Meet Legal Requirements
3-6 monthsComplete apprenticeship, pass exam, build approved mews, and obtain state and federal permits.
Beginner3-6 months
First Hawk Acquisition Guide
Learn first hawk acquisition from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
apprentice falconerswildlife permit holders
Workflow
Select Appropriate Species
1 weekChoose passage red-tailed hawk or kestrel suitable for beginner skill and local quarry.
Trap and Transport
1 dayUse bal-chatri or dho-gaza trap ethically, hood immediately, and transport in dark crate.
Initial Mews Setup
2 daysHouse bird in approved mews with bath, perches, and security before manning begins.
Tools Used
Checklist
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Planning
Prep
Baseline
Quality
Tracking
Reference Materials
Permit RequirementsStandard
US falconry requires state license plus MBTA falconry permit — rules vary internationally.
Mews SizeFormula
Minimum floor area often 8×8 ft for hawk; height sufficient for tail clearance on perch.
Beginner SpeciesTable
Recommended first birds.
| Species | Quarry | Temperament |
|---|---|---|
| Red-tail | Rabbit/squirrel | Forgiving |
| Kestrel | Small game | Sensitive |
| Harris hawk | Group hunt | Social |
Raptor Injury
Talons and beak pierce skin — kevlar glove minimum when handling.
Escape Risk
Unhooded untrained bird will flee — always secure jesses before opening mews.
Zoonotic Disease
Wear gloves cleaning mews — psittacosis and other pathogens possible.
Safety Notes
- Never handle raptors without permit where required by law.
- Keep emergency vet contact for raptor specialists before acquisition.