How to Become a Falconer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Falconry, a historical practice with roots tracing back millennia, demands a unique blend of dedication, knowledge, and respect for birds of prey; aspiring falconers often ask, how do you become a falconer? The North American Falconers Association (NAFA), a leading organization, offers resources and mentorship crucial for navigating this path. Apprenticeships, typically lasting two years under a licensed General or Master Falconer, provide hands-on experience in raptor care and training; specialized equipment, such as telemetry devices, are essential tools for tracking birds during free flights. State and federal regulations, including permits from agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, govern the legal aspects of falconry, ensuring responsible and ethical practices.

Unveiling the Ancient Art of Falconry: A Time-Honored Tradition

Falconry, at its core, is the art and practice of training raptors – birds of prey – to hunt wild game in cooperation with a human falconer.

This ancient pursuit transcends mere sport; it represents a profound connection between humans and the natural world, demanding a deep understanding of avian behavior, ecology, and conservation.

Defining Falconry: More Than Just a Sport

Falconry is distinguished from simply keeping a bird of prey as a pet or using it for display. It involves a structured training regimen designed to hone the raptor’s natural hunting instincts.

The falconer cultivates a partnership with the bird, directing its skills toward capturing quarry in its natural environment.

This collaboration is built upon trust, mutual respect, and a shared objective, blurring the lines between predator and partner.

A Glimpse into History: Falconry Across Cultures

The origins of falconry are shrouded in the mists of time, with evidence suggesting its practice in various forms across different cultures for millennia.

Central Asia is often cited as the birthplace of falconry, with nomadic tribes using eagles and other large raptors to hunt for sustenance in the vast steppes.

From there, the practice spread westward to the Middle East, where it became a symbol of nobility and status, deeply entwined with the traditions of royalty and aristocracy.

In Europe, falconry flourished during the medieval period, becoming a popular pastime among kings, nobles, and even religious figures. Different species of raptors were associated with different social classes, reflecting the hierarchical structure of feudal society.

Historical texts and artwork vividly depict falconers in pursuit of game, showcasing the elegant attire, specialized equipment, and highly trained birds that characterized this elite pursuit.

Even in Japan, falconry, known as Takagari, has a rich history dating back centuries. Traditionally practiced by the samurai class, Takagari was not just a hunting method but a symbol of status and a way to train warriors in discipline and patience.

Modern Falconry: Conservation and Ethical Hunting

Today, falconry is practiced worldwide, albeit often under strict regulations designed to protect both the raptors and their prey.

Modern falconers are increasingly involved in conservation efforts, contributing to research on raptor populations, habitat preservation, and the rehabilitation of injured birds.

Many falconers breed raptors in captivity to supplement wild populations or to provide birds for falconry training, reducing the need to take birds from the wild.

Ethical hunting practices are paramount in modern falconry. Falconers adhere to strict guidelines that prioritize the welfare of the quarry and ensure that hunts are conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner.

This includes carefully selecting quarry species, minimizing disturbance to the environment, and ensuring that hunts are conducted with respect for the natural world.

Raptors 101: Decoding the Apex Predators of Falconry

Before embarking on the journey of falconry, a solid understanding of raptors is paramount. These magnificent birds, honed by millennia of evolution, possess unique characteristics and adaptations that make them both formidable hunters and sensitive partners. Let’s delve into the world of raptors, exploring their general traits, common species, and crucial concepts for aspiring falconers.

General Characteristics and Hunting Adaptations

Raptors, also known as birds of prey, share a suite of defining characteristics that enable them to excel as predators.

Keen eyesight is perhaps their most notable feature, allowing them to spot quarry from great distances.

Their powerful talons are designed for grasping and subduing prey, while their sharp, hooked beaks are perfectly suited for tearing flesh.

Most raptors exhibit reverse sexual dimorphism, where the females are larger than the males. This is theorized to allow females to hunt larger prey or protect the nest more effectively.

