Falconry Schools and Training Centers in the USA: Where to Learn the Ancient Art of Hunting with Raptors

Falconry Schools and Training Centers in the USA: Where to Learn the Ancient Art of Hunting with Raptors If you’re searching for where to learn falconry in the United States, this guide covers the top falconry schools, training programs, licensing requirements, and hands-on experiences for aspiring falconers and bird-of-prey enthusiasts. --- Introduction: Falconry in the United States Falconry—the ancient art of hunting wild game with trained birds of prey—is alive and thriving in the United States. While rooted in centuries-old tradition, American falconry is regulated, structured, and supported by a network of licensed schools, master falconers, and state wildlife agencies. Whether you’re a hunter looking to expand your skillset or a nature enthusiast drawn to the bond between human and raptor, falconry offers a unique and demanding path. In the U.S., falconry is legal in 49 states (excluding Hawaii), and becoming a licensed falconer requires dedication, study, and mentorship. Fortunately, several reputable falconry schools and training centers across the country offer structured programs, workshops, and immersive experiences to help you get started. --- 📍 Top Falconry Schools and Training Centers in the USA 1. American Hawkeye School of Falconry – Ellicottville, New York Located in the Allegheny Mountains, this school offers hands-on falconry experiences with trained birds of prey. Programs range from beginner sessions to full-day workshops. The setting—surrounded by old-growth forests—is ideal for observing raptors in flight. They cater to individuals, families, and corporate groups. 2. Hawkeye Falconry School – Ontario, Canada & U.S. Events Though based in Canada, Hawkeye Falconry hosts falconry experiences in the U.S. and offers 4- to 8-hour workshops. Their birds include Harris hawks and barn owls, and they focus on abatement training and educational outreach. 3. American School of Falconry – Columbus, Ohio & Chicago, Illinois Partnered with The Forge at Lemont Quarries near Chicago, this school offers immersive falconry programs focused on conservation and education. Their “Falconry at the Forge” experience connects guests with native raptors through guided handling and flight demonstrations. 4. West Coast Falconry – Marysville, California One of the most established falconry schools in the western U.S., West Coast Falconry offers apprentice classes, raptor handling workshops, and hunting trips. They also provide mentorship for those pursuing state falconry licensing. 5. New Mexico Falconry School – Albuquerque, New Mexico Known for its desert terrain and strong falconry community, this school offers apprentice training, bird care education, and hunting excursions with Harris hawks and falcons. 6. The Falconry Experience – Asheville, North Carolina Offers private falconry sessions, educational programs, and bird-of-prey handling experiences in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Run by licensed falconers with a focus on conservation and public outreach. 7. Georgia Mountain Falconry – Cleveland, Georgia Provides falconry classes, apprentice mentorship, and hunting trips with Harris hawks. Known for its scenic mountain setting and hands-on training. 8. Sky Falconry – Alpine, California Located near San Diego, Sky Falconry offers beginner and advanced falconry experiences, including glove handling, free-flight demonstrations, and educational workshops. 9. Falconry Excursions – Bozeman, Montana Specializes in guided falconry hunts and apprentice training in the Rocky Mountains. --- 📚 What You Need to Become a Licensed Falconer in the U.S. To legally practice falconry in the United States, you must: • Pass a written exam administered by your state’s wildlife agency (typically 100 questions on raptor biology, regulations, and care). • Secure a sponsor—a licensed General or Master Falconer—to mentor you during a 2-year apprenticeship. • Build or acquire proper facilities, including a mews (raptor housing) and weathering area, which must pass inspection. • Obtain state and federal permits, including a falconry license and migratory bird permit (if applicable). • Purchase or trap a bird—apprentices are typically allowed to work with American kestrels or red-tailed hawks. --- Training Programs and Services Offered Falconry schools in the U.S. offer a range of services: • Introductory experiences: 1–2 hour sessions for beginners to handle and fly a bird. • Apprentice courses: Multi-day programs covering regulations, equipment, bird care, and hunting techniques. • Advanced workshops: For licensed falconers seeking to expand into abatement, breeding, or exotic species. • Bird-of-prey handling: Training in glove work, jesses, leashing, and telemetry. • Hunting excursions: Guided hunts with trained raptors targeting rabbits, squirrels, or upland birds. Some schools also offer equipment sales, including gloves, hoods, telemetry gear, and perches. --- 🧠 Facts About Falconry in the USA • Falconry is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. • The U.S. has over 4,000 licensed falconers, with California, Texas, and New Mexico leading in numbers. • Harris hawks are popular due to their social nature and adaptability. • Falconry is used in bird abatement, especially at airports, vineyards, and landfills. • Apprenticeship typically lasts 2 years, after which falconers may apply for General class status. --- 🧳 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Falconry School If you’re serious about becoming a falconer, choose a school that offers: • State-recognized training • Experienced instructors with hunting backgrounds • Access to live birds and fieldwork • Support for licensing and mentorship Falconry is not a hobby—it’s a lifestyle rooted in discipline, respect for wildlife, and centuries of tradition. Whether you’re pursuing a license or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the U.S. offers some of the best falconry schools in the world.