Ok so you read my summary of things to consider before becoming a Falconer and you are still interested! Good for you, you are now ready for an exciting adventure into a sport that will reward you more than any other in my opinion.

1. Contact the Special Permit Unit of your state and request a falconry packet. The packet will include an application form, information on the test, and Federal and State regulations.

2. Study for the test. Here are a couple reading suggestions to help make sure you pass. The others may be ordered from Northwoods, Ltd, Mike’s Falconry Supplies, or Western Sporting Publications. Pass the Test!

3. Secure a sponsor. An apprentice must, by federal law, be sponsored by a general or master falconer. This is just one of several excellent reasons to join the your states Falconry Associations. Sponsors are looking for apprentices that have done their homework, passed their test, are willing to follow directions, love raptors and are willing to hunt with them. Being a Falconry Association member is an important step in the process of proving to them that you are serious. Your prospective sponsor will expect you to have a hunting license before he/she will agree to sponsor you and you must have a hunting license before you start hunting with your bird. Note: Hunting is the difference between being a falconer and a "pet-keeper." One of the worst things that can be said about someone in this sport is that they are a "pet-keeper."

4. Obtain/construct your facilities and equipment. You must, by law have a mews (house), large enough so that your bird will have freedom of movement. Generally an 8' x 8' x 8' cube is sufficient for a free-lofted red tail hawk. If you include a weathering area, it must also meet state and federal requirements. In addition, you must have the following equipment: Aylmeri jesses, leash, swivel, outdoor perch, scale capable of reading 1/2 ounce (15 grams) or better, and a bath pan. Other items not required by law, but necessary, are a gauntlet (glove), hawk box (Giant Hood) and a hunting vest.

5. Have your sponsor inspect your facilities and equipment. If he/she determines you are ready, send your application to the special permits unit.

6. Have your inspection. Special Permits will then forward your application and check to the US Fish and Wildlife office in your state. They will assign you a permit number and return to Special Permits, who will then issue your license. It may take a while for your license to be issued, so be patient. This is a good reason to take the test early in the year. This way you don't get caught waiting for your license to be issued after trapping season has come in.

7. Congratulations! Once you have your license to learn to be a falconer, you can trap your bird. Your sponsor will assist you. You may trap a hawk only during the trapping season, which runs from September 1st through December 31st. You are allowed to take an immature redtail or an immature red-shouldered hawk or a kestrel of any age. When you trap your bird, you must, within 5 days, complete form 3-186-A (Migratory Bird Acquisition/Disposition Report) which was sent to you along with your license.

Get out there and enjoy the greatest sport God has blessed this earth with. If you are still in need of supplies to get started I've compiled a small list of my favorite falconry webshops.