Adaptations extend beyond physical attributes to hunting strategies. Some, like falcons, rely on speed and aerial prowess, while others, such as hawks, employ stealth and ambush tactics. Understanding these adaptations is crucial for selecting and training a raptor effectively.

Common Falconry Species: A Closer Look

The choice of raptor is a critical decision for any falconer. Several species are commonly used, each with its own temperament, hunting style, and suitability for different experience levels.

Red-tailed Hawk ( Buteo jamaicensis ): The Beginner’s Choice

The Red-tailed Hawk is often recommended for novice falconers due to its relative hardiness and adaptability. These hawks are opportunistic hunters that can thrive in a variety of environments, making them relatively forgiving of beginner mistakes.

They possess a steady temperament, which facilitates the training process. However, they still require consistent and dedicated handling.

Harris’s Hawk ( Parabuteo unicinctus ): The Social Hunter

Unlike most raptors, Harris’s Hawks exhibit social hunting behavior, often working together in groups to flush out prey. This unique characteristic makes them highly adaptable to falconry, as they readily bond with their human handlers.

Their intelligent and cooperative nature makes them a joy to train. They thrive in environments where they can interact with their falconer.

American Kestrel ( Falco sparverius ): Small Size, Big Potential

As the smallest falcon in North America, the American Kestrel might seem an unlikely falconry bird.

However, its small size and manageable needs make it a suitable option for falconers with limited space or experience.

While Kestrels require precise training and a delicate touch, they can provide a rewarding falconry experience.

Peregrine Falcon ( Falco peregrinus ): The Speed Demon

The Peregrine Falcon, renowned for its astonishing speed and aerial acrobatics, is a prized falconry bird. Reaching speeds of over 200 mph during its hunting stoop, the Peregrine is a true apex predator.

However, their high-strung temperament and demanding training requirements make them best suited for experienced falconers.

Gyrfalcon ( Falco rusticolus ): The Arctic King

The Gyrfalcon, the largest of the falcon species, commands respect with its power and agility. Originating from Arctic regions, these birds are well-adapted to harsh climates.

Falconers prize them for their fierce determination and ability to take down large prey. Due to their rarity and specialized needs, Gyrfalcons are typically reserved for highly experienced falconers.

Northern Goshawk ( Accipiter gentilis ): Master of the Woodlands

The Northern Goshawk is a formidable accipiter, known for its agility and determination in woodland environments. Their ability to navigate dense forests and pursue prey through intricate terrain makes them a challenging but rewarding falconry partner.

Their independent nature requires a falconer with patience, skill, and a deep understanding of avian behavior.

Golden Eagle ( Aquila chrysaetos ): A Majestic Symbol (Regional Regulations Apply)

The Golden Eagle, a powerful and iconic raptor, holds significant cultural importance in many regions. While falconry with Golden Eagles is practiced in some parts of the world, particularly in Central Asia, it is subject to strict regulations and is not permitted in many areas, including most of the United States. Falconers must carefully research local laws and regulations before considering working with this species.

Imprinting: Nature vs. Nurture

Imprinting is a critical concept in falconry, referring to the process by which a young bird develops a strong attachment to a particular individual or species, usually its parents.

In falconry, early exposure to humans can lead to imprinting on the falconer. This can result in a bird that is more readily bonded and easier to train.

However, imprinting can also have negative consequences, such as behavioral problems or difficulty breeding. Falconers must carefully manage the imprinting process to ensure a healthy and well-adjusted bird.

Digestive Health: Understanding Coprophagy

Understanding a raptor’s digestive system is essential for maintaining its health and well-being. Unlike many other birds, raptors consume a diet consisting primarily of whole prey, including bones, feathers, and fur.

This indigestible material is regurgitated in the form of a pellet.

