Soaring High: Your Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a Falconer

Falconry, the ancient art and sport of hunting with trained birds of prey, is a deeply rewarding pursuit that connects you to nature in a profound way. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that demands dedication, patience, and a genuine respect for these magnificent creatures. Becoming a falconer is a challenging but achievable goal, requiring a combination of education, mentorship, and hands-on experience. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps involved in becoming a licensed falconer, providing detailed information to help you navigate the process.

## Understanding the Commitment

Before embarking on this journey, it’s crucial to understand the commitment involved. Falconry is not a casual hobby. It requires:

* **Significant Time Investment:** Daily care for your bird, including feeding, training, and flying, can take several hours each day.
* **Financial Resources:** The initial costs of equipment, housing, and veterinary care can be substantial, with ongoing expenses for food and maintenance.
* **Legal Compliance:** Falconry is strictly regulated by federal and state laws, and adherence to these regulations is paramount.
* **Emotional Resilience:** Working with a wild animal presents challenges. Birds can be unpredictable, and setbacks are inevitable. Patience and perseverance are essential.
* **Ethical Considerations:** Falconry is a hunting sport, and you must be comfortable with the ethical implications of taking game with a trained raptor.

If you’re prepared to meet these demands, then falconry may be the right pursuit for you.

## Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Falconer

### 1. Research and Education

The first step is to educate yourself about falconry. Read books, articles, and online resources. Learn about different raptor species, their behavior, and their care requirements. Familiarize yourself with the history and traditions of falconry, as well as the legal framework governing the sport.

**Recommended Resources:**

* **Books:**
* *North American Falconry and Hunting Hawks* by Beebe and Webster
* *Understanding the Bird of Prey* by Dr. Nick Fox
* *The Falconer’s Apprentice* by William Oakes
* **Organizations:**
* The North American Falconers Association (NAFA): [https://www.n-a-f-a.com/](https://www.n-a-f-a.com/)
* Your state’s falconry organization (search online for “[Your State] Falconry Association”)
* **Online Forums and Groups:** Search online for falconry forums and social media groups to connect with other falconers and learn from their experiences.

**Key Areas to Study:**

* **Raptor Biology and Behavior:** Understanding the natural history of raptors is crucial for providing proper care and training.
* **Falconry Techniques:** Learn about different training methods, such as operant conditioning and classical conditioning.
* **Equipment and Housing:** Familiarize yourself with the equipment used in falconry, such as jesses, swivels, leashes, and perches, as well as the requirements for building a suitable hawk house (mews).
* **Falconry Laws and Regulations:** Understand the federal and state laws that govern falconry, including permitting requirements, hunting regulations, and reporting procedures.
* **Avian Health and Disease:** Learn about common avian diseases and how to prevent and treat them.

### 2. Contact Your State Wildlife Agency

Falconry is regulated at the state level, so it’s essential to contact your state wildlife agency (usually the Department of Natural Resources or Fish and Wildlife Agency) to obtain information about falconry regulations and licensing requirements in your state. You can typically find this information on their website. Look for sections related to hunting, falconry, or wildlife permits.

**Key Information to Obtain:**

* **Falconry Permit Application Process:** Learn about the specific steps involved in applying for a falconry permit in your state.
* **Written Examination Requirements:** Determine the topics covered on the falconry exam and how to prepare for it.
* **Facility Inspection Standards:** Understand the requirements for building a mews and other facilities for housing your bird.
* **Sponsorship Requirements:** Learn about the qualifications for becoming a sponsor and the responsibilities of both the sponsor and the apprentice.
* **Permitted Raptor Species:** Find out which raptor species are allowed to be possessed under a falconry permit in your state.

### 3. Find a Sponsor

A sponsor is an experienced falconer who agrees to mentor you during your apprenticeship. Finding a good sponsor is crucial for your success in falconry. Your sponsor will guide you through the training process, provide advice and support, and help you navigate the challenges of working with raptors. In most states, sponsorship is a mandatory requirement for becoming a licensed falconer.

**Finding a Sponsor:**

* **Attend Falconry Club Meetings:** Your state’s falconry association is a great place to meet experienced falconers who may be willing to sponsor you.
* **Contact Your State Wildlife Agency:** They may be able to provide a list of licensed falconers in your area.
* **Network with Other Falconers:** Attend falconry events and workshops to meet other falconers and learn about potential sponsors.

