Essential Falconry Equipment for Beginners

Essential Falconry Equipment Gauntlet (Glove): A special glove to protect your hand while handling birds of prey. Hood: A covering for the bird’s head to help keep it calm. Jess: Leather straps attached to the […continue read the article]

Essential Falconry Equipment

  • Gauntlet (Glove): A special glove to protect your hand while handling birds of prey.
  • Hood: A covering for the bird’s head to help keep it calm.
  • Jess: Leather straps attached to the bird’s legs for control.
  • Lure: A leather or fabric decoy used to train and exercise the bird.
  • Bell: A small bell attached to the bird to help locate it when flying.
  • Perch: A place for your bird to rest comfortably when not flying.
  • Scale: A tool to weigh the bird and monitor its health.
  • Telemetry: A tracking device used to locate the bird if it flies too far.
  • Creance: A long, lightweight cord used during training flights.
  • Falconry Bag: A bag to carry all necessary equipment.

Essential Falconry Equipment: Your Path to Becoming a Falconry Enthusiast

Welcome to the magical world of falconry! Imagine you’re an explorer setting out on an epic journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland. Just as you wouldn’t embark on such an adventure without your trusty map, compass, and walking stick, stepping into the realm of falconry requires some essential gear to make your experience truly extraordinary.

At Learn Falconry, we believe that understanding and equipping yourself with the right tools is the first step toward forming that special bond with your majestic bird of prey. From jesses to hoods, each piece of falconry equipment plays a vital role, just like each part of a traditional Irish jig contributes to the beauty of the dance.

In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of falconry equipment and uncover why each item is integral to the art of falconry. So, why keep reading? Because, like the intricate patterns of a Celtic knot, every detail matters, and equipping yourself with the right knowledge will ensure that you and your feathered companion can soar to new heights with confidence and grace.

Comprehensive Falconry Equipment Guide: Essential Gear and Tools

Welcome to our detailed falconry equipment guide! Whether you’re a seasoned falconer or just getting started, understanding the right falconry gear is crucial for both training and caring for your bird of prey. This guide will answer essential questions such as “What equipment is used in falconry?” and help you identify “What is the best falconry glove?” Let’s dive into the fascinating world of falconry tools and equipment.

Essential Falconry Gear

Falconry requires a range of specialized equipment to ensure the safety, health, and effective training of your falcon. Understanding these tools will help you become more proficient in the art of falconry. Here are the key items you need:

Falconry Glove

The falconry glove is one of the most important pieces of falconry equipment. It protects your hand while providing a perch for your falcon. When choosing the best falconry glove, consider the material and fit. Leather gloves are highly recommended for their durability and comfort. You can learn more about selecting the right glove in our detailed guide “What is the best falconry glove?”.

Jesses and Leashes

Jesses are thin straps that attach to the falcon’s legs, allowing you to secure your bird and prevent it from flying away. Leashes attach to the jesses and to your glove or perch. Choosing high-quality jesses and leashes is crucial for the safety of both you and your falcon. Explore more about the different types of jesses and leashes in our comprehensive.

Hoods

Hoods are used to cover a falcon’s eyes to keep it calm and avoid distractions. They are an essential part of the falconry equipment list, especially for training and transportation. A well-fitted hood ensures that the falcon remains calm and stress-free. Check out our extensive information on hoods here.

Perches

Perches provide a resting spot for your falcon when it’s not in flight. Effective perches mimic natural resting positions and contribute to the bird’s comfort and health. Different styles suit various environments, from indoor to outdoor settings. For a closer look at different types of perches, visit our article here.

Lures

Lures are essential training tools used to simulate prey during falcon training sessions. They help teach the bird hunting techniques and conditions it to return to the falconer. Learn more about the different types of lures and their uses here.

Advanced and Modern Falconry Tools

As falconry has evolved, so has the equipment. Today’s falconers have access to advanced tools that enhance training and tracking efforts.

Bells and Telemetry

Bells are attached to the falcon’s legs to help track its movements during flight. Telemetry systems use radio signals to locate your bird over longer distances, ensuring you can find your falcon if it flies out of sight. Discover more about bells and telemetry here.

GPS Trackers

Modern falconry has seen the introduction of GPS trackers, providing real-time location data on your bird’s whereabouts. These trackers are especially useful for long-distance and high-performance falconry. Get detailed insights about GPS tracking devices here.

Explore more about the varied and intricate falconry gear and tools used in the practice by visiting our extensive falconry equipment guide.

Safety and Maintenance of Falconry Equipment

Proper maintenance and safety of falconry equipment ensure longevity and effective use. Regular cleaning and proper storage are essential practices. To help you keep your equipment in top condition, explore our tips and tools for maintenance here.

For beginners or those looking to enhance their falconry knowledge, we offer numerous resources, such as Falconry for Beginners and Advanced Falconry. Dive deep into specific topics like training a falcon or exploring different species of falcons.

Embarking on the thrilling journey of falconry is not only about skill but also about having the right equipment. At Learn Falconry, we’re dedicated to providing all the information you need to succeed in this ancient and noble practice.

Exploring Falconry Equipment

Falconry, the ancient sport of hunting with birds of prey, requires specialized equipment to ensure both the safety and effectiveness of the practice. At Learn Falconry, we provide everything you need to get started, from beginner kits to advanced gear. Let’s delve into the specifics of the essential equipment a falconer needs.

Key Equipment for Falconry

Kangaroo Leather

One of the essential materials in falconry is kangaroo leather due to its durability and flexibility. It is used in making gloves and jesses, which are crucial for handling birds.

Perches

Perches are necessary for housing and training raptors. They come in various designs, including bow perches and block perches, tailored to different bird species. The right perch ensures the bird’s comfort and prevents foot problems.

Perch Type Main Use Common Material
Bow Perch Training Metal/Wood
Block Perch Housing Larger Birds Concrete/Wood/Plastic

Hoods

Hoods are used to cover a bird’s head, helping to keep it calm during handling and transportation. They come in different sizes and styles, and it’s vital to choose one that fits well.

