The mission of the US Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Pacific Region
Migratory Birds and Habitat Programs

Falconry Permits

(50 CFR 21.28)       Please Note that you must read these regulations prior to signing your application.
Falconry permits authorize the take, possession, transport, sell, purchase, or barter of raptors for falconry purposes. Falconry (sometimes referred to as "hawking") is to train, by reward, a bird of prey, to hunt. This permit is issued jointly with the individual state wildlife agencies. There are three levels of falconry class (apprentice, general, master). Contact your state wildlife office for information on obtaining a falconry license. Requirements for entry level (apprentice) falconers include taking a test covering basic knowledge of raptors and falconry; having adequate facilities to house the bird(s); and having a general or master class falconer willing to be a sponsor for the two years the individual is an apprentice falconer.
American Kestrels are traditionally one of the first birds for an apprentice falconer.
Questions?  Contact us at fw1_birdpermits@fws.gov

 

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