Look at this article!

I will be following this story and sending updates, such as pictures and maps. http://audubonportland.org/issues/endangered-species/peregrine-falcon/portland-peregrines/fremont

Look at the this amazing Red Tail Hawk hunt!

A super neat video!

Basic Falconry #2: Regulations

There are lots of different rules and regulations that all falconer must follow one of the many the rules mentioned include, that to even trap a bird, they must first pass an exam. These exams are given out by, the Fish and Wildlife of that state. Each state has a different exam, but generally it tests: knowledge of raptors, the care and first aid for raptors, identifying birds. It asks questions on the few, well-known falconry books, to check that the “tester” has read them/ done their research. Assuming the test is passed at an 80% score, the falconer must now find him/herself a sponsor.

Click for Offical State Laws

Basic Falconry #1: Levels

One of the basic concepts of falconry that everyone should know is about levels/ ranks. Apprentice is the first level, and each rank gives you new freedom and the opportunity to fly different birds. As an apprentice you are only permitted to catch and fly a passage (a raptor in its first migration) Red-Tailed Hawk or an American kestrel. After (a bare minimum) of 2 years of flying either of these birds you have the opportunity to become a General, they must be 18 years old to become a General, the sponsor writes in to the State to confirm that the apprentice’s abilities are General worthy. As a General falconer, they are able to hunt with the following birds: Merlins, European Kestrel, Alpomado Falcon, Prairie Falcon, Peregrine Falcon, Saker Falcon, Gyrfalcon, Lanner Falcon, Harris’ Hawks, Great Horned Owl, Osprey, Sharp-Skinned Hawk, Red-Shouldered Hawk, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Coopers’ Hawk, Swainson’s Hawk, and Ferruginous Hawk. These birds are not legal in all states and the are restrictions on which (age-wise) hawks you can take. Again this is all depended on the states laws. Also as a General, they are permitted to have two birds where the Apprentice can only have one. Lastly the highest rank of falconry is a Master Falconer. To become a Master falconer, they must have 7 years of experience in all, and 5 years at General level. As a Master they may fly Goshawks (one of the largest birds of prey) and Golden Eagles. Also as a Master they are expected to take on a Apprentice (this is called sponsership...) 

Welcome to Falconry...

What is falconry? It is a wonderful question really, many people have seen it (movies/TV shows) but are unaware that it is a sport, or even that it has a name. The purpose of this blog is to inform the uninformed to the wonderous, and complex world of Falconry.