What makes a falconry training book truly exceptional? Is it the comprehensive information it provides or the practical tips and techniques it offers? As a falconer myself, I have searched far and wide for the best resources to enhance my training skills and deepen my understanding of these magnificent birds of prey. In my quest, I have come across a handful of books that have truly stood out from the rest. So, if you’re eager, stay tuned because I will reveal the top five books that every aspiring falconer should have in their arsenal.
What are the best training books for falconry (Top 5)
As an experienced falconer, I have come across numerous training books that have proven to be invaluable in my journey. When it comes to the best training books for falconry, there are a few that stand out from the rest.
- The falconer’s apprentice – A Guide to training,”
- The Harris Hawk Revolution”
- Taming of Genghis”
- Falconry & Hawking” by Philip Golding
- Falconry Basics: An Introduction to the Care, maintenance, and Training of birds of prey.”

The falconer’s apprentice – a guide to training
The top five training books for falconry, which offer detailed and authoritative guidance, provide invaluable resources for aspiring falconers looking to master the art of training their birds of prey. These books cover a wide range of topics, including falconry techniques, training equipment, hunting strategies, falconry ethics, and raptor behaviour.
One of the best books on falconry training is “The Falconer’s Apprentice” by William Oakes. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to train a bird of prey, from imprinting and basic obedience to advanced hunting techniques. Oakes also delves into the importance of understanding raptor behaviour and how to build a strong bond with your bird.
The Harris Hawk Revolution
One of the most influential books in the field of falconry training is ‘The Harris Hawk Revolution,’ which offers invaluable insights and techniques for aspiring falconers looking to train their birds of prey. Here are three key areas covered in the book:
Harris Hawk Behavior: The book delves into the natural instincts and social dynamics of Harris hawks, helping falconers understand their behaviour better and build a strong bond with their birds.
Harris Hawk Diet: Understanding the dietary needs of Harris hawks is crucial for their health and performance. The book provides detailed information on their diet requirements and how to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet.
Harris Hawk Training Techniques: ‘The Harris Hawk Revolution’ offers a range of training techniques tailored specifically for raptors. From basic obedience training to advanced hunting skills, the book provides step-by-step guidance to help falconers train their birds effectively.
Taming of Genghis
Among the vast array of training books available for falconry, five standout titles provide comprehensive guidance and expertise for aspiring falconers. One such book that delves into the art of taming falcons is ‘Taming of Genghis’. This book explores various taming techniques used by falconers throughout history, shedding light on the challenges faced in the process. From understanding the psychology of these magnificent birds to employing the right training equipment,
‘Taming of Genghis’ offers valuable insights into the taming process. The historical significance of falconry and its cultural impact is also discussed, providing a holistic perspective on this ancient art form. With its detailed instructions and authoritative tone, ‘Taming of Genghis’ is a must-read for falconry enthusiasts seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills.
Falconry & Hawking Philip Golding
Falconry & Hawking Philip Golding offers a detailed and comprehensive guide to the top five training books for falconry, providing aspiring falconers with expert advice and valuable insights. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced falconer, these books will equip you with in-depth knowledge of falconry techniques, training equipment, hunting strategies with birds, falconry regulations, and the intricate aspects of bird behaviour and psychology. By delving into these books, you will gain a profound understanding of the ancient art of falconry and enhance your skills as a falconer.
Falconry Basics: An introduction to the care, maintenance, and training of birds of prey
One of the top books on this subject is “The Falconer’s Apprentice” by William C. Oakes. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on all aspects of falconry, from selecting a bird to training and hunting with it. Another highly recommended book is “The Falconer’s Handbook” by Adrian Lombard. This book offers practical advice on bird handling techniques and provides insights into the ancient art of falconry.
For those interested in learning about the training equipment used in falconry, “Falconry Equipment: A Guide to Making and Using Falconry Gear” by David de Botton is an excellent resource. It covers everything from jesses and leashes to hoods and perches.
To ensure the health and well-being of your falconry bird, “Falconry and Hawking” by Philip Golding provides valuable information on diet and nutrition. It offers guidance on feeding practices and discusses the different types of food that are essential for your bird’s optimal health.
Building trust with your falconry bird is crucial, and “The Modern Apprentice: A Guide to Training the Falconry Bird” by Matthew Mullenix can help you with this. It provides step-by-step instructions on building a strong bond with your bird and establishing effective communication.

