Apprenticeship Goals

These are intended to be general learning goals achieved by the end of an apprenticeship. They represent only the basic learning required to handle and fly a hawk on game. I consider falconry an ongoing lifelong learning process for the falconer. Before an apprentice can move on and begin self-direction as a General falconer, I would expect them to be able to demonstrate these basic skills, attitudes and accomplishments. They need not be perfect at them, but they should at least be able to fumble through their weakest normal hawking task without risk to themselves or the hawk.

Trapping & Manning

  • Be able to demonstrate proper trapping technique using a BC on a road
  • Deploy and demonstrate good manning techniques
  • Successfully get a hawk to step up and hop to the glove
  • Complete creance training with a juvenile wild-trapped hawk
  • Make a hawk to the hood successfully
  • Be able to install anklets

Husbandry & Care

  • Keep all equipment clean and in good repair
  • Wed a hawk to a lure successfully
  • Be capable of tying a falconer’s knot
  • Train a hawk to follow on successfully in the field
  • Demonstrate and explain basic field medicine for simple injuries to the hawk
  • Build and maintain a mews that is safe and secure for the raptor
  • Show and explain the differences between free lofting and tethering, and when each is appropriate
  • Demonstrate at least one technique of sharpening talons
  • Explain how to imp feathers and cope beaks
  • Be able to rig a simple perch as needed
  • Demonstrate how to cast a hawk

Hunting

  • Fly a hawk frequently (3-7 days a week) on game
  • Fly a hawk on game only when it is safe and legal to do so
  • Demonstrate how to look for specific game sign (typically squirrel or rabbit)
  • Be capable of swiftly dispatching game to minimize suffering, and reduce the chance of injury to your hawk
  • Demonstrate the physical ability to keep up on a hunt
  • Successfully take game with a juvenile hawk, with an average frequency of not less than once per week

Ethics

  • Practice falconry at the highest level of ethics
  • Do no harm to the hawk intentionally
  • Demonstrate the fiscal discipline to pay for any necessary veterinary care
  • Demonstrate a willingness to engage with an be involved with the local falconry community
  • Explain and demonstrate working knowledge of the laws that govern falconry in your state
  • Demonstrate compassion for your hawk, compassion for the prey, and compassion for other falconers