Interested in Falconry?
In its most simple form, falconry is the taking of wild quarry with trained birds of prey.
Falconry is not keeping a bird of prey as a pet.
Falconry is the most regulated hunting sport in the United States and with good reason, as a falconer is entrusted with the wellbeing of federally protected birds of prey.
Being a falconer requires you to spend multiple days a week at a minimum, taking your bird into the field pursuing game.
The birds that work with falconers are best described as wild animals that have been conditioned to cooperate with a falconer to achieve the end result of taking wild quarry.
If you are interested in birds of prey, but not able to actively hunt for quarry with a bird, there are other admirable routes for an individual to take in order to work with these majestic animals. Consider working as a volunteer at a local raptor rehab facility or education center, or work to obtain a raptor rehabilitation license, or raptor education permit.
Becoming a Falconer
Becoming a falconer can seem like a daunting prospect. The goal of the process is to only encourage dedicated individuals that will take the responsibility of practicing the sport seriously.
In order to become an apprentice falconer, one must:
Construct facilities and obtain necessary equipment
Obtain a suitable bird of prey with sponsor
Hunt with a bird of prey for two years
Demonstrate necessary knowledge and skills
With approval of sponsor, one may be upgraded to general class falconer
This is no doubt, a long and complex process, but with dedication, responsibility, maturity, and respect, it can be achieved.
Looking for guidance on finding a potential sponsor or other falconers near you?
Daren McGrew
chaplaind@gmail.com
Thank you Daren for volunteering to help the Guild!