirements for size or safety.

Step 2: Construct Compliant Housing

Your bird requires two distinct spaces: an indoor mews and an outdoor weathering area. The mews must be dry, draft-free, and easy to clean. It should feature a window protected by vertical bars or heavy-duty wire mesh. The weathering area allows the bird to bathe and enjoy sunlight. Both must be predator-proof—capable of keeping out raccoons, domestic cats, and owls.

Step 3: Procure Essential Falconry Gear

You will need a specific kit before the bird arrives. This includes a leather glove (typically made of thick cowhide or elk skin), a telemetry system (radio transmitter and receiver to track your bird), jesses (leather straps attached to the bird’s legs), and a lure.

Warning: Never use a dog collar or improvised leash. Always use traditional, knot-tested equipment specifically designed for the species of raptor you are keeping to prevent injury or equipment failure during flight.

Step 4: The Apprenticeship and Initial Trapping

Under the guidance of your sponsor, you will trap your first bird—usually a Red-tailed Hawk for a novice. You must learn the weight management protocols, which involve daily weigh-ins using a digital gram scale. Understanding the bird's "flying weight" is critical; if the bird is too heavy, it will not respond to your training; if it is too light, it risks starvation and organ failure.

Step 5: Daily Husbandry and Flight Training

Training involves "manning" the bird (getting it comfortable with human presence) and creance training (flying the bird on a long tether). Once the bird consistently returns to the glove for food, you progress to free-flight training in open environments.

Technical Specifications for Raptor Housing and Equipment

Common Field Failures and Technical Remedies

• Failure: Bumblefoot (Pododermatitis)

  
  
  
  • Root Cause: Unsanitary perches or perches that are too hard, causing sores on the raptor’s feet.
  • Actionable Fix: Replace all hard wood or metal perches with soft, padded, or naturally textured surfaces that match the bird’s natural grip. Perform daily foot inspections for any sign of redness or swelling.

• Failure: Bird Refuses to Return (The "Wait-Out")

  
  
  
  • Root Cause: The bird is over-fed and lacks the incentive to return to the glove, or it is spooked by external stimuli.
  • Actionable Fix: Strictly adhere to the weight management protocol. If the bird remains in a tree, do not attempt to chase it; wait for it to become hungry or return to the last known feeding site.

• Failure: Equipment Failure (Broken Jesses)

  
  
  
  • Root Cause: Normal wear and tear on leather materials due to friction.
  • Actionable Fix: Implement a mandatory monthly inspection of all leather components. Treat leather with appropriate non-toxic conditioners and replace any jesses showing thinning or fraying immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I practice falconry with any type of bird?

No. Apprentices are generally restricted to specific species, most commonly the Red-tailed Hawk, as they are hardy and more forgiving for beginners. Protected species, such as Golden Eagles, require years of experience and specific permits that are not available to those in the apprenticeship phase.

How much time does falconry require each day?

Falconry is a lifestyle, not a hobby. You must commit at least 1 to 2 hours every day to the care, feeding, and training of your bird. During the hunting season, this commitment often increases significantly to ensure the bird remains healthy and conditioned for flight.

Is falconry expensive to maintain?

While the setup costs are significant, the ongoing costs involve high-quality meat (such as quail, rabbit, or day-old chicks), medical checkups, and equipment replacement. It is not considered a low-cost pursuit, and you should ensure you have a consistent budget for the life of the bird.

What happens if I move to a new state?

Falconry permits are state-regulated. If you move, you must contact the wildlife agency in your new state to transfer your permit and meet their specific regional requirements. Always verify the regulations of your new location before relocating your raptor.

Start Your Falconry Journey

Contact your local state falconry association today to request a mentor application and begin your path toward becoming a licensed falconer. Mastering this ancient art form requires patience and dedication, but the bond formed with a raptor is unmatched by any other discipline.