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

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.