The frequency and composition of these pellets provide valuable insights into the bird’s digestive health. Furthermore, some raptors exhibit coprophagy (the consumption of feces), particularly when young. This behavior is thought to aid in the development of gut flora and the absorption of essential nutrients. Falconers should be aware of these natural processes and monitor their birds accordingly.

Gear Up: Essential Falconry Equipment & Terminology

Before embarking on the journey of falconry, a solid understanding of raptors is paramount. These magnificent birds, honed by millennia of evolution, possess unique characteristics and adaptations that make them both formidable hunters and sensitive partners. Let’s delve into the world of raptors.

Falconry is not merely a hobby; it’s a commitment to an ancient art that demands respect, knowledge, and the right equipment. Gearing up for falconry requires a significant investment, both financially and in terms of learning the function and proper use of each piece of equipment. The tools of the trade are extensions of the falconer, facilitating communication and ensuring the safety and well-being of the raptor.

Core Falconry Equipment: A Detailed Overview

Each piece of falconry equipment serves a specific purpose, contributing to the safety, training, and overall well-being of the raptor. Understanding the function and proper maintenance of each item is crucial for responsible falconry.

The Hood: Master of Calm

The hood is arguably the most important piece of equipment. It acts as a blindfold, instantly calming the raptor by blocking its vision.

A well-fitted hood prevents the bird from becoming stressed, especially in unfamiliar or stimulating environments. Skilled falconers can hood and unhood their birds swiftly and smoothly, an action that becomes a conditioned cue for calmness and focus.

Jesses, Swivels, and Leashes: The Secure Connection

Jesses are leather straps permanently attached to the raptor’s legs, serving as the primary connection point. They are crafted from durable leather and designed for comfort and safety.

The swivel connects the jesses to the leash, preventing the leash from twisting and tangling as the bird moves. This small but crucial piece of equipment prevents injury and ensures the raptor remains securely tethered.

The leash provides a secure means of handling the bird, especially when perched or during initial training stages. Its length allows for some movement while preventing escape.

Perches: Comfort and Health

A proper perch is essential for a raptor’s physical and mental well-being. Different types of perches exist, each suited for specific purposes.

Block perches are typically used outdoors, providing a stable and elevated platform. Bow perches are often used indoors, their rounded shape minimizing feather damage.

Screen perches and shelf perches are additional types of perches that offer different options for the bird based on its environment and species. The perch must be kept clean and well-maintained to prevent foot problems.

Lure and Creance: Building Recall and Control

The lure is a padded piece of leather shaped to resemble quarry, used to train the raptor to return to the falconer. It’s swung in a circular motion to mimic the flight of prey, enticing the bird to chase and capture it.

Early training often involves a creance, a long, lightweight line attached to the raptor. This allows the bird to fly a controlled distance without the risk of escape, building flight muscles and reinforcing recall.

Telemetry: The Safety Net

Telemetry equipment is crucial for tracking a raptor during free flight. A small transmitter is attached to the bird, and the falconer uses a receiver to pinpoint its location. This technology is indispensable for recovering a lost bird, especially in challenging terrain.

Scales: Monitoring Weight and Health

Accurate scales are essential for monitoring a raptor’s weight. A bird’s weight is a key indicator of its health, motivation, and readiness to hunt. Small fluctuations in weight can significantly impact a bird’s performance.

Leather Gloves: Protection and Precision

Leather gloves are an essential piece of protective gear. These protect the falconer’s hand from the raptor’s sharp talons. The glove must be thick enough to provide protection.

Training Lures: Customizing the Reward

Training lures, sometimes called "tidbit lures", can be customized to resemble specific prey that the falconer is training the bird to target. These are used to reward desired behaviors and reinforce positive associations with specific types of quarry.

First Aid Kit: Preparedness for the Unexpected

A first aid kit, specifically tailored for raptor injuries, is a must-have. It should include items like antiseptic solutions, bandages, sterile saline, and hemostatic powder to address minor injuries in the field. Knowing how to use each item is vital.