Lastly, “The Art of Falconry” by Patrick Morel covers common challenges in falconry training. It offers practical solutions to problems such as aggression, fear, and disobedience, ensuring that you have the knowledge and tools to overcome any obstacles you may encounter in your falconry journey.
Best books for beginners (Top 5)
As someone who has been involved in falconry for years, I can confidently recommend the following five books for beginners:
- A Falconry Manual” by Frank Beebe
- Understanding the Bird of Prey
- Practical Falconry
- The Compleat Falconer” (also by Frank Beebe)
- Essential Apprentice Reading – Prep Material – Complete Instruction.
These books cover all the essential topics, from understanding the bird of prey to practical techniques and complete instruction for apprentices. They are written by experienced falconers and provide detailed, authoritative information that is invaluable for anyone starting their falconry journey.
A Falconry Manual by Frank Beebe
Frank Beebe’s falconry manual is a comprehensive and indispensable resource for beginners seeking to master the art of falconry. This manual covers a wide range of discussion topics, including falconry training techniques, bird training methods, and a detailed falconry equipment guide.
In his manual, Beebe provides clear and concise explanations of the fundamental concepts and principles of falconry. He offers step-by-step instructions on how to train and handle birds of prey, from the basics of building trust and establishing a bond with the bird to advanced techniques such as hunting and flying with multiple birds.
The manual also includes valuable insights and tips from Beebe’s own experiences as a seasoned falconer, making it a reliable and authoritative source of information. Whether you are new to falconry or looking to enhance your knowledge and skills, Frank Beebe’s falconry manual is a must-have guide for any aspiring falconer.

Understanding the bird of prey
‘Understanding the Bird of Prey’ is arguably one of the most thorough and insightful books in the realm of falconry. This book offers an in-depth look at raptor anatomy, physiology, and psychology, providing essential knowledge for both novice and seasoned falconers. Its detailed analysis of bird behaviour patterns demystifies the complexities of training and maintenance.
The author’s use of clear language and practical examples allows readers to easily grasp advanced concepts. Moreover, the stunning photographs and illustrations enhance the educational experience. Recommending this book to anyone with an interest in birds of prey and falconry is a pleasure, as it stands out for its educational value and accessibility, making it an invaluable addition to any falconer’s library.
Practical falconry
“Practical Falconry” is a must-read for anyone considering taking up falconry as a hobby or profession. The book offers valuable insights into the practical aspects of falconry, such as selecting a bird, building mews, and managing hunting trips. It also covers vital topics like health care, disease prevention, and dealing with accidents and injuries.
The book’s author, Edward Harting, is a renowned falconer with over 50 years of experience. His wealth of knowledge and expertise is reflected in the detailed and comprehensive information provided in this book. Whether you are looking to become an apprentice or have already started your journey as a falconer, “Practical Falconry” will prove to be an indispensable guide.
The compleat falconer by frank beebe
‘The Compleat Falconer’ by Frank Beebe is widely regarded as one of the best books for beginners in the field of falconry. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of falconry, from training techniques to historical origins. Beebe’s expertise shines through as he delves into the equipment needed for falconry, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right tools for the job.
The book also delves into falconry ethics, highlighting the responsibility that comes with the practice and the need for conservation. Beebe’s insights into hunting strategies are invaluable for novices, providing practical advice on how to work with a bird of prey in the pursuit of game. With its wealth of knowledge and practical guidance, ‘The Compleat Falconer’ is a must-read for anyone starting their journey into falconry.
Essential Apprentice Reading – Prep Material – Complete Instruction
For those looking for a comprehensive guide that covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques, “Essential Apprentice Reading” is the perfect choice. This book is written by experienced falconers and offers detailed instructions on all aspects of falconry, including managing a bird’s health, working with multiple birds, and dealing with challenging behaviours.
What sets this book apart is its emphasis on preparation. It provides valuable advice on how to prepare yourself and your bird for a successful falconry journey, covering topics such as building trust, creating a schedule, and learning necessary skills. This book is an excellent resource for any apprentice seeking to gain the knowledge and experience needed to become a skilled falconer.
Conclusion
These five books in each category are essential reads for anyone looking to begin their journey into the world of falconry. They offer a wealth of knowledge, practical tips, and personal experiences that will guide you toward becoming a successful falconer. With these books by your side, you will have all the necessary tools to embark on an exciting and fulfilling falconry journey.
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