Applying for the Apprentice License
- Pass the falconry examination with a score of 80% or higher. See Registering for the Falconry Examination below.
- Have a current year hunting license.
- Complete and submit the Falconry License Application and required documents (an application form and required documents are provided after passing the exam).
How do I apply for a falconry license?
Application for, or renewal of, a falconry license, must be made on forms provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). In order to be issued a falconry license, an applicant must: 1. Be a resident of New York State 2. Be at least 14 years of age 3.
What is a falconry license in New York State?
Falconry License. This license authorizes a New York State resident to participate in the sport of falconry. Falconry includes hunting small game with a trained raptor such as a falcon, hawk or owl. The license allows a person to obtain, buy, sell, barter, possess and train raptors for falconry purposes.
What are the requirements to become a falconer?
Falconers must meet the building facility (MEWS) requirements for raptors. (Leaves DEC website) falconry. Pass the falconry examination with a score of 80% or higher. See Registering for the Falconry Examination below. Have a current year hunting license.
What birds are used for falconry in New York?
THE BIRDS USED IN FALCONRY Three taxonomic groups of raptors are most commonly trained for falconry in New York State; falcons, accipiters, and buteos. Falcons are adapted for the high-speed aerial pursuit of birds.
What is the bond between a falconer and a bird?
The bond between falconer and bird is a lifelong, deeply treasured relationship. It takes years to reach this state. 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.
What is required to hunt raptor in New York?
A required legal step to hunt with a raptor in New York State is possession of a valid small game license.
How long does it take to get a falconer license?
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 6-8 months - or longer.
When is the DEC test?
Test offered twice a year. Second Friday of April and August each year at DEC regional offices statewide.
How has falconry changed?
Falconry equipment, training methods, and hunting techniques have changed very little throughout the centuries. Advances in technology have supplied the contemporary sport with radio telemetry. Miniature transmitters, affixed to the legs, nowadays assist the falconer in tracking raptors that wander too far for the falconer to hear their bells. But historical methods of housing, conditioning, hunting, and meeting proper dietary requirements are tried and true, leaving little need or room for improvement.
What are the three types of raptors that are most commonly trained for falconry?
Three taxonomic groups of raptors are most commonly trained for falconry in New York State; falcons, accipiters, and buteos. Falcons are adapted for the high-speed aerial pursuit of birds. Narrow, pointed wings and a streamlined configuration during flight enable these raptors to overtake pheasants, ducks and quail while hunting on the wing. New York's most abundant falcon is the American kestrel, a small, dove-sized falcon, common to open farmland. Though best adapted for hunting mice and small birds, kestrels provide the novice falconer with valuable training experience, which he or she may then later apply to the training of larger merlins, prairie falcons, peregrines, and gyrfalcons, as well as to a variety of captive-bred hybrids and exotic species.
Why is falconry important?
First, individuals who are interested in alternative hunting methods have found that falconry affords them greater recreational opportunities. An increasing human population has made it difficult for hunting enthusiasts to find accessible land to hunt. Falconry is a field sport which can be practiced on smaller parcels of land, and it is easier to acquire permission to hunt with a raptor then when employing conventional hunting methods such as guns or archery.
What is the purpose of the falconer manual?
The purpose of the manual is not to discourage the prospective falconer, but rather to inform the individual that there are some serious undertakings involved in the process. Becoming a falconer requires long hours of training and a long-term commitment from the individual. Having a trained raptor is not the same as having a domestic pet. You cannot just leave it with a neighbor to watch when you go away. This manual contains information such as "Do's and Don'ts," prices on necessary equipment, book sources, equipment vendors, and more. It is suggested that you read this manual not only once, but two or three times until you fully understand the responsibilities you are about to undertake. If, after reading and understanding the information in this manual, you still wish to continue, it is suggested that you follow the instructions provided here. We hope that this manual is helpful to you and answers most of your questions.
What is falconry hunting?
Falconry is the sport of hunting game with trained birds of prey (raptors). Falcons, hawks, eagles and owls have evolved to select certain prey species when hunting for food in the wild. The practice of falconry applies the natural predatory behavior of these birds in taking a wide var iety of quarry as part of a cooperative hunting effort with the falconer.
How old do you have to be to get a falconry license?
In order to be issued a falconry license, an applicant must: . 1. Be a resident of New York State 2. Be at least 14 years of age 3. Pass the Department's falconry examination by receiving a score of 80% or better 4. Possess a valid New York State hunting license authorizing the hunting of small game 5.
What happens if you fail the Falconry exam?
6. If you fail the falconry exam, you may reapply for the next exam.
How long do you have to be a sponsor for a falconer?
Find a sponsor. New falconers are required to have a sponsor for at least the first two years. New falconers are called Apprentices and serve under either a General or Master class falconer.
How to get a falconer to talk to you?
Find a falconer who will be willing to talk to you. Call them and make an appointment to go see them. Keep the appointment and be prepared to spend considerable time asking questions. Most falconers are skeptical of persons who only have a passing interest. Be prepared to demonstrate your commitment to falconry by the work you have already done studying and reading. If possible, or invited, go hunting with them.
What is NAFA in the US?