The Mew: A Raptor’s Sanctuary

The mew is the housing where the raptor is kept when not being flown. It is built to stringent standards to ensure the bird’s safety and well-being.

Mew Standards: Safety, Hygiene, and Space

The mew must be secure, protecting the raptor from the elements, predators, and escape. It should be spacious enough to allow the bird to move freely without damaging its feathers.

Hygiene is paramount, and the mew must be easy to clean and disinfect. Proper ventilation is also crucial to prevent the build-up of harmful ammonia fumes. The floor should be made of a material that is easy to clean and does not harbor bacteria.

Adequate perches, a water source, and protection from extreme temperatures are also essential components of a well-designed mew.

The Training Process: Building a Bond and Honing Skills

With a solid grasp of essential equipment and a comfortable familiarity with raptor anatomy and behavior, the next critical step involves building a strong bond and honing your bird’s innate skills. This is where patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of avian psychology truly come into play.

Initial Handling and Habituation

The very first stage centers around acclimating the raptor to your presence. This is more than simply being near the bird; it’s about establishing a sense of trust.

This involves daily interaction, speaking softly, and offering food rewards from your gloved hand. These initial interactions lay the foundation for a positive association with humans.

Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the raptor. The goal is to create a calm and predictable environment where the bird feels secure.

Weight Management: The Key to Responsiveness

A raptor’s weight is critical to its training and hunting performance. Maintaining the correct weight, often referred to as the "flying weight," ensures the bird is motivated to fly and responsive to your commands.

This is achieved through careful monitoring of food intake and regular weighings, typically conducted daily. A slight reduction in weight can significantly enhance a raptor’s willingness to work.

Core Training Techniques: Building a Foundation

Once the raptor is comfortable with handling and weight management, you can begin implementing key training techniques that will underpin its hunting capabilities.

The creance is a long, lightweight line attached to the raptor’s jesses, allowing for controlled flight. This is usually one of the first steps to introducing the bird to flight and starting to manage their movement.

This stage is about building strength, confidence, and getting the raptor used to flying short distances. You’ll gradually increase the length of the creance as the bird progresses.

Lure Training: Precision Recall

Lure training is fundamental to falconry. The lure, typically a padded piece of leather resembling quarry, is swung in a circular motion to encourage the raptor to fly to it.

This exercise develops recall skills and instills the bird’s association between your signals and a food reward. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key.

Entering: The Art of Distance Flight

"Entering" refers to training the raptor to fly from a distance, either from a perch or from free flight. This involves gradually increasing the distance between you and the bird, rewarding successful flights to the lure with food.

This skill is essential for preparing the raptor for actual hunting scenarios. Entering drills will improve its navigation skills.

Developing Hunting Skills and Coordination

After mastering basic training techniques, the focus shifts to refining hunting skills. This involves simulating real hunting scenarios, such as flushing quarry or flying the raptor at a target.

Coordination between the falconer and the raptor is essential for successful hunts. The falconer must learn to read the bird’s body language and anticipate its movements, while the raptor must trust its handler’s signals.

This stage requires patience, observation, and a deep understanding of both the raptor’s capabilities and the hunting environment. As the bird becomes proficient, you can introduce it to live quarry under controlled conditions, gradually transitioning to fully independent hunting.

Raptor Care: Husbandry Essentials for a Healthy Bird

With a solid grasp of essential equipment and a comfortable familiarity with raptor anatomy and behavior, the next critical step involves ensuring that the raptor is healthy, vigorous, and capable of optimal flight performance. This is achieved through diligent husbandry practices.

This section will cover the essential aspects of raptor husbandry, including diet and nutrition, recognizing signs of illness, maintaining hygiene, and feather care. Proper husbandry is not merely a matter of compliance, but a cornerstone of ethical falconry.