  • Falcon Hoods: Typically have a flat top for falcons.
  • Hawk Hoods: Rounded top, suited for hawks.

Telemetry

Telemetry involves using transmitters and receivers to track the bird’s location. This is crucial in modern falconry for monitoring health and ensuring the bird’s safety during flights.

Lure

A lure is employed during training and hunting to attract the bird. It often resembles the prey the bird is trained to hunt and is a pivotal part of the bird’s training regimen.

Leash and Swivel

These tools are used for safe and controlled handling of the bird. They are crafted to provide security while allowing the bird some freedom of movement.

Item Purpose Material
Leash Secure handling Leather/Nylon
Swivel Prevent tangling of the leash Stainless Steel

Housing for Raptors

Mews

Mews are specialized enclosures where raptors are housed. These structures are vital for the bird’s physical health and psychological well-being.

Indoor Housing

Recommended for species like kestrels due to their delicate weight management needs. Indoor setups help in closely monitoring their diet and health.

Redtail Housing

Housing a redtail hawk often requires additional planning and coordination, possibly with another falconer, to ensure a secure and optimal environment.

Initial Costs

Starting with falconry involves significant initial investments.

  • Apprentice Kit: For beginners, an apprentice kit costs around $230.
  • Digital Scale: Necessary for weighing the bird, commonly available online.

The total initial cost of getting started in falconry ranges between $1000 to $1500, depending on factors like location and bird species.

Licenses Needed

Falconry Examination

To start practicing falconry, one needs to pass an examination, typically free of charge.

Apprentice License

This license, required for training under a sponsor, costs about $40 for five years.

License Type Experience Required Cost Benefits
Apprentice No prior experience $40/5yrs Allows training under a sponsor
General Experience required Varies More flexibility in bird choice
Master Extensive experience Varies Up to 13 raptors allowed

Additional Falconry Tools

  1. Jesses and Equipment: Essential for handling birds, these include items like leash, swivel, and bath containers.
  2. Game Bags: Ergonomic and ventilated bags designed to carry gear and game.
  3. Anklets and Bells: Used for identifying and protecting the bird while it’s in the wild.

Up-to-Date Falconry Guides

Updated guides in 2024 offer detailed illustrations and text to help both beginners and experienced falconers.

Guide Feature Benefit
Illustrations Easy understanding of equipment use.
Photos Real-life examples for better clarity.
Price Range $15 – $35

By understanding and investing in the right equipment, you can embark on a fulfilling journey in falconry, ensuring the wellbeing and performance of your bird. Happy hawking!

Essential Falconry Equipment for Every Enthusiast

Falconry is a captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern practice, requiring specialized equipment to ensure the safety and well-being of both the bird and the falconer. As we’ve explored, some key items are indispensable for anyone passionate about this noble sport.

Field and Training Gear

Gloves made from high-quality leather, such as elk, deer, or cowhide, are fundamental. These gloves offer the perfect balance of protection and flexibility, ensuring your hands stay safe while handling your raptor. Alongside gloves, hoods, telemetry equipment, and perches are critical for training and managing your bird’s location, comfort, and health.

Housing and Miscellaneous Equipment

Housing your raptor properly is essential, requiring enclosures like mews and indoor spaces for smaller birds like kestrels. Don’t forget additional essentials such as leashes, swivels, and a reliable digital scale to monitor your bird’s weight accurately.

Falconry Licenses and Guides

Beginning your falconry journey involves practical know-how and legal requirements. Apprentice kits are a helpful starting point, costing around $230, with total investment potentially reaching $1500. Additionally, up-to-date falconry guides, priced between $15 and $35, provide valuable insights into gear and techniques to help you excel.

The Final Takeaway

Embarking on a falconry journey requires thoughtful preparation and the right tools. Quality equipment ensures safety, effective training, and a deeper connection between you and your raptor. As you gather your gear and knowledge, remember that this investment not only supports your passion but also honors the timeless tradition of falconry.

 

Common Questions about Falconry Equipment

What is a falconry hood and why is it important?

A falconry hood is a specialized piece of equipment designed to cover a falcon’s head and eyes. It helps keep the bird calm and reduces stress during training, travel, or rest periods. Falconry hoods come in various styles and materials, but their main purpose is to manage the bird’s visual stimuli, making handling easier and safer.

Why do falcons wear bells and telemetry devices?

Bells and telemetry devices are crucial for tracking and locating falcons in the field. Bells, attached to the bird’s legs, make a sound that helps falconers find their birds when they’re out of sight. Telemetry devices, on the other hand, use radio signals or GPS tracking to provide a precise location of the falcon in real-time. Using these tools ensures the safety and recovery of the bird.

What are jesses and leashes used for in falconry?

Jesses and leashes are essential equipment for controlling and tethering a falcon. Jesses are leather straps that are attached to a bird’s legs, allowing the falconer to manage and guide the bird without causing harm. Leashes connect to the jesses and can be used to secure the bird to a perch or glove. These items are particularly important when transporting the falcon or during training sessions.

How do falconry gloves protect the handler?

Falconry gloves are a must-have for anyone handling a falcon. These thick, protective gloves shield the falconer’s hand and arm from the bird’s sharp talons, ensuring both the safety of the handler and comfort of the falcon. Gloves are typically made from durable leather and can vary in thickness and length depending on the species and size of the falcon being handled.

What is the purpose of perches and stands in falconry?

Perches and stands provide resting places for falcons when they are not flying. These are designed to mimic natural resting positions and ensure the bird remains comfortable and safe. There are various types, such as block perches or bow perches, each suited to different species and situations. Proper perching is critical for a falcon’s well-being and behavior.

Why is bathing and watering equipment essential for falcons?

Bathing and watering equipment is crucial for maintaining a falcon’s health and hygiene. Falcons need regular baths to clean their feathers and skin, which prevents parasites and helps with feather maintenance. Providing clean water for drinking and bathing is part of essential falcon care.

