Can You Have A Pet Falcon? Falconry Laws & Ownership Guide

Can you have a pet falcon? Generally, no. Owning a falcon is not as simple as buying a cat or dog. It almost always requires a falconry license, substantial knowledge, dedicated time, and specialized resources. Becoming a falconer involves navigating complex legal requirements and meeting strict standards of care. This article will explore the world of falconry, explaining the process of owning a falcon, the falcon care requirements, and the legal hurdles you’ll need to overcome.

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What is Falconry?

Falconry is the art of training raptors (birds of prey) to hunt wild game in cooperation with a human. It’s a practice that dates back thousands of years, steeped in tradition and demanding a deep bond between falconer and bird. It is far more than simply owning a bird; it is a partnership built on trust, respect, and shared purpose.

Falconry: More Than Just a Hobby

Falconry is a highly regulated activity, recognized and protected as a traditional hunting method in many countries. Because of this heritage and the sensitive nature of working with wild animals, strict laws govern who can practice it and how. Falconry’s importance extends beyond recreation; it also contributes to raptor conservation, as falconers often participate in falcon breeding programs and rescue efforts.

Legal Requirements for Falcons

Owning a falcon is governed by strict legal requirements designed to protect both the birds and the integrity of the sport. The primary hurdle is obtaining a falconry license, which is not easy to come by.

Falconry License Tiers

Most countries (including the United States) have a tiered system for falconry licenses:

• Apprentice: This is the entry-level license. You must be sponsored by a general or master falconer for a set amount of time. During this time, the mentor provides guidance and teaches falconry techniques. You are also restricted to owning one relatively easy-to-manage raptor, such as an American Kestrel or a Red-tailed Hawk (depending on local regulations).
• General: After a certain period (usually two years) as an apprentice, you can apply for a general license. This allows you to own more experienced or sensitive birds. You may also own more than one bird.
• Master: This is the highest level of falconry license, achieved after several years of experience at the general level. A master falconer can own any legal raptor species and sponsor apprentice falconers.

Getting Your Falconry License

Here are the general steps involved in getting a falconry license:

1. Meeting Basic Requirements: You must be at least a certain age (often 14 for an apprentice license), pass a written exam, and have suitable facilities for housing a raptor.
2. Finding a Sponsor: This is a crucial step. Your sponsor will guide you through the process, teaching you falconry techniques, falcon care requirements, and ethical hunting practices.
3. Passing the Written Exam: The exam covers a wide range of topics, including raptor identification, health, training, laws, and regulations.
4. Facility Inspection: A state or federal wildlife official will inspect your facilities to ensure they meet the required standards for housing a raptor. This includes the size and type of housing (mews) and perches, as well as biosecurity measures.
5. Acquiring a Bird: Once you’ve passed the exam and inspection, and have a sponsor, you can obtain your first bird, usually through capture in the wild (if allowed in your area) or from a licensed falcon breeding program.

Legal Requirements Table

Requirement	Description
Age	Minimum age requirement (varies by state/country, often 14 for apprentice)
Exam	Passing a written exam on raptor biology, falconry laws, and practices
Facilities	Meeting specific standards for housing and caring for a raptor, subject to inspection
Sponsorship	Being sponsored by a licensed general or master falconer (for apprentice license)
Permits	Obtaining required permits for capturing, possessing, and transporting raptors
Reporting	Maintaining accurate records of your falcon’s health, training, and hunting activities
Species Restrictions	Some raptor species may be prohibited or restricted depending on experience level and local regulations

Other Laws

In addition to licensing requirements, falconers must comply with other laws:

• Hunting Regulations: Falconers must adhere to all applicable hunting regulations, including season dates, bag limits, and permitted hunting areas.
• Endangered Species Act: Falcons listed as endangered or threatened are subject to additional protections.
• Migratory Bird Treaty Act: This act protects migratory birds, including many raptor species.
• CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species): International trade of falcons is regulated by CITES to prevent overexploitation.

