Information on Falconry in connecticut

[stimpy]

Hi all

I am new here, I have been interested in Falconry since I was a little kid. I am reasonably sure I have the time and the money now to get involved. I have been reading the available literature in my state. I have some (probably stupid) questions I would like to ask

First, what do you do with your birds out of hunting season? What happens if it kills something? The reason I ask is that I live in the middle of like 1000 acres of woods. It borders on a state forest that allows hunting. I was thinking (perhaps naively) that I could fly right out of the back yard, but literally the place is teaming with game. I would think a hawk would want a tasty snack on daily flights.

Second, The hawk shelter, I have seen some pretty big ones. Do they need heat in the winter?

Third, how does one go about getting a sponsor? Are there any falconry clubs in North West Connecticut?

Thanks in advance

[oldguy]

Hi stimpy, and welcome.

I would suggest you read a few books. American Falconry and Hunting Hawks is a great one. The Redtailed Hawk is another of many.

The molt is of course when the bird sheds last year's feathers and grows new ones. Lots of things to do during this time. Make sure your bird has all the high quality food it will eat, and fresh water each day. Take up gardening. Go fishing.

This is not to say you shouldn't handle your bird during the molt, just that it's temperment will not be the same as when it was at hunting weight and it likely be fussy and won't really want you around. Keep fresh water, sunshine and shade and wait for fall. Some falconers avoid the molt all together and release their passage birds in the spring and trap another in the fall.
Most states will allow you to count four months with a bird as a year on your apprenticeship.

Most birds taken in your region kept in an enclosed mews with open barred windows will not require extra heat source. There are exceptions. Some feel kestrels are best kept indoors for various reasons.

Nothing at all wrong with this forum, but don't confine your search for information here.

That being said, take all advise with a grain of salt.
There are alot of experts with 20 years of dealing with only one or two birds.

Did you say you've contacted your state's game dept. and requested any information on falconry ?

How about looking up your state's