 

Falconry: Equipment Required to Get Started

If you are a novice falconer, or someone who wants to get into falconry, you should know the necessary supplies and equipment that would be needed to properly work with your bird of prey. Here is a list of few must-have falconry equipments that you need to invest in before you get started:

Aba

Aba is a something that is used as a restraint for hawks and falcons. Its primary purpose is keeping the bird calm and under control. Aba consists of one piece of cloth which goes over and around the falcon, locking its wings tightly such that the falcon wouldn’t be able to move, thus keeping the bird calm and under control. Aba is fastened around the chest of the bird and then further around its legs with the piece of cloth line that’s attached to the rear side of the aba.

Aba might be used to falconers when they initially trap the bird, so as to restrain the bird and keeping it under control so as to keep it calm. This allows the falconer to put anklets and other important falconry gears on the falcon. It could be used to keep your bird calm while trimming the bird’s talons and beak too.

When you buy an aba from the falconry equipment suppliers, make sure that it is constructed using breathable fabric. While most of the other falconry equipment might use leather, aba needs to be made with a fabric that lets the air flow freely so that it does not overheat and stifle the falcon.

Hood

Another primary equipment used to keep falcons calm is a hood, and it is often made of leather. When it comes to hood, breathability isn’t that important as it covers a much lesser amount of surface area as compared to aba. Also, leather is more durable, which is especially important because it is used around the bird’s beak.

The hood is secured on the bird’s head so that it covers its eyes. The primary purpose of a hood is to block the bird’s sight, so that the falcon or hawk doesn’t get too anxious about things that they can’t see. The rear side of the hood along with its brace helps keep the hood in place, and secure.

You will find many different type and styles of hoods at falconry equipments for sale, with some hoods having intricate decorations too. When you first start out with falconry, you should avoid temptations to buy any fancy hood with lots of accents. The accents don’t really have any impact on the hood’s performance, and are for just aesthetics.

Anklet

A bracelet, or an anklet, is simply a pair of leather straps that’s attached around the bird’s legs and it is secures with the use of grommets and grommets pliers.

The anklet needs to be strong enough that it could withstand wear and tear that comes with extensive use in outdoors and fields. Anklets must have small slits that are cut into the bottom and top of the anklets in order to keep them from causing any damage to the bird’s legs.

Falconry Equipment

Besides passing a 100 point written exam any perspective falconer must also possess certain equipment and pass a facilities inspection.  In Arkansas the required facilities and equipment consists of the following (laws in your state may vary):

  • “Indoor” facilities (mews)  – Indoor is a bit of a misnomer and confused me for a while.  Mews can be outside – most are – and not necessarily indoors.  What they mean by indoor is really enclosed.  The mews, sometimes refereed to as a hawk house, is where a bird will spend most of it’s time when it is not hunting, training, or leashed within a weathering area.  The only requirements for a mews (mews is both singular and plural) is that it contain adequate perches, an easily closed and secured door, at least one vertically barred window (it does not need to have glass, and actually shouldn’t, as an open window(s) promotes good airflow and ventilation), and a well drained floor which can be cleaned easily.  Not required, but a good idea, is that a mews be big enough for a bird to spread it’s wings without touching the walls; if a bird is free lofted a mews should be big enough for it to take a wing flap or two along the longest side.  A mews 8’x8′ is about the minimum for a red-tailed hawk and will suffice for smaller birds.
  • “Outdoor” (weathering) area – A weathering area is a fenced in facility where a bird is leashed to a perch during the day.  The idea is that a bird can get sun, which is good for health and feather growth, but be protected from other raptors, stray dogs and cats, and nosy neighbors and children.  It is also good to have an enclosed area even if the falconer is present to ward off danger as equipment such as leashes and jesses sometimes break.  When a hawk is in an enclosed area is cannot escape if equipment breaks.  The only requirement for a weathering area is that a bird should not be able to strike the wiring if it flies to the end of it’s leash. *EDIT* (19 Sept 2013) A weathering area isn’t required by Arkansas law.
  • Jesses – Alymeri jesses consist of a strip of leather that is folded into a “button” at one end and a slit or small hole at the other end.  The jesses are threaded through a grommet hole on the leg cuffs of a raptor and used as an attachment point for a swivel or French clip, which are attached to a leather or rope leash.  Only one pair of jesses is required by law, though you should have at least two pairs – field jesses with only a small hole and training jesses with a slit.  Field jesses are used, as would be expected, in the field as a small hole is less likely to get hung on on a branch than a slit.  A french clip is used with field jesses.  This is not a secure enough system for weathering or training, but works well in the field.  Training jesses have a slit  through with a swivel is passed.  This is nearly fool-proof and used when the bird is outside of the mews but not in the field.  Ideally a falconer should have multiple sets of field and training jesses as the leather wears out, especially during hunting season.  Jesses should be switched out at the first sign of wear to prevent loss of a bird.

Training jesses. Note the slit. These jesses are made of kangaroo leather and have been dyed brown.

Training jesses. Note the slit. These jesses are made of kangaroo leather and have been dyed brown.

Field jesses. These jesses are made of kangaroo leather and are undyed. Note the small hole instead of a long slit.

Field jesses. These jesses are made of kangaroo leather and are undyed. Note the small hole instead of a long slit.

Harris's hawk with jesses, indicated by arrow.

Harris’s hawk with jesses, indicated by arrow. © Dr. Mike Jones, via lafebervet.com

  • Leash – One flexible, weather resistant leash.  Leather was historically used but most falconers have switched to synthetic material.  One of the best leash materials is braided nylon construction line.  Three pieces of line are braided together with a loop in one end, resulting in an incredible strong, sun- and weather-resistant leash.

My braided nylon leash. I picked bright colors so I can find it if it's dropped in the field. It's rather short and I should probably make a second leash for the weathering area.

My braided nylon leash. I picked bright colors so I can find it if it’s dropped in the field. It’s rather short and I should probably make a second leash for the weathering area.

