Falconry license

It is an incredible process and achievement, full of challenges and rewards. But becoming a falconer must be done with great forethought and readiness.

It requires seriousness and maturity. It requires considerable time and resources. It is not to be taken lightly. It is not a hobby. It is a lifestyle.

And you must be ready and willing to accept this responsibility, without fail. The life and well being of your bird, as well as your reputation as a falconer, depend on it. The initial process of testing and licensing can take up to months - or longer. If you are prepared to devote the time, energy, and resources necessary to become a falconer, then read on…. This is arranged regionally, by contacting your regional DEC office.

Hunting is your focus if you intend to become a falconer. You trap, train, maintain and hunt the raptor you choose to fly. If actively hunting wild quarry is not appealing to you, then falconry is not for you. Of all our field sports, falconry is the only one that uses a trained wild animal.

The hawks and falcons that are utilized are a valuable part of the Commonwealth's wildlife. The competent falconer recognizes this and takes care to follow sound conservation principles in pursuit of the sport. In fact, the very existence of falconry depends upon the continued welfare of the birds of prey.

The casual and uniformed novice, by attempting to satisfy a passing fancy may, through ignorance or neglect, harm the birds and cast discredit on the sport itself. As the Pennsylvania Game Commission manages all wild birds and mammals within the Commonwealth and oversees hunting seasons and bag limits, the authority and responsibility to oversee falconry has been vested by state law with the agency. Due to the large number of requests that the Game Commission receives regarding falconry, this website has been developed to outline basic information about this activity.

It is evident that these inquiries are often prompted by recent news media coverage about falconry, much of which is inaccurate or exaggerated and without offering information about the commitment required.

While some individuals may have seen a trained raptor in flight, few are acquainted with any falconers, and almost none have any idea about the time, effort, money and facilities required to become a falconer. We ask that you read this information carefully, and then examine your own circumstances with regards to being able to make the commitment necessary not only for your enjoyment, but with regards to the health and welfare of the falcon you seek to fly.

Before most falconers will aid anyone newly attracted to the sport, which is a requirement of law and regulation, they will require proof of serious, dedicated interest. Experienced falconers, such as those who are members of the Pennsylvania Falconry and Hawk Trust, understand that anything less will only bring grief to both novice and hawk, and that birds which fall into the hands of those who are not deeply motivated should be restored to the wild without delay.

You will be guided by your sponsor during this time where they will help you understand the proper techniques that you will need to care for a raptor in captivity. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department has much of the licensing information on their website at Falconry Licensing Process but we are providing a quick outline that will hopefully answer some of your questions about the process:. Please remember we are training a wild raptor to use its instincts to hunt with us.

It requires a serious commitment on your part maintain your bird's health and well-being. You will find a number of vendors that will help you with purchasing the books and supplies listed on our Vendors Page. The vendors are well known to have books, supplies and packages to help the potential apprentice:. When you are ready to become further involved in this rewarding, yet challenging sport, please join our club via this link: Join us.

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