Here you can find an answers to common questions about falconry, including topics such as licensing, bird ownership, and recommended literature that will help you gain knowledge on falconry apprenticeship and sponsorship.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I have to be to apply for an apprentice falconry license?

The minimum age to apply for an apprentice falconry license is 12 years.

What kind of bird am I allowed to have as an apprentice?

Federal and state law limits you to a red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, or the American kestrel. All except the kestrel must be trapped as a passage (immature bird).

How many raptors can I have?

As an apprentice falconer, you are only allowed to possess one raptor at a time. If you lose this raptor, you can only replace it once per season. A general class falconer may possess two raptors, a master class falconer, three.

What kind of hunting license do I need?

You need to purchase a Sportsman's license.

What is the best choice of raptor for an apprentice?

A good bird to start with is the red-tailed hawk. It is the best choice for the apprentice falconer who has access to land that holds cottontails and/or squirrels. Even waterfowl and upland game birds can be taken by this versatile species. Kestrels should be left to the more experienced falconer.

What steps do I need to take to become an apprentice falconer?

First, find a sponsor. Sponsors are falconers of either master or general class. Contact the MDWFP using the contact information below, and we will try to assist you in contacting one. Second, take and pass your falconry exam. Next, have your facilities and equipment inspected. Finally, get your permit, trap a bird, and start your two-year apprenticeship.

How do I find a sponsor?

First and foremost, find a way to spend time with other falconers. For some, this is easier than for others. It depends on your location and personality. Falconers are spread thin everywhere in the contiguous lower 48 states, so if you live in an outer-lying area, you might have to do some driving.

Please understand, you have to take the initiative. Spend an entire season flushing game for current falconers. Study how they handle and manage their birds. Show them that you are a serious student of falconry and want to learn more. If you do this for an entire hunting season, you will likely have a sponsor. Friendship first, sponsorship second.

How long is an apprenticeship?

You can apply for your general class falconry license after completing two, four-month-long hunting seasons, or basically two years.

What books do you recommend I read?

The best book for pre-apprentices is North American Falconry and Hunting Hawks by Hal Webster and Frank Beebe. After reading that, a few other good books to have are:

  • Buteos and Bushytails by Gary Brewer
  • The Red-Tailed Hawk: A complete guide to training and hunting North America's most versatile game hawk by Liam McGranaghan
  • The Falconer's Apprentice: A Guide to Training the Red-Tailed Hawk by William C. Oakes
  • Falconry Equipment by Bryan A. Kimsey and Jim Hodge

See the Falconry Literature section on the Falconry Program page.

What should I study for my test?

In addition to the books listed above, your mentor and the falconry coordinator can help provide you with additional study materials.

Contact Information

MDWFP Falconry Program Contact