**What to Look for in a Sponsor:**

* **Experience and Knowledge:** Choose a sponsor who has a proven track record of success in falconry and a deep understanding of raptor care and training.
* **Communication and Teaching Skills:** A good sponsor should be able to communicate effectively and explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner.
* **Commitment to Mentorship:** Your sponsor should be willing to dedicate the time and effort required to guide you through your apprenticeship.
* **Ethical Standards:** Choose a sponsor who adheres to the highest ethical standards in falconry and treats their birds with respect and compassion.

**Building a Relationship with a Potential Sponsor:**

* **Attend their falconry demonstrations or training sessions.** Offer to assist with routine tasks such as cleaning the mews or preparing food.
* **Show genuine interest in their falconry practices and ask thoughtful questions.**
* **Demonstrate your commitment to learning and your willingness to follow their guidance.**
* **Be respectful of their time and avoid being demanding.**
* **Clearly express your desire to learn from them and your dedication to becoming a responsible falconer.**

### 4. Pass the Falconry Examination

Most states require prospective falconers to pass a written examination to demonstrate their knowledge of falconry principles, raptor biology, laws and regulations, and ethical practices. The exam typically covers topics such as:

* **Raptor Identification:** Ability to identify different raptor species, both in flight and at rest.
* **Raptor Biology and Ecology:** Understanding of raptor anatomy, physiology, behavior, and habitat requirements.
* **Falconry Techniques:** Knowledge of different training methods, such as operant conditioning and classical conditioning.
* **Equipment and Housing:** Familiarity with the equipment used in falconry and the requirements for building a suitable mews.
* **Falconry Laws and Regulations:** Understanding of the federal and state laws that govern falconry.
* **Avian Health and Disease:** Knowledge of common avian diseases and how to prevent and treat them.
* **Ethics and Conservation:** Understanding of the ethical considerations in falconry and the importance of raptor conservation.

**Preparing for the Exam:**

* **Study Recommended Resources:** Review the books, articles, and online resources listed in Step 1.
* **Attend Falconry Workshops:** Many falconry clubs and organizations offer workshops and seminars to help prospective falconers prepare for the exam.
* **Take Practice Tests:** Some states or organizations may offer practice tests to help you assess your knowledge and identify areas where you need to study more.
* **Work with Your Sponsor:** Your sponsor can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you prepare for the exam.

### 5. Build Your Mews and Acquire Equipment

Before you can obtain a falconry permit, you must have suitable facilities for housing your bird. The mews is a secure and weatherproof structure that provides a safe and comfortable environment for your raptor.

**Mews Requirements:**

* **Size:** The mews should be large enough to allow the bird to fly freely and exercise.
* **Construction:** The mews should be constructed of durable materials that are resistant to damage from weather and predators.
* **Ventilation:** The mews should have adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes and maintain a healthy environment.
* **Perches:** The mews should have a variety of perches of different sizes and materials to accommodate the bird’s needs.
* **Security:** The mews should be secure enough to prevent the bird from escaping and to protect it from predators.
* **Hygiene:** The mews should be easy to clean and disinfect to prevent the spread of disease.

**Essential Equipment:**

* **Jesses:** Leather straps that are attached to the bird’s legs and used to secure it to a perch or glove.
* **Swivels:** Metal connectors that prevent the jesses from becoming twisted.
* **Leashes:** Long, lightweight ropes that are used to control the bird during training and hunting.
* **Gloves:** Heavy leather gloves that protect your hand from the bird’s talons.
* **Scales:** Accurate scales for weighing the bird to monitor its health and weight.
* **Telemetry:** A tracking system that allows you to locate the bird if it becomes lost.
* **Bathing Bowl:** A shallow bowl of water for the bird to bathe in.
* **Food:** A supply of fresh or frozen food, such as chicks, rodents, or game birds.

Your sponsor can advise you on the specific requirements for building a mews and acquiring equipment in your state.

### 6. Pass the Facility Inspection

Once you have built your mews, your state wildlife agency will inspect it to ensure that it meets the required standards. The inspector will check the size, construction, ventilation, perches, security, and hygiene of the mews.

**Preparing for the Inspection:**

* **Review the Facility Inspection Standards:** Obtain a copy of the facility inspection standards from your state wildlife agency and carefully review them.
* **Consult with Your Sponsor:** Your sponsor can help you ensure that your mews meets all the requirements.
* **Make Necessary Adjustments:** If the inspector identifies any deficiencies, make the necessary adjustments before the final inspection.

