Falconry

Falconry (occasionally referred to as 'falconeering') is the art or sport of training raptors (birds of prey) to hunt or pursue game.

Falconry Around the World

Falconry is currently practiced in many countries around the world.

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In the United States, falconry is legal in all states except Hawaii. A falconer must have state and federal licenses to practice the sport. Among North American raptors, some of the most popular birds used in falconry are the peregrine falcon, the prairie falcon, the goshawk, and the Harris's Hawk.

Related Topics:
Hawaii - Peregrine falcon - Prairie falcon - Goshawk - Harris's Hawk

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Until recently, all peregrines used for falconry in the U. S. were captive-bred from the progeny of falcons taken before the U. S. Endangered Species Act was enacted. Peregrine falcons were removed from the United States' endangered species list in 1999 due largely to the effort and knowledge of falconers. Finally, after years of close work with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, a limited take of wild Peregrines was allowed in 2004, the first wild Peregrines taken specifically for falconry in over 30 years.

Related Topics:
Endangered Species Act - Fish and Wildlife Service

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In the UK, falconry is permitted without a special licence, but only using captive-bred birds. All birds are ringed and registered, and can be DNA tested to verify their origins.

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In Australia, although falconry is not specifically illegal, it is illegal to keep any type of bird of prey in captivity. The only exemption is when the birds are kept for purposes of rehabilitation (for which a licence must still be held), circumstances under which the practice can be an effective tool used in returning a bird to health.

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Owls and eagles are sometimes used in North American and European falconry. In Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia, the golden eagle is used exclusively, hunting game as large as fox and wolf.

Related Topics:
Owls - Eagles - Golden eagle - Fox - Wolf

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