$$$ Fines, How much are we talking?

[OdinsEye]

Does anyone know what type punishment is involved if somebody shoots a hawk. What type of fine/punishment can they expect or will anything even be done?

No, I do not have any wish to shoot bird of preys. I am asking because I have heard that my neighbors shoot RTs and everything else that wanders onto their property. Seeing as how I am hoping become a licensed falconer, I definitely don't want them shooting my bird or any birds of prey for that matter. I want to go over there and say "If you shoot my bird, or any other raptor, you can expect a ____ dollar fine"

[alex2]

There's no set amount, but you can tell them they're breaking Federal Laws.

They can face Prison time, Loss of Propery, Fines exceeding $2,000, Hunting/Fishing license's revoked.. etc..

Best thing for you to do is have a Camera ready.. and a finger on the number to call your local Department of Fish and Game.

I wouldnt advise you going over there advising them of there rights. I suggest you catch them in the act and let a Officer doing it for you.

[oldguy]

I agree with Wolf. Unless you're a peace officer, it would be best to avoid confrontation. Every clod-kicker I've run into that thinks shooting hawks is justified is but a few steps away from pointing the barrel at you.
Stay in the background, camera ready, and let the authorities deal with them.

[Falcon Boy]

Agreed, and as for harassing a BOP, i have heard as much as 6months in jail and $50,000 fine

[OdinsEye]

Thanks for the tips, The alleged shooters are teenagers, although we certainly do have older guys around that wouldn't hestitate to pull out a gun on trespassers, animal or human.

FB, I have heard that it was a $50,000 fine also, but now I think that might be for endangered animals. My sponsor's peregrine was shot when they were endangered and fish and game didn't do anything.

[Falcon Boy]

When falconry birds are shot nothing is usually done from what i have seen. I know of 2 falconers who's birds have been shot and nothing ever happened to the shooters, not even a fine.

[ryannewhardt]

If anyone did anything to my falcon and nothin happened I'd go vigilante on them...

[morganf]

you know... if anything ever happens... this is evidence

[dhknecht]

I know this thread is a bit old, but speaking from a legal aspect, it is not really up to the fish & wildlife department of each state to prosecute, only investigate. The actual prosecution comes from the US Attorney in each area. If you see something or something happens to your bird, put pressure on the US Attorney's office. Make and appointment to meet with one, call often, etc., etc. They have sole power to decide to prosecute and they also have the power to ORDER the federal authorities to conduct a proper investigation. If you are polite and concerned enough and can get your case across to them, they will usually jump and run with it.