### 7. Obtain Your Apprentice Falconry Permit

After you have passed the falconry examination, built your mews, and passed the facility inspection, you can apply for an apprentice falconry permit. The application process typically involves submitting a completed application form, paying a fee, and providing documentation of your qualifications.

**Requirements for an Apprentice Permit:**

* **Sponsorship Agreement:** A signed agreement with your sponsor.
* **Examination Results:** Proof that you have passed the falconry examination.
* **Facility Inspection Report:** A copy of the facility inspection report.
* **Age Requirement:** Most states have a minimum age requirement for falconry apprentices (typically 14 or 16 years old).

### 8. Acquire Your First Raptor

As an apprentice falconer, you are typically restricted to possessing certain raptor species. Common choices for apprentices include:

* **American Kestrel:** A small and relatively easy-to-train falcon.
* **Red-tailed Hawk:** A large and powerful hawk that is widely available.
* **Harris’s Hawk:** A social and cooperative hawk that is often used in group hunts.

You can acquire a raptor in one of two ways:

* **Trapping:** You may be able to trap a wild raptor under a trapping permit issued by your state wildlife agency. The regulations regarding trapping vary by state, so it’s important to consult with your agency and your sponsor.
* **Captive Breeding:** You can purchase a raptor from a licensed captive breeder. Captive-bred raptors are often more expensive than wild-trapped raptors, but they may be easier to train and handle.

**Considerations When Choosing a Raptor:**

* **Your Experience Level:** As an apprentice, it’s best to choose a raptor species that is relatively easy to train and handle.
* **Your Hunting Goals:** Consider the type of game you want to hunt and choose a raptor that is well-suited for that type of hunting.
* **Your Available Resources:** Make sure you have the resources to provide proper care for the raptor, including housing, food, and veterinary care.

### 9. Training Your Raptor

Training a raptor is a gradual process that requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of raptor behavior. The training process typically involves the following steps:

* **Manning:** Getting the bird accustomed to being handled by humans.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining the bird at an optimal weight for hunting.
* **Creance Flying:** Flying the bird on a long line to build its strength and stamina.
* **Lure Training:** Teaching the bird to fly to a lure (a piece of leather or other material that resembles prey).
* **Free Flying:** Allowing the bird to fly freely in a safe and controlled environment.
* **Hunting:** Introducing the bird to live prey and teaching it to hunt effectively.

Your sponsor will guide you through the training process and provide advice on the best techniques to use for your particular bird.

### 10. Documenting Your Activities

Falconry regulations require you to keep detailed records of your activities, including:

* **Acquisition and Disposal of Raptors:** Records of when you acquired or disposed of a raptor, including the date, species, and source.
* **Training Activities:** Records of your training sessions, including the date, time, location, and type of training performed.
* **Hunting Activities:** Records of your hunting trips, including the date, time, location, and game taken.
* **Veterinary Care:** Records of any veterinary care your bird receives.

These records must be maintained for a specified period of time and may be subject to inspection by your state wildlife agency.

### 11. Upgrade to a General Falconer License

After completing your apprenticeship (typically a minimum of two years), you can apply to upgrade to a general falconry license. To qualify for a general license, you must:

* **Document Your Experience:** Provide documentation of your experience as an apprentice falconer, including your training and hunting activities.
* **Pass an Advanced Examination:** Some states require general falconers to pass an advanced examination to demonstrate their knowledge of falconry principles and practices.
* **Meet Additional Requirements:** Some states may have additional requirements for general falconers, such as a minimum age or a certain number of years of experience.

Once you have obtained a general falconry license, you will have more freedom in terms of the raptor species you can possess and the hunting activities you can pursue.

## Ethical Considerations in Falconry

Falconry is a hunting sport, and as such, it’s important to consider the ethical implications of your actions. Ethical falconers:

* **Respect the Raptor:** Treat their birds with respect and compassion, and provide them with the best possible care.
* **Hunt Responsibly:** Hunt ethically and sustainably, and comply with all hunting regulations.
* **Promote Conservation:** Support raptor conservation efforts and educate others about the importance of protecting these magnificent birds.
* **Avoid Unnecessary Harm:** Take steps to minimize the risk of injury or death to both the raptor and the prey.
* **Be a Good Steward of the Land:** Respect private property and public lands, and leave no trace behind.

## Conclusion

Becoming a falconer is a challenging but rewarding journey. It requires dedication, patience, and a genuine love for raptors. By following these steps and committing to ethical practices, you can experience the unique and profound connection that falconry offers. Remember to always prioritize the well-being of your bird and respect the natural world. Good luck on your falconry adventure!