BECOMING A FALCONER IN ALABAMA
Regardless of what sparked your interest in falconry, we are so glad it did! Falconry is a sport like no other, where you and a wild bird of prey become hunting partners- something that isn't to be taken lightly. And while becoming a falconer can take months - or even years - to accomplish, it is well worth the journey!
To become a falconer in Alabama:
-you must be at least 12 years old. Anyone under the age of 18 needs a parent’s or guardian’s permission.
-you should decide if you have the time, energy, space and other necessary requirements to train, care for and hunt with a bird of prey. This is no small commitment on your part and a substantial investment of time and money.
-you must have a sponsor who is at least a 2nd year general falconer. Your apprenticeship will last for at least 2 years, so make sure it is a falconer that you are willing to learn from and enjoy being around!
-you must complete an application for a permit and send it in with a non-refundable $50 application fee to the Alabama Department of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Once a permit is issued, it is renewed every 3 years for $50. You can get your application packet here.
-you must pass a 100-question general falconry knowledge exam with an 80% or better. If you do not pass the first time, the test can be readministered at a later date.
-you must have your mews and required equipment inspected. Presently this is done by Brandon Earls of the Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To contact Brandon, email him at brandon.earls@dcnr.alabama.gov.
To obtain a sponsor:
-get in the woods with as many falconers as you can. Most falconers are more than willing to take tagalongs. A potential sponsor wants to know a future apprentice is serious about pursuing the sport, and being willing to put in the time to join hunts as often as possible is a great way to do that.
-join the AHA Facebook group. This gives you access to most of the falconers in the state, and you can find the ones in your area to tag along on a hunt.
-study the Alabama Falconry Regulations as well as books on falconry, especially hunting with a red-tailed hawk. Websites such as www.themodernapprentice.com are very informative. This also proves your commitment to becoming a falconer. Once you have a sponsor and/or become a member of the AHA, you can request a free study guide and practice test from us. You can become a member of the AHA here!
-attend AHA functions, such as the picnic in June, the Trap-a-Palooza in September, and the Field Meet in February. Details will be posted each year on this website and our Facebook page.