  • Swivels – The best swivels available now are heavy saltwater fishing swivels, such as is available from Sampo.  These are also available through various falconry supply dealers [1] [2] [3] [4].  While it is possible to make your own swivels it really is worth the peace of mind to buy commercial swivels as they are relatively cheap.
  • Bath Container –  “A suitable container for each raptor two to six ( 2″- 6″ ) inches deep and wider than the length of the raptor”.  I’m planning on using an unused oil pan – it’s the right size, easy to clean, and doesn’t have any sharp edges that might damage weathers.  Other containers are of course available and work depending on your situation.
  • Outdoor perch – Apprentices are limited to red-tailed hawks and kestrels (red-shouldered hawks and great horned owls are also allowed, but I won’t be considering them as there is little information on them as concerns falconry, especially for apprentices) and so should stick with the bow perch.  A bow perch looks like an archery bow planted in the ground string down.  A ring is welded onto the bow onto which a leash can be tied.  The diameter of the bow is dependent upon the size of the bird – too large and it will be uncomfortable, too small and the talons with wrap around and dig into the foot.  The bow should be wrapped in natural fiber rope or astroturf.  The angle of the bow is important as  too steep or shallow of an angle can prevent the ring from sliding unhindered, thus increasing the chance a bird will become hungup.  A bow perch can have spikes on the bottom so it can be solidly planted into the ground, though I find that welding a solid plate to the bottom to be a better idea.  This allows the perch to be used indoors, inside the mews, or on ground that is frozen solid.  The bottom plate should be heavy enough to keep a bating bird from tipping the perch over.

Harris hawk on bow perch

Harris hawk on bow perch. © Western Sporting.

Gyrfalcon on a block perch. Block perches are suitable for falcons and some broadwings.

Gyrfalcon on a block perch. Block perches are suitable for falcons and some broadwings. © Western Sporting.

  • Weighing device – Many people prefer digital scales.  These can be highly accurate and easy to use.  I prefer a triple beam balance.  It doesn’t have any batteries that can run out and shouldn’t go bad after continual daily use.  Apprentices flying a kestrel should have a scale that measures accurately to one tenth of an ounce.  Apprentices flying a red-tail would be wise to use such a scale and they won’t have to buy a second scale for smaller birds if they switch species later, but can get away with a scale that only measures to one forth of an ounce.

Ohaus triple beam balance, accurate to 1/10 gram

Ohaus triple beam balance, accurate to 1/10 gram. I still need to add a piece of PVC wrapped in astroturf to the pan for the hawk to perch on while being weighed.

That’s it for required equipment.  There is some other equipment that, while not required by law, is a good idea to have.

  • Glove – Unless you want your bird to continually punch holes in your hand, use a glove.  Even with a kestrel a glove should be used as it is easier for them to perch on a glove than your skin which will keep moving under their feet.
  • Hood – I can’t personally comment on the use of a hood.  Some falconers who fly red-tails don’t use them but others suggest hood training is the only way to go.  I am going to try it and would suggest other apprentices at least give it a go.  Falcons must be trained to the hood, though falcons aren’t available to apprentices.

Peregrine falcon in a Dutch hood.

Peregrine falcon in a Dutch hood. © Western Sporting.

  • Lure – A lure is an essential piece of falconry equipment.  Though a lure can be elaborate and realistically mimic prey it can be as simple as a piece of thick leather.  The lure is attached to a string so it can be drug along the ground or swung around the body.  Meat is tied to the lure and a falconry bird is taught that any time it sees the lure it will get a full meal.  This ensures that the lure becomes the best safety device for recalling a bird from dangerous situations or calling the bird from a tree at the end of a day of unsuccessful hunting.  A bird should respond to the lure every time it is shown.

A cheap, yet effective lure

A cheap, yet effective lure

All photos by Michael Skvarla and licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license unless otherwise noted.

State-by-State Hunting Data

Why ‘Sport’ Hunting Is Cruel and Unnecessary

Although it was a crucial part of humans’ survival 100,000 years ago, hunting is now nothing more than a violent form of recreation that the vast majority of hunters do not need for subsistence.1 Hunting has contributed to the extinction of animal species all over the world, including the Tasmanian tiger and the great auk.2,3

Less than 4 percent of the U.S. population (13.7 million people) hunts, yet hunting is permitted in many wildlife refuges, national forests, and state parks and on other public lands.4 Almost 40 percent of hunters slaughter and maim millions of animals on public land every year, and by some estimates, poachers kill just as many animals illegally.5,6

Pain and Suffering
Many animals endure prolonged, painful deaths when they are injured but not killed by hunters. A study of 80 radio-collared white-tailed deer found that of the 22 deer who had been shot with “traditional archery equipment,” 11 were wounded but not recovered by hunters.7  Twenty percent of foxes who have been wounded by hunters are shot again. Just 10 percent manage to escape, but “starvation is a likely fate” for them, according to one veterinarian.8 A South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks biologist estimates that more than 3 million wounded ducks go “unretrieved” every year.9 A British study of deer hunting found that 11 percent of deer who’d been killed by hunters died only after being shot two or more times and that some wounded deer suffered for more than 15 minutes before dying.10

Hunting disrupts migration and hibernation patterns and destroys families. For animals such as wolves, who mate for life and live in close-knit family units, hunting can devastate entire communities. The stress that hunted animals suffer—caused by fear and the inescapable loud noises and other commotion that hunters create—also severely compromises their normal eating habits, making it hard for them to store the fat and energy that they need in order to survive the winter.

Nature Takes Care of Its Own
The delicate balance of ecosystems ensures their survival—if they are left unaltered. Natural predators help maintain this balance by killing only the sickest and weakest individuals. Hunters, however, kill any animal whose head they would like to hang over the fireplace—including large, healthy animals who are needed to keep the population strong. Elephant poaching is believed to have increased the number of tuskless animals in Africa, and in Canada, hunting has caused bighorn sheep’s horn size to fall by 25 percent in the last 40 years. Nature magazine reports that “the effect on the populations’ genetics is probably deeper.”11

Even when unusual natural occurrences cause overpopulation, natural processes work to stabilize the group. Starvation and disease can be tragic, but they are nature’s ways of ensuring that healthy, strong animals survive and maintain the strength of the rest of their herd or group. Shooting an animal because he or she might starve or get sick is arbitrary and destructive.

