Falconry License

DylanD

DylanD

New member
How old do you have to be to get a falconry license? If you have ever read My Side of the Mountain or Frightfuls Mountain or the other ones. They are pretty awsome books and it got me thinkin about doin that falconry stuff. I watched it on TV and they didnt even really needed to hunt they just had to walk and kick up rabbits. Also is it hard or easy?




DylanD
 
Dylan, it could vary on a state by state basis. When I first got my permit it was 16, but that was about 48 yrs ago. The best advice I could give you is to go to your Fish & Game Commission www.pgc.state.pa.us . They set the rules, process the applications, administer the tests, inspect your facilities, etc.

Falconry is a very old sport. Your library will list about 60 books written on the subject, some going back to the 14th century. Before you apply for a license, you need to learn about what it is you are about to commit yourself to. This is not a "pastime" activity. It is a full time job, but the personal satisfaction is priceless.

You will need a sponsor. This must be a licensed falconer from from your state. He must certify that you have received training, have proper equipment, and are prepared to own a bird of prey. Contact a falconry Association in your state. They will help get you started. http://www.americanfalconry.com/findsponsor.html
 
I will second Nasa on this one. It is not a pasttime. It is full time. A lot of work. I was accepted for apprenticeship from a local Falconer. I had the oppurtunity to squirrrel hunt with his Harris Hawks. It was fun. I thought, "hey I can do this". He gave me two books to read before he would go any farther. I realized real fast, I did not have the time or fortitude to do it. Your first bird has to be caught from the wild. You have to train it. You never tame it. Every time you release the bird, there is the possibility it will not come back. The Feds have the right to come inspect your facility any time they choose. If it is not up to standards, they take your bird and you loose your license. Your mentor is putting his license on the line to accept you.

Find a local falconer and go with him. You will enjoy it immensely. You may just be cut out for it.
 
Ya I have also thought about how sweet it would be too do this, but then I was brought too the realization of how difficult it would actually be and how time consuming and the cost! Though if you had the time it would be a great sport to hunt with a falcon and watch your bird take down a duck or rabbit!


Hunter
 
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