Falconry is a unique and ancient hunting partnership between human and bird but falconry is not easy; it requires dedication, money and time.

In order to get started, here’s what you need to do:

1. Get a hunting license 

Falconry is the hunting of wild quarry with a trained raptor and in order to hunt with a bird of prey, you must have a hunting license. To get a hunting license, you must take a hunter safety course, also known as the gun hunter safety course. Your local MNRF office will provide you with information on courses that are offered in your area.

Hunting is the difference between being a falconer and being a “pet-keeper”. Raptors do not make good pets and falconry regulations were put into place to allow for hunting with a bird of prey, not pet-keeping. If you are fascinated with birds but not interested in hunting with one, we respectfully suggest that you work with  bird species other than raptors.

2. Take the OHC Orientation Workshop

Our workshop is an excellent way to determine if falconry is a good fit for you. It is a full day workshop, orchestrated by some of the most experienced falconers in the province. You will have the opportunity to ask lots of questions and gain a thorough understanding of what it takes to successfully hunt with a bird of prey. Click here for more information ›

3. Join the Ontario Hawking Club (OHC)

Once you have acquired a hunting licence and participated in the Orientation workshop, join the OHC.

We encourage new members to come out to Club events and spend some time hunting with falconers before they go any further. This is the best opportunity to decide if this sport is really what you thought it was going to be– before you spend a lot of time and money and before you get a bird of prey.

Download Falconry Apprenticeship Guidelines here – a reference guide to answer basic questions.

4. Get a Sponsor

Falconry apprentices must be sponsored by a falconer who has been licenced for at least five years. Once you’re an OHC member and have a hunting licence, the Ontario Hawking Club will assist you in trying to find a qualified sponsor. Sponsors are experienced falconers who donate their time and expertise to help develop falconry excellence in beginners throughout the 15 month apprenticeship period.

In general, sponsors are looking for apprentices that have done their homework, are highly motivated and are committed to hunting with their birds. However, membership in the OHC does not guarantee a sponsor.

5.  Build your facilities and purchase equipment.

With housing and equipment, the bird’s safety  is the primary concern. The OHC has established  facilities standards that outline housing parameters for various raptor species.  Download detailed facilities requirements guidelines here. Your hawk house must be large enough so that the hawk will have freedom of movement-generally an 8′ x 8′ x 8′ pen is sufficient for a free-lofted red-tailed hawk.   Captive hawks and falcons must be protected at all times from cats, dogs, and other predators, including humans, as well as extremes of heat and cold, wind, and dampness. They should be provided with a weathering place where they may be kept outdoors in good weather and have an opportunity to bathe.  While most raptors adjust well to cold weather, some do not. They also suffer in heat and must never be left in the direct rays of the summer sun. You can expect to spend $1,500-$2,000 to construct an adequate pen.

You will also need basic equipment that includes: grommets, anklets and jesses, a leash, swivel, outdoor perches, an accurate scale and  bath pan.

Once you have a hunting licence, a sponsor and have built adequate housing, you will be ready to acquire a bird of prey.