Another problem with hunting involves the introduction of exotic “game” animals who, if they’re able to escape and thrive, pose a threat to native wildlife and established ecosystems.

Canned Cruelty
Most hunting occurs on private land, where laws that protect wildlife are often inapplicable or difficult to enforce. On private lands that are set up as for-profit hunting reserves or game ranches, hunters can pay to kill native and exotic species in “canned hunts.” These animals may be native to the area, raised elsewhere and brought in, or purchased from individuals who are trafficking in unwanted or surplus animals from zoos and circuses. The animals are hunted and killed for the sole purpose of providing hunters with a “trophy.”

Canned hunts are big business—there are an estimated 1,000 game preserves in the U.S., with some 5,000 so-called “exotic ranchers” in North America.12,13 Ted Turner, the country’s largest private landowner, allows hunters to pay thousands of dollars to kill bison, deer, African antelopes, and turkeys on his 2 million acres.14

Animals on canned-hunting ranches are often accustomed to humans and are usually unable to escape from the enclosures that they are confined to, which range in size from just a few yards to thousands of acres. Most of these ranches operate on a “no-kill, no-pay” policy, so it is in owners’ best interests to ensure that clients get what they came for. Owners do this by offering guides who are familiar with animals’ locations and habits, permitting the use of dogs, and supplying “feeding stations” that lure unsuspecting animals to food while hunters lie in wait.

While many states have limited or banned canned hunts, there are no federal laws regulating the practice at this time.15

Other Victims
Hunting accidents destroy property and injure or kill horses, cows, dogs, cats, hikers, and other hunters. In 2006, then–Vice President Dick Cheney famously shot a friend while hunting quail on a canned hunting preserve.16 According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, thousands of injuries are attributed to hunting in the U.S. every year—and that number only includes incidents involving humans.17

The bears, cougars, deer, foxes, and other animals who are chased, trapped, and even killed by dogs during (sometimes illegal) hunts aren’t the only ones to suffer from this variant of the “sport.” Dogs used for hunting are often kept chained or penned and are denied routine veterinary care such as vaccines and heartworm medication. Some are lost during hunts and never found, whereas others are turned loose at the end of hunting season to fend for themselves and die of starvation or get struck by vehicles.

What You Can Do
Before you support a “wildlife” or “conservation” group, ask about its position on hunting. Groups such as the National Wildlife Federation, the National Audubon Society, the Sierra Club, the Izaak Walton League, the Wilderness Society, and the World Wildlife Fund are pro–sport-hunting, or at the very least, they do not oppose it.

To combat hunting in your area, post “no hunting” signs on your land, join or form an anti-hunting organization, protest organized hunts, and spread deer repellent or human hair (from barber shops) near hunting areas. Call 1-800-628-7275 to report poachers in national parks to the National Parks and Conservation Association. Educate others about hunting. Encourage your legislators to enact or enforce wildlife-protection laws, and insist that nonhunters be equally represented on the staffs of wildlife agencies.

References
1National Research Council, “Science and the Endangered Species Act” (Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press, 1995) 21.
2Grant Holloway, “Cloning to Revive Extinct Species,” CNN.com, 28 May 2002.
3Canadian Museum of Nature, “Great Auk,” 2008.
4Outdoor Life, “Why We Suck at Recruiting New Hunters, Why It Matters, and How You Can Fix It,” 15 Oct 2019.
5U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation” (Washington, D.C.: GPO, 2012) 28.
6Illinois Department of Natural Resources, “How the Program Works,” accessed 25 July 2013.
7Stephen S. Ditchkoff et al., “Wounding Rates of White-Tailed Deer With Traditional Archery Equipment,” Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (1998).
8D.J. Renny, “Merits and Demerits of Different Methods of Culling British Wild Mammals: A Veterinary Surgeon’s Perspective,” Proceedings of a Symposium on the Welfare of British Wild Mammals (London: 2002).
9Spencer Vaa, “Reducing Wounding Losses,” South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks, accessed 25 July 2013.
10E.L. Bradshaw and P. Bateson, “Welfare Implications of Culling Red Deer (Cervus Elaphus),” Animal Welfare 9 (2000): 3–24.
11John Whitfield, “Sheep Horns Downsized by Hunters’ Taste for Trophies,” Nature 426 (2003): 595.
12Morgan Loew, “Arizona Organization Protects ‘Canned’ Hunting,” CBS5 9 Nov. 2012.
13CBS News, “Can Hunting Endangered Animals Save the Species?” 60 Minutes 29 Jan. 2012.
14Robert M. Poole, “Hunters: For Love of the Land,” National Geographic Magazine Nov. 2007.
15Morgan Loew, “Arizona Organization Protects ‘Canned’ Hunting,” CBS5 9 Nov. 2012.
16Dana Bash, “Cheney Accidentally Shoots Fellow Hunter,” CNN.com, 12 Feb. 2006.
17National Shooting Sports Foundation, “Firearms-Related Injury Statistics,” Industry Intelligence Reports 2012.

2019 International Trophy Hunting Review

International trophy hunting is a multinational, multimillion-dollar industry practiced throughout the world. Trophy hunting is broadly defined as the killing of animals for recreation with the purpose of collecting trophies such as horns, antlers, skulls, skins, tusks, or teeth for display. The United States imports the most trophies of any country in the world. Congressional interest in trophy hunting is related to the recreational and ethical considerations of hunting and the potential consequences of hunting for conservation. For some, interest in trophy hunting centers on particular charismatic species, such as African lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses. Congress’s role in addressing international trophy hunting is limited, because hunting is regulated by laws of the range country (i.e., the country where the hunted species resides). However, Congress could address trophy hunting through actions such as regulating trophy imports into the United States or providing funding and technical expertise to conserve hunted species in range countries.