Diet and Nutrition: Fueling Performance

A raptor’s diet is the foundation of its health and performance. The goal is to mimic, as closely as possible, the diet the bird would consume in the wild. This means feeding whole prey items, including bone, feathers, and organs.

This can include chicks, quail, mice, rats, rabbits, and other appropriate game birds or rodents. The specific prey items and the proportion of each should be tailored to the individual raptor’s species, size, activity level, and the time of year.

Variety is key. Regularly offering the same food item could lead to nutritional deficiencies.

It’s also crucial to consider the source of your prey. Avoid prey items from unknown sources, as they may have been exposed to pesticides or other toxins. Commercially raised prey is generally a safer option.

The weight of the food should be carefully measured and adjusted daily to maintain the raptor at its optimal flight weight. Weighing the bird regularly is essential for effective weight management.

Health and Hygiene: Proactive Care

Maintaining a raptor’s health requires a proactive approach. This involves regular health checks, a clean environment, and prompt attention to any signs of illness.

Recognizing Signs of Illness

Early detection of illness is crucial for successful treatment. Falconers must be attuned to subtle changes in their raptor’s behavior, appearance, and appetite. Some common signs of illness include:

• Changes in appetite or water intake: A sudden decrease or increase can signal a problem.
• Changes in droppings: Observe color, consistency, and frequency.
• Lethargy or decreased activity level: A normally active bird that seems unusually tired needs attention.
• Fluffed feathers: This can indicate that the bird is trying to conserve heat, a common sign of illness.
• Discharge from eyes or nares: Any abnormal discharge should be investigated.
• Difficulty breathing or changes in vocalizations: These can indicate respiratory issues.
• Abnormal perching or movement: Lameness or difficulty perching may indicate injury or illness.

Regular Health Checks

Regular health checks by a qualified avian veterinarian are essential. These check-ups can help detect underlying health issues before they become serious problems.

A veterinarian can perform a physical examination, fecal exam, bloodwork, and other diagnostic tests as needed. They can also provide guidance on preventative care, such as vaccinations and parasite control.

Maintaining a Clean Environment

A clean environment is essential for preventing the spread of disease. The mew (housing) should be cleaned regularly, removing droppings, uneaten food, and other debris.

Disinfectants safe for use around birds should be used to clean perches, food dishes, and other surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could be harmful to the raptor.

Fresh water should always be available, and food should be stored properly to prevent contamination.

Feather Care: Ensuring Flight Efficiency

A raptor’s feathers are essential for flight, insulation, and display. Maintaining healthy feathers is crucial for the bird’s overall well-being and hunting ability.

Regular bathing opportunities should be provided. Raptors will often bathe themselves in a shallow dish of water. This helps to remove dirt and debris and keeps the feathers in good condition.

Misting the raptor with water can also help to maintain feather health. Inspect the feathers regularly for damage, such as breaks, frays, or missing feathers.

Minor damage can sometimes be repaired by "imping," a traditional falconry technique of grafting new feathers onto the existing feather shaft. More significant feather damage may require professional veterinary attention.

Providing a well-maintained mew with appropriate perches will also help to prevent feather damage. The perches should be smooth and free of sharp edges that could damage the feathers.

By prioritizing these aspects of raptor care, falconers ensure the health, vigor, and optimal flight performance of their birds.

Raptor Care: Husbandry Essentials for a Healthy Bird
With a solid grasp of essential equipment and a comfortable familiarity with raptor anatomy and behavior, the next critical step involves ensuring that the raptor is healthy, vigorous, and capable of optimal flight performance. This is achieved through diligent husbandry practices.

This section will explore the legal and ethical framework that governs falconry, highlighting the responsibilities falconers must uphold to ensure the welfare of their birds and the integrity of the sport.

Laws, Ethics, and Responsibilities: The Falconer’s Code

Falconry, steeped in tradition and demanding significant expertise, is not merely a hobby; it is a deeply regulated activity governed by a complex interplay of federal and state laws. Aspiring falconers must navigate a rigorous process of licensing, adhere to strict regulations, and embrace a profound ethical responsibility towards both their raptors and the environment.