Falcon Species as Pets

While technically falcons are not “pets” in the traditional sense, certain species are more commonly used in falconry than others. The choice of species depends on the falconer’s experience level, the intended quarry, and local regulations.

Popular Falconry Species

• Peregrine Falcon: Known for its incredible speed and hunting prowess, the Peregrine is a highly prized falconry bird. Due to their protected status, they are rare.
• Gyrfalcon: The largest falcon species, Gyrfalcons are powerful and adaptable hunters, often used in colder climates.
• Harris’s Hawk: While technically a hawk, Harris’s Hawks are commonly used in falconry due to their social nature and ease of training. They’re also allowed for entry-level falconers.
• American Kestrel: The smallest falcon in North America, the Kestrel is often used by apprentice falconers to learn the basics of falconry.
• Red-tailed Hawk: Another hawk species frequently used by beginning falconers. They are also fairly common in many areas.

Considerations When Choosing a Species

When choosing a falconry bird, consider the following:

• Experience Level: Beginners should start with easier-to-manage species like the American Kestrel or Red-tailed Hawk.
• Quarry: The type of game you intend to hunt will influence the choice of species.
• Climate: Some species are better suited to certain climates than others.
• Local Regulations: Check your local regulations to see which species are permitted for falconry.
• Availability: Some species may be more difficult to obtain than others.

Falcon Care Requirements

Owning a falcon is a significant commitment. They require specialized care and attention. Neglecting their needs is not only unethical but also illegal.

Falcon Housing (Mews)

Falcons require secure and spacious housing, typically called a “mews.” The mews should:

• Protect the bird from the elements: Provide shelter from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
• Prevent escape: Be constructed of strong materials with secure doors and windows.
• Protect from predators: Be designed to keep out potential predators like foxes, raccoons, and owls.
• Provide adequate ventilation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes.
• Include suitable perches: Provide a variety of perches for the bird to rest on, with different diameters and textures.

Falcon Diet and Feeding

Falcons are carnivores and require a diet consisting primarily of whole prey items such as:

• Quail: A common and nutritious food source for falconry birds.
• Pigeons: Readily available and provide a good source of protein and fat.
• Chicks: Another common food source, especially for young birds.
• Rats and Mice: Provide essential nutrients and help maintain the bird’s hunting instincts.

Falcon Diet Table

Food Item	Nutritional Benefits	Considerations
Quail	High in protein and essential nutrients	Ensure source is free of pesticides and diseases
Pigeons	Good source of protein and fat	Ensure source is healthy and free of diseases
Chicks	Easily digestible and suitable for young birds	Supplement with other food sources to ensure a balanced diet
Rats/Mice	Provides essential nutrients and encourages natural hunting behaviors	Use captive-bred rodents to avoid exposure to toxins or diseases

Maintaining the health of your falcon

Maintaining your falcon’s health includes the following:

• Regular Weighing: Monitoring your falcon’s weight is crucial for detecting early signs of illness.
• Feather Care: Falcons need to preen their feathers regularly to keep them in good condition. You may need to assist with feather maintenance, such as removing broken or damaged feathers.
• Bathing: Falcons need to bathe regularly to keep their feathers clean and healthy. You can provide a shallow bath or mist the bird with water.
• Veterinary Care: Find a veterinarian experienced with raptors and schedule regular checkups. Be prepared for emergency situations, such as injuries or illnesses.

Falcon Training Techniques

Falcon training is a complex and time-consuming process that requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of raptor behavior.

Initial Training

The initial stages of training focus on building trust and establishing a bond between the falconer and the bird. This involves:

• Manning: Getting the bird accustomed to being handled and perched on the glove.
• Creance Flying: Flying the bird on a long line (creance) to teach it to come to the glove for food.
• Weighing: Associating the scale with a positive experience (food) so the bird willingly steps on.

Advanced Training

Once the bird is reliably coming to the glove, you can begin more advanced training:

• Free Flying: Flying the bird off the creance and allowing it to fly freely in a controlled environment.
• Lure Training: Using a lure (a piece of leather or fur that resembles prey) to train the bird to chase and catch.
• Hunting: Taking the bird hunting in the field and allowing it to pursue wild game.