International trophy hunting generates controversy because of its potential costs and benefits to conservation, ethical considerations, and its contribution to local economies in range states. Proponents of trophy hunting contend that the practice provides an estimated millions of dollars for the conservation of species in exchange for the hunting of a proportionally small number of individuals. Further, they argue that trophy hunting can create incentives for conserving habitat and ecosystems where hunted animals roam and, in some impoverished areas in range countries, can provide a means of income, employment, and community development. Critics of trophy hunting contend that the practice can lead to the decline of rare and endangered species and that the pathway of moving funds from hunting to conservation can be fraught with corruption and mismanagement. Further, some contend it is unethical to kill animals for sport, or at all, and that animals should not be valued according to how much a hunter would pay to hunt them.

The international community, including the United States, has laws and regulations related to international trophy hunting. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is an international agreement that creates a series of incrementally more stringent restrictions on imports and exports of wildlife, depending on the sustainability of such trade. The European Union (EU) also addresses trophy hunting through regulating trade of trophies, issuing permits for trade of trophies, and suspending certain species from trade with the EU if the species is in peril. In the United States, international trophy hunting is addressed by several laws, including the Endangered Species Act (ESA; 16 U.S.C. §§1531-1543), which implements CITES. ESA does not regulate trophy-hunting activities within range countries directly; rather, the law governs what can be imported into the United States. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) regulates trophy hunting, in part, by issuing permits to import trophies of species that are listed as threatened or endangered under ESA.

Congress could address international sport hunting by regulating trophy imports and funding conservation and research activities overseas, among other options. Some activities that Congress could consider, according to observers, include

directing the U.S. government to work with foreign governments and partners to monitor hunting practices and game species to help ensure a positive impact from trophy hunting in range states;

creating uniform standards for evaluating trophy import permits, specifically whether trophy hunting could enhance the survival of a population as addressed under ESA or be nondetrimental to a population as defined by CITES;

mandating that permit applications and decisions be made publicly available; and

creating an independent third-party certification system to evaluate trophy hunting operations.

Congress also might evaluate alternatives to trophy hunting in the wild. In Africa, for example, some countries have banned trophy hunting altogether and support wildlife viewing and tourism in its place. Some countries, such as South Africa, have large, fenced game ranches where animals can be hunted in a practice called captive hunting. Some contend these operations do not allow for fair chase hunting (i.e., hunting wild animals without boundaries) or contribute to conservation, whereas others argue that they facilitate wildlife management and reduce poaching.

10Ten great places to hunt roebuck

ROEBUCK HUNTING IS ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING AND CHALLENGING TYPES OF HUNTING THERE IS. WE HAVE ASSEMBLED A LIST OF 10 OF THE BEST PLACES IN THE WORLD TO HUNT ROEBUCK.

 

“No matter where you are in the world, amazing experiences await”

For many hunters, the spring and summer stalk for roebuck marks the start of the hunting season. This is nature in the raw – a technology-free hunt, untroubled by crackling radios or having to enter complicated dog tracking codes. This is hunter and nature alone. Quiet, peaceful and in harmony. Of course, searching for and selecting a beautiful large buck makes the hunt even more appealing. To shoot or to spare? How close do I dare approach? Where is the wind coming from?

 

Besides the simple magic of being in the natural world, a trip away from home adds an extra dimension to the hunt. New landscapes, different food, different hunting culture and new friends. The benefit of a buck hunting trip, practically speaking, is that it need not take too long, avoids excessively long journeys, does not require a plethora of gadgetry, and need not be crushingly expensive, as long as you avoid the very largest bucks. In addition, for those who have difficulty finding time off, the hunting season handily coincides with the holiday season.

So how do you pick your country? I have enjoyed amazing hunting in Spain, Hungary, France, Romania, Sweden and on Finland’s Åland archipelago. My largest buck came from Romania, on the day that I found myself just 60 metres from a 300 kg brown bear. An unforgettable experience. The smallest buck was offered by Åland, along with an even greater hunting experience. I was waiting in a small clump of trees surrounded by fields, for a buck to make an appearance. Suddenly, in the binoculars, I notice that a buck has stepped out in front of me, some 200 metres away. At that moment, as if from nowhere, a thick fog rolls in over the landscape. Visibility falls pretty much to zero. And then it happens. Out of the fog, right next to me, barely six metres away, he appears.

 

Every day in the forest, no matter where you are in the world, amazing experiences await. My advice would be to base your choice on your own interest in a particular destination country, rather than on the size of the roebucks in a tour operator’s advertising. Happy hunting!

Sweden – world-class roebucks

No buck hunting list is complete without Sweden. Magnificent bucks are felled across the country, but the ‘estate bucks’ in the south are often in a class of their own. The largest Swedish roebuck ever taken is the Widtsköfle buck, shot on the estate of the same name in 1982. Its trophy measured 246.9 CIC points and weighed 977 grams. But Northern Sweden has also delivered the goods. The next largest buck was shot north of Umeå in Västerbotten by hunter Jonas Lundgren in 2010. The trophy measured an impressive 234.7 points.

Poland – good value and close by

Poland is a paradise for roe deer. With its reasonable prices and excellent roe deer population, this is a favourite destination for buck fans. Target large bucks and hunt selectively, or target quantity and take several bucks over the course of your trip. The Polish buck season begins in mid-August and continues until the end of September.

Spain – tremendous trophies

 Spain may not be the first country to spring to mind when talking about roebuck hunting, but in fact many tremendous bucks are taken every year, especially in the north of Spain. The Spanish hunting season runs from April to September. Many Spanish hunters think that April and September are the best months, even though the rutting season is in July and August. However, July and August are very hot, which means that the deer do not move about as much compared with the rutting season in cooler climes.

Åland – good chance of a raccoon dog

The Åland archipelago, between Sweden and Finland, consists of 6,700 islands – and an impressive roe deer population. The population is estimated at 15,000, with an annual take of around 4,000. Stalking begins on 15 August, lasting till the end of the month. Of course, there are impressive large bucks in Åland, but in general it is not a paradise for trophies. There are however good chances of another sort of game when hunting: the raccoon dog. This invasive alien species is hunted year-round.