Navigating the Legal Landscape: Licensing and Regulations

Falconry is regulated at both the state and federal levels. The primary aim of these regulations is to protect wild raptor populations and ensure that falconry is practiced responsibly and sustainably.

Permits: The Gateway to Falconry

Obtaining the necessary permits is the first, and arguably most critical, step in becoming a falconer. The specific requirements vary by state, but generally involve passing a comprehensive examination, demonstrating adequate facilities for housing a raptor (the mew), and securing a sponsor – an experienced falconer willing to mentor the applicant.

Adhering to Specific Regulations

Once licensed, falconers must adhere to a detailed set of regulations. These regulations govern various aspects of the practice, including:

• Species allowed for falconry: Not all raptor species are permitted for falconry. Regulations typically prioritize species that are relatively abundant and resilient in the wild.

• Capture and possession: Regulations dictate how and when raptors can be captured from the wild, as well as restrictions on the transfer or sale of birds.

• Hunting seasons and quarry: Falconers must comply with established hunting seasons and regulations regarding the types of quarry that can be pursued.

• Reporting requirements: Falconers are typically required to maintain detailed records of their raptor’s health, hunting activities, and any changes in possession.

State Wildlife Agencies: Guardians of Conservation

State wildlife agencies play a pivotal role in regulating falconry within their respective jurisdictions. They are responsible for:

• Administering licensing programs.
• Enforcing falconry regulations.
• Monitoring raptor populations.
• Providing education and outreach to falconers and the public.

S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): Federal Oversight

The USFWS provides federal oversight of falconry through the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and other relevant legislation. The USFWS works in partnership with state wildlife agencies to ensure consistent and effective regulation of falconry across the country.

Migratory Bird Treaty Act: A Cornerstone of Protection

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) is a cornerstone of bird conservation in the United States. This federal law prohibits the taking, killing, or possessing of migratory birds, including raptors, without a permit.

It provides the legal framework for regulating falconry and ensuring that it is practiced in a manner that does not harm wild bird populations.

Roles within the Falconry Community

Falconry is not a solitary pursuit. It involves a community of individuals with defined roles and responsibilities.

The Falconer: Steward of the Raptor

The falconer is the central figure, responsible for the daily care, training, and hunting of their raptor. They are also responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

The Sponsor: Guiding the Next Generation

An experienced falconer acts as a sponsor, mentoring aspiring falconers through the initial stages of learning and licensing. The sponsor provides guidance on all aspects of falconry, from raptor care and training to hunting techniques and ethical considerations.

Levels of Licensing: A Progression of Expertise

Falconry licensing typically involves a tiered system, reflecting increasing levels of knowledge and experience:

• Apprentice Falconer: The entry-level license, requiring close supervision from a sponsor.

• General Falconer: A more advanced license, granting greater independence and allowing the possession of a wider range of raptor species.

• Master Falconer: The highest level of license, signifying extensive experience and expertise in falconry.

The Veterinarian: Ensuring Raptor Health

A veterinarian knowledgeable in avian medicine is essential for providing medical care to falconry raptors. Regular health checks and prompt treatment of any injuries or illnesses are crucial for maintaining the bird’s well-being.

The Ethical Compass: Responsible Practices

Beyond legal requirements, ethical considerations are paramount in falconry. A true falconer adheres to a strict code of conduct that prioritizes the well-being of both the raptor and the quarry.

Responsible Hunting Practices

Ethical hunting practices are fundamental to falconry. This includes:

• Hunting only quarry that is legal to take.
• Ensuring that the raptor is in optimal condition for hunting.
• Minimizing the stress and suffering of the quarry.
• Respecting the environment and avoiding disturbance to non-target species.