NAFA North American Falconers Association. NAFA. Cont act your state wildlife department or agency Each state (US and Mexico) and province (Canada) has slightly different requirements. Ask them for information about falconry. Also ask for a current list of currently licensed/permitted falconers in your state.
What is the minimum score required to get a bird permit?
The exam consists of questions designed to test your knowledge of birds of prey, raptor biology, health care of the birds, laws and more. You must pass the examination with a score of 80% or better. This is a requirement of current federal and state regulations.
How old do you have to be to be an apprentice hunter?
Federal regulations (United States) require that you be at least 12 years of age. Some states require you to be older. The minimum age is set by your state. Some potential sponsors require an aspiring apprentice hunt with them for a much as a full year before they will consider sponsorship.
Who inspects wildlife equipment?
It too will be inspected by state wildlife officials or official representatives of your state wildlife agency. These are requirements of current federal and state regulations.
Do you need a permit to get a bird?
Receive your permits, licenses and other documents before attempting to acquire your first bird. You must have all necessary permits, licenses, etc. before acquiring a bird.
What is the liquor licensing authority?
One of the State Liquor Authority's main functions is issuing licenses and permits. The licensing review process is dependent on the type of application or permit applied for, the current volume of applications, and the completeness and accuracy of the application submitted. Any deficiencies in your application may result in delays or disapproval of your application.
What is an on premises license?
On-Premises Licenses. On-Premises Licensees can sell and serve alcohol by the glass for consumption on the premises. All on-premises licensees are required to sell food at all hours of operation. Apply for an On-Premises License.
How long does it take to get a temporary liquor license?
Temporary permits are processed in approximately 30 days, and are valid for 90 days.
Can a manufacturer sell alcohol?
Manufacturers can produce alcoholic beverages and wholesale the alcoholic beverages they produce. Wholesalers can sell alcohol at wholesale to New York State licensed wholesalers and retailers.
Why is falconry important?
The ethics of practicing quality falconry are an important part of a falconer's every day life. Because all raptors are protected by state, federal, and international law, all potential falconers must obtain the necessary permits and licenses before acquiring a hawk or practicing falconry.
What is falconry in science?
What is Falconry? Falconry can be defined as the taking of wild quarry in its natural state and habitat by means of a trained raptor. This ancient art is a very demanding endeavor, requiring a serious dedication of time and energy from the falconer. On November 16, 2010 the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) ...
How long does it take to become a master falconer?
Even fewer are willing to make the necessary sacrifices. Time. Falconry is not an "overnight" achievement. Becoming a Master falconer takes at least seven years; finishing your apprenticeship alone will take at least two.
What do you need to feed a raptor?
Spend on food, shelter, equipment, veterinary costs, permits and fees, and travel. To keep it healthy, you must feed your raptor only fresh raw meat, preferably the exact same whole birds or mammals they would catch in the wild on their own. Housing and equipment requirements are mandated by state and federal law.
When did the falconry become an intangible cultural heritage?
On November 16, 2010 the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added falconry to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritages of Humanity. Here's an overview for those who want to know more.
Can you falconry if you can't keep paperwork straight?
If you can't keep your paperwork straight, even in triplicate (three copies), don't consider falconry. Most people immediately think of the cost of acquiring a hawk, but the price of the bird is only the beginning, assuming you can purchase one.
Why did CDFW discontinue the falconry exam?
FALCONRY EXAM UPDATE: CDFW has discontinued the falconry examination due to concerns about the answers being distributed broadly. Since then, we have evaluated several approaches for revising the exam. After careful thought, we decided to form an internal team of experts to make these revisions and are in the process of drafting a new exam utilizing available resources. Due to the current COVID-19 situation, we are unsure about the timing for reopening our offices and administering the new exam. As new information becomes available we will post it on this web page.
How old do you have to be to get a raptor license?
Issued to any person at least 12 years of age, in possession of raptors to take game or nongame birds or mammals. Must also possess a hunting license.
License Details
- Fee
The cost of the falconry license is $40.
Renewing & Reporting
- License Renewal
Licenses expire on December 31 every 5th year after the license was issued. A renewal form will be sent by mail prior to the license expiration date noted on the license. If a license renewal form is not received at least 2-weeks prior to the expiration date, please contact us. - Annual Reporting
Complete the Falconry Annual Report Form (PDF) and submit by December 31 each year. Required for all licensed falconers.
Laws & Regulations
- Environmental Conservation Law
Please visit New York State Legislature(Leaves DEC website) 1. 11-1001 Definitions 2. 11-1003 Falconry License 3. 11-1007 Department authority 4. 11-1009 Prohibitions - New York Codes Rules and Regulations
1. Part 173: Falconry(Leaves DEC Website) 2. Part 175: Special Licenses and Permits - Definitions and Uniform Procedures(Leaves DEC Website) 3. Part 2 - Section 2.25(f): Hunting Upland Game Birds(Leaves DEC Website) 4. Part 2 - Section 2.30(e): Migratory Game Bird Open Seasons(Leav…
Contact Information
- DEC Special Licenses Unit Address: 625 Broadway, Albany NY 12233 E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 518-402-8985
Other Resources and Information
- NYS Falconry Association(Leaves DEC website) - statewide association for prospective and current falconers.