Hungary – hunting during the mid-summer rut, and hunting by horse and carriage

Hungary is a tradition-rich hunting country. There are large national hunting areas and wildlife conservation is very professionally managed. Here you can hunt spring roebuck in the wide open fields, but hunting is also permitted during the rut in mid-summer. So don’t forget your deer call! For a somewhat different experience, organisers offer hunting by horse and carriage. The horse walks along the fields at a steady pace and when you discover a buck, you simply step down and start stalking.

Great Britain – high-quality hunting in a beautiful landscape

Buck hunting in traditional Oxfordshire, on Devon’s luxuriant moorlands or in Scotland’s extensive Highlands. There are endless opportunities for the enthusiast looking for high-quality roebuck shooting in a beautiful landscape close to home. In Scotland and England, the roe deer season begins on 1 April and runs to 20 and 31 October, respectively. Did you now that neighbouring Ireland’s first reported roe deer sighting was in 2016? There is officially no roe deer population in Ireland.

Russia – the world’s largest roebucks

OK, let’s admit from the start that we are not talking about the European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), but rather a different species, the Siberian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus). That being said, roe deer don’t come bigger than this. An adult Siberian roe deer can weigh 40–50 kg and the horns of a fine buck are generally between 700 and 900 grams, but horns weighing a good bit more than a kilo are also found. The Russian roe deer hunt usually takes place in the huge Siberian birch forests or out in the massive open fields. The best period for hunting is during the rut, which takes place from late August to mid-September.

France – combine holidays, chamois and deer

France has amazing roe deer country and a mild climate. There are many excellent regions, but the south-west is generally considered to be among the very best. The hunting season runs from June to the end of September. In September, in certain areas, roebuck hunting can be combined with red deer stalking and even chamois. In addition to this, the buck hunting season is a prime holiday period in the south of France, so why not hunt for a few days and holiday with the family for the rest of the time?

Romania – hunting in Transylvania

Romania has very fine roebucks, due to their excellent wildlife conservation. Under Romanian law, a hunting area must be at least 7,500 hectares, with some local variations, and each area must also have a professional hunter who is officially responsible for the hunt. In other words, this is just the place for a roebuck hunter looking for a fine trophy animal. The roebuck hunt runs from 1 May to 15 September. The best time to go hunting is the first two weeks of the season and from the late-July rut to early August.

Germany – black roebucks, yes, they do exist

Black roebucks? Yes, there are actually populations of black roe deer in Europe, notably outside Hamburg in Germany and an area of the Netherlands. These bucks very rarely have large horns, but it is of course the colour of the hide that is desirable. However, hunting for black roebucks is an expensive business. You need to reckon on 5,000 euro for a three-day shoot, including one buck.

//Tobias Bestelid has worked as a travel and hunting journalist for many years and has also written a series of guidebooks to various destinations worldwide. His work has taken him to more than 80 countries. Tobias prefers stalking or hard hunting in the mountains.//

How to Become a Falconer

Falconry is a lifestyle and should not be entered lightly, however, once you enter this amazing sport, you will never look back.

This information is current as of 1/2016. Laws change so be sure to check with your state’s requirements.

Acquiring a falconry license in the US requires an aspiring falconer to:

• Pass a written test
• Acquire a state permit
• Acquire a hunting license
• Serve two years as an apprentice under a licensed falconer

Below are the steps to become a falconer

Falconry is not to be entered lightly. This is not just an exotic pet. If you want a pet, buy a parakeet. This is a sport that requires a life style change. You can’t ask your neighbor to feed her while you go on a two week vacation. You give up your entire winter’s worth of weekends to fly your bird. If your not willing to hunt with your bird and actually catch game, then this sport is not for you.

I’m going to give you the steps you need to go through to become a falconer. Further down, I’ll go through each step in more detail. There are a lot of hoops you have to jump through, but each step isn’t very difficult.

 

 

 

 

1. Contact your local Fish & Game office and ask for their falconry package. While you have them on the line, ask them when they give the test and how much it costs. Also, ask them if they have any contacts for local clubs in your area or a state wide falconry club.
2. Obtain your study guides
3. Study
4. Take the test
5. Get a sponsor
6. Build your mews, make your equipment and have your sponsor sign off on them
7. Send in your completed paperwork
8. Wait for your license
9. Wait some more
10. Trap your bird
11. Train your bird
12. Go Hunting
You must also have a hunting license. This requires you take a gun and safety class in your area. Contact your local sporting goods store for a class near you.

I’m not going to get into the actual trapping and training of your bird. These are things that your sponsor will teach you. You are an Apprentice for two years and can only have one bird. You then become a General Falconer for 5 years and can have 2 birds. After that you become a Master Falconer and can have 3 birds.

It’s very important that you have a good raptor vet lined up. This vet must know about raptors. When you trap your bird, it’s very important to get them to the vet as soon as possible. It’s imperative that the bird is in good health before you start your training. It’s also important to have their number handy for any mishaps in the field.

Now let’s go over each step one at a time.

1. Contact your local Fish & Game office

Every state is different and you need to find out what is required for your state. This is the best place to get started. They will send you the information you need for your state and hopefully have a club contact for you. Try Googling falconry for your state.

2. Obtain your study guides.

This is tricky; you don’t even know what to study so how do you know what to buy? Again each state is different, but for the most part the general questions they will ask are about the same. So what do you need to study? The California Hawking Club has one of the best study guides around. Many other states have taken this guide and with a few changes, made it suitable for their state. Even though the questions are geared for California, the information in it is invaluable. If you study this book and can answer all the questions in it, you should have no problem passing the test.

 

 

3. Study

studyIt will seem a bit overwhelming at first. You will see terms that are unfamiliar to you. There is a health section that will have you scratching your head. But don’t despair. Take each section one at a time and just keep studying. The information you learn here really isn’t what makes a falconer. Just study the guide with passing the test in mind. Your sponsor will teach you how to become a falconer. But, keep the guide it’s great reference material.