Prioritizing Welfare: The Cornerstone of Ethical Falconry

The welfare of the raptor must always be the top priority. This includes:

• Providing proper housing, nutrition, and healthcare.
• Training the raptor using humane and ethical methods.
• Avoiding any practices that could cause unnecessary stress or harm.
• Recognizing and addressing any signs of illness or injury promptly.

Falconry, at its best, is a symbiotic partnership between human and raptor, built on respect, understanding, and a deep commitment to ethical practices.

Falconry and Conservation: A Partnership for the Future

With a solid grasp of essential equipment and a comfortable familiarity with raptor anatomy and behavior, the next critical step involves ensuring that the raptor is healthy, vigorous, and capable of optimal flight performance. This is achieved through diligent husbandry practices.

Falconry is often perceived as a traditional hunting method, but it also plays a significant role in modern raptor conservation efforts. The dedication of falconers to their birds and the deep understanding of raptor biology fostered by the practice has led to crucial contributions in research, rehabilitation, and habitat preservation. This section explores how falconry acts as a partnership for the future of these magnificent birds.

The Falconer’s Contribution to Conservation

Falconers, through their close interaction with raptors, possess invaluable insights into their health, behavior, and ecological needs. This intimate knowledge translates directly into conservation benefits in several key areas:

• Data Collection and Research: Falconers are often at the forefront of gathering data on raptor populations, migration patterns, and the impact of environmental changes. Their observations, meticulously recorded, contribute significantly to scientific understanding.
• Rehabilitation and Rescue: Injured or orphaned raptors often find refuge in the care of falconers. Their expertise in handling and tending to these birds can be critical for successful rehabilitation and eventual release back into the wild.
• Habitat Preservation: Because the art of falconry relies on healthy, robust wild bird populations, it is fundamentally built upon the notion of environmental stewardship. Falconers actively support habitat preservation initiatives to ensure the long-term survival of raptor populations and their prey.
• Captive Breeding Programs: The skills of falconers in raptor care are invaluable in captive breeding programs, such as those for the Peregrine Falcon, which have helped to restore dwindling populations.
• Combating Avian Predation Falconers’ raptor training can assist farmers by reducing the impact of harmful avian predators on livestock through methods such as bird scaring which provides a more humane and environmentally sound form of pest control.

These contributions are not merely anecdotal; they are backed by years of experience and a genuine commitment to the well-being of these majestic birds.

The North American Falconers Association (NAFA): A Conservation Cornerstone

The North American Falconers Association (NAFA) stands as a testament to the collective power of falconers in promoting raptor conservation. As the largest organization of its kind in North America, NAFA provides a platform for falconers to:

• Share Knowledge and Best Practices: NAFA facilitates the exchange of information among its members, ensuring that the most effective techniques for raptor care, training, and conservation are widely disseminated.
• Advocate for Responsible Falconry: NAFA actively works to promote ethical and responsible falconry practices, advocating for regulations that protect both raptors and their prey.
• Support Conservation Initiatives: NAFA supports a variety of conservation projects, funding research, habitat restoration, and educational programs that benefit raptors and their ecosystems.
• Promote Public Awareness: NAFA educates the public about falconry and its role in conservation, dispelling misconceptions and fostering a greater appreciation for raptors and their importance to the environment.

NAFA’s commitment to conservation is not merely a matter of lip service; it is deeply ingrained in the organization’s mission and activities.

A Symbiotic Relationship

The relationship between falconry and conservation is symbiotic. Falconers, driven by their passion for raptors, contribute significantly to their well-being, while conservation efforts ensure the long-term sustainability of the practice. This partnership is essential for the future of these magnificent birds, ensuring that they continue to grace our skies for generations to come.

So, there you have it – a glimpse into the world of falconry and a breakdown of how do you become a falconer. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey. If you’re passionate about birds of prey and dedicated to their well-being, then maybe, just maybe, you’ve found your calling. Good luck!