Falconry Equipment

Falconry requires specialized equipment to care for and train your bird. Essential items include:

• Gloves: A heavy leather glove to protect your hand from the bird’s talons.
• Jesses: Leather straps attached to the bird’s legs, used to secure it to the perch or glove.
• Swivels: Metal swivels that connect the jesses to the leash, preventing tangling.
• Leash: A strong leash used to restrain the bird when necessary.
• Hood: A leather hood used to cover the bird’s eyes, calming it and preventing it from becoming distracted.
• Telemetry: A radio transmitter attached to the bird that allows you to track its location if it flies out of sight.
• Scales: A digital scale used to weigh the bird regularly.

Falcon Breeding Programs

Falcon breeding programs are vital for conserving raptor populations and providing birds for falconry. These programs involve:

• Captive Breeding: Breeding falcons in captivity to produce offspring for falconry or release into the wild.
• Genetic Management: Maintaining genetic diversity within captive populations to prevent inbreeding.
• Rehabilitation: Caring for injured or orphaned wild falcons and releasing them back into the wild.

The Cost of Owning a Falcon

The cost of owning a falcon can vary widely depending on the species, your location, and the equipment you need.

Estimated Costs Table

Expense	Estimated Cost	Notes
Falconry License Fees	\$50 – \$200 per year	Varies by state/country
Mews Construction	\$1,000 – \$5,000+	Depends on size, materials, and complexity
Falcon Purchase/Capture	\$500 – \$30,000+	Depends on species and source (wild-caught vs. captive-bred); Peregrine Falcons are at the high end
Falconry Equipment	\$500 – \$1,500	Includes glove, jesses, leash, hood, telemetry, etc.
Food	\$50 – \$200 per month	Depends on the size and appetite of the bird and the cost of prey items
Veterinary Care	\$100 – \$500+ per year	Includes routine checkups and potential emergency care
Training/Mentorship	Variable	Can range from free (if sponsored) to several hundred dollars for formal courses

FAQ: Owning a Falcon

Q: Is it legal to own a falcon without a falconry license?

A: No, it is illegal to own a falcon without a valid falconry license in most jurisdictions.

Q: What is the first step in becoming a falconer?

A: The first step is to research your state or country’s falconry regulations and find a licensed falconer willing to sponsor you.

Q: How long does it take to become a master falconer?

A: It typically takes at least seven years to become a master falconer, including two years as an apprentice and five years as a general falconer.

Q: What if I find an injured falcon?

A: Contact your local wildlife agency or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Do not attempt to care for the bird yourself without proper authorization.

Q: Can I breed falcons without a special permit?

A: No, breeding falcons typically requires a special permit and adherence to strict regulations.

Q: What is the best falcon species for a beginner?

A: American Kestrels and Red-tailed Hawks are generally considered good options for beginner falconers.

Q: What do I do if my falcon escapes?

A: Immediately report the escape to your local wildlife agency. Use your telemetry equipment to try to locate the bird. Contact other falconers in your area for assistance.

Q: Are there any ethical considerations in falconry?

A: Yes, falconry involves significant ethical considerations, including the welfare of the birds, responsible hunting practices, and the conservation of wild raptor populations.

Q: Is falconry cruel to the bird?

A: When practiced responsibly, falconry is not inherently cruel. A well-cared-for falcon in falconry can live a longer and healthier life than it would in the wild. Good falconers prioritize the bird’s welfare and provide a stimulating and enriching environment. However, like any practice involving animals, there is potential for abuse or neglect if not done properly.

Conclusion

Owning a falcon is a challenging but rewarding experience. It demands a deep commitment to the bird’s well-being, a thorough knowledge of falconry techniques, and a willingness to navigate complex legal requirements. If you are considering falconry, be prepared to dedicate significant time, resources, and effort to this ancient and respected art. Ensure you fully grasp the falcon care requirements and legal requirements for falcons before embarking on this journey.