 

 

 

Hunting License

Along with a State falconry permit, you will need a hunting license. This is a good time to start the classes. Call a local gun shop, or hunting store and ask where the nearest gun and safety class is to you. But, you say, I won’t be shooting a gun. Why do I need to take a gun and safety class? Well, because falconry is the smallest group of hunters in the US, the government doesn’t quite know where to put us, so they group us in with all the gun hunters. Therefore, you have to take a gun and safety class in order to get your hunting license.

 4. Take the Falconry Test

Usually there are 100 questions and you must get at least 80% to pass. It’s important that you are ready for it because if you don’t pass, you can’t take it again for another 3 months and that can mean the difference between becoming a falconer this season or having to wait until next season. So don’t rush into it . Be ready. The test really isn’t very hard and they give you 2 hours to complete it. But if you know it well it should only take you 20-30 minutes to complete.

5. Get a sponsor

X-Portrait of boy with falconThis can actually be the hardest part of becoming a falconer. There was a time that you had to get a sponsor first, and some states still may require that. But it makes more sense to take the test before you even start looking. Why? If you approach a potential sponsor, the first thing they are going to tell you is “Take the test and then we can talk”. By approaching a potential sponsor and letting them know you already took the test and passed and have a hunting license, they will see that you are serious. So how do you find a sponsor? That’s the hard part; you need to contact the club in your state, or a falconer in your area. Not all falconers are willing to be a sponsor and not all sponsors are good falconers. You need to find one that you get along with and are willing to spend the next 2 years learning from. The sponsor’s job is to teach you how to make your equipment, help you build your mews, help you trap your bird, teach you how to train her and how to get her taking game. Your job as an apprentice is to follow your sponsors instructions.

Here are some questions you might want to ask the potential sponsor:
1. What do you require of me during the next two years?
2. Do you allow me to keep my bird as long as I want? Or do you want me to release my bird at the end of the first season and trap another next season?
3. Do you have any thoughts about me using my bird for education as well as hunting? (Some sponsors will not allow you to do any education with your bird. So if that’s something you want to do, you need to know up front if your sponsor has a problem with it.)
4. What are you looking for at the end of the two years that will allow me to become a General Falconer?
5. What books do you recommend that I read?

6. Build your Equipment and gather your gear.

This is where the most money goes. Building your mews can be anywhere from $500 up depending on how elaborate you get. Your sponsor should help you with at least the design of the mews. They can be a simple single chamber, a single chamber with an equipment room attached, a single chamber with an equipment room and a weathering yard attached.
It all depends on you, the amount of space you have and your budget. What ever design you decide on the minimum size for a red-tail single chamber is 8′ x 8′ x 8′. You really don’t need anything larger than that. Never use chain link as a mews.

 

 

 

FALCONRY EQUIPMENT GLOVE/GAUNTLET/LURES

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of equipment and gadgets that are part of falconry, so we’re going to use this page to talk about necessities and nothing more. For the basis of this page I will be using my home states requirements although most other states have identical or near identical requirements. You can find your states requirements in the state falconry regulations that pertain to you. Remember, also, that your sponsor may require you to use something additionally to this list, and that should be addressed between the sponsor and apprentice.

Housing and Perching and Tethering equipment are discussed on their own page, and both of which are required as a falconer.

I’m also going to include some equipment, that even if not considering a requirement by the state is a “need” of basic falconry.

GLOVE/GAUNTLET

It’s one of the most common traits of all falconry art, the “glove”.

A key item many people don’t realize and is critical to the entire process being successful. It gives the bird something to grab onto for balance rather than your smooth skin. Very rarely does a well mannered bird try to dig into the falconers hand.

The glove also serves as a reward station for your raptor to return to for a small piece of food. This can be for positive reinforcement while out in the field or to recall your bird after a hunt.

Another by-product value of the glove is cover for the falconer when assisting with quarry such as squirrels.

TRAINING AIDS/CONDITIONAL REINFORCERS

As we will discuss in the training area of the website, it’s extremely useful to carry with training aids such as a whistle, a clicker, or even both depending on your methods.

I personally use both the whistle and the clicker for different actions, however the whistle is the most commonly used for behavioral reinforcement.

A recommendation is always carry a back up.

LURES

This item is a staple in every falconers hawking bag. The lure is used in almost every training regime for both falcons and hawks, even if in different manners.

The bird is conditioned to see the lure as a reward, normally with a “bigger” reward than just returning to you. This helps bring in the stubborn bird or quickly recall during a dangerous situation.

Some falconers try to make their lures look lifelike as possible. Others use whatever random pieces of material they may have around. The looks/material do not seem to matter as much as being consistent. I make a duplicate backup for every bird just in case I lose the lure and need to get the bird down in a pinch. Often, however, once lure trained a bird will come in to any lure being swung.

 

 

Falconry Equipment

Hi, We Samundri Industry We created this blog to prevent people from purchasing an Falconry Equipment in an impulse and to help those who are serious about it reach their dream in a responsible way. On this blog you’ll learn the basics of falconry, article by article. Contact us for buy wholesale falconry equipment through email: info@newfalconryequipments.com

Falconry Gloves Bells & Swivels

As a practicing falconer myself, I know that the Falconry equipment that we use for our feathered friends is one of the most important things that we have on our minds. Whether it may be thinking about a new Falconry gloves, the sound of your next set of bells or which swivel and leash is just right for that particular bird.

Here at Samundri Industry Falconry Equipment our mission is to provide falconers with good quality Falconry equipment at reasonable and fair prices.We have Falconry Hawk & Eagle gloves that are good quality, affordable and will last you the season and if it is looked after then much longer. We also stock the higher end products for falconers that want to treat themselves and their birds.

Falconry Gloves Bags Vests Jackets

Our gloves and Falconry bags have been designed to suit falconry needs. The gloves and bags have been tested in the field and display arena by a number of falconers. Over the years we are tweaked and added to our products until myself and other falconers were happy with them. I am very proud of the Eagle Glove, Hawk Glove and the Waist Bag so please have a look all our Falconry Products .

We hope that you find everything that you need on here if not please do not hesitate to ask info@newfalconryequipments.com

Thank you,