As an experienced falconer, I can tell you that becoming a falconer is not just a hobby; it’s a lifelong commitment that requires navigating a complex blend of legal requirements, educational dedication, and hands-on experience. From passing rigorous exams to committing years to apprenticeship and continuous learning, the journey to becoming a licensed falconer is both challenging and rewarding.
Let me outline the necessary steps and time commitments involved in pursuing falconry in the United States, to ensure that you’re well-prepared for this ancient and noble practice of hunting with trained birds of prey.
Legal Requirements
Both federal and state laws regulate the path to becoming a licensed falconer. These regulations ensure that falconers are properly trained and equipped to care for their birds.
Minimum Age Requirement
Most states require aspiring falconers to begin the process when they are at least 12 years old. However, some states may have higher age requirements.
Hunting License
You must possess a valid state hunting license. This often involves completing a hunter education course, which can take several weeks to complete.
Written Examination
You’ll need to pass a written examination administered by your state wildlife agency. This test covers various aspects of falconry, including raptor biology, care, and relevant laws and regulations. Preparation for this exam can take several months of dedicated study.
Apprenticeship
The mandatory apprenticeship period is one of the most time-consuming aspects of becoming a falconer. This typically lasts for two years. During this time, you’ll work under the guidance of a licensed falconer who serves as your sponsor and mentor.
Educational Time Commitment
The educational component of falconry is a continuous process that requires dedication and commitment. As an apprentice, you must complete a certain minimum of hours per year, with at least half being hands-on experience. This education includes attending workshops, seminars, conferences, and other training opportunities.
Study and Preparation
Before taking the written exam, you should spend considerable time studying falconry literature, raptor biology, and relevant laws. This self-study period can last anywhere from several months to a year or more, depending on your prior knowledge and dedication.
Apprenticeship Learning
The two-year apprenticeship is a crucial educational period. You’ll learn practical skills such as proper handling and care of raptors, training techniques, hunting methods, and equipment maintenance. This hands-on learning requires a significant time commitment, often involving daily care for the bird and regular hunting outings during the season.
Facility and Equipment Preparation
You must construct appropriate housing (mews) for your birds and acquire the necessary equipment. Learning about proper facility design and gathering the required gear can take several weeks to months.
Ongoing Learning
Even after becoming a licensed falconer, learning never stops. You must continuously educate yourself on raptor behavior and health, hunting techniques, and new developments in the field.
Advancement Through Falconry Levels
The falconry licensing system in the United States typically consists of three levels:
- Apprentice: The initial two-year period.
- General: You can advance to this level after completing your apprenticeship and passing additional requirements. This level lasts for a minimum of five years.
- Master: The highest level, which can be achieved after at least seven years of experience (two as an apprentice and five as a general falconer).
Each advancement requires additional testing and demonstration of skills, representing a continued educational commitment.
Time Commitment for Active Falconry
Once licensed, falconry demands a substantial ongoing time investment. During the hunting season, you’ll often spend your weekends and many weekday hours working with your birds. Daily care, including feeding, health checks, and exercise, is necessary year-round.
Conclusion
Becoming a falconer is not a quick or easy process. The legal and educational requirements demand a multi-year commitment before you can even begin practicing falconry independently. From the initial study period through the apprenticeship and beyond, you should be prepared to dedicate significant time and energy to this challenging yet rewarding pursuit. The journey to becoming a falconer is as much about personal growth and dedication as it is about the art of working with birds of prey.
Are you ready to take the next step in your falconry journey? If so, I encourage you to learn more about falconry apprenticeships and the legal requirements in your area. Whether you’re just getting started or are already on your way, remember that dedication and patience are key to succeeding in this incredible lifelong pursuit.
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