Modern Falconry

Modern day falconry has changed only slightly from ancient times. The techniques have been passed down over the centuries through the training of apprentices by experienced falconers and by reading old and current literature. Falconry is heavily regulated by state and federal wildlife agencies. To become an apprentice falconer, one must be sponsored by a licensed general or master class falconer, pass a state exam, and pass equipment and facility inspections. Falconry is practiced today by very devoted people with a passion for hunting with birds of prey. Training and caring for these birds is a daily responsibility. Love of birds, the desire to enter into a close relationship with a wild bird, and accompanying a bird into the field to witness the hunt first-hand are all reasons people pursue falconry today. Falconry is a lifestyle- not a hobby. If you wish to pursue your interest in raptors but do not have the time, resources, or the desire to hunt with hawks, you may want to consider volunteering at a nature center, wildlife rehab center, zoo, or other organization which handles raptors. Many birding clubs offer activities involving raptor study and hawk watching.

 

To learn more, contact your state's Department of Natural Resources or check with your local library for the following titles:

As The Falcon Her Bells, Philip Glasier, Heineman: 1963.
A Rage for Falcons, Stephen Bodio, Pruett: 1984.
Eagles, Hawks, & Falcons of the World, L & D Amadon Brown, Wellfleet Press: 1968.
North American Falconry and Hunting Hawks, Beebe & Webster, privately published:1964 PetersonÕs Field Guide to Hawks, Clarke & Wheeler, Houghton Mifflin: 1987.
Understanding the Bird of Prey, Dr. Nick Fox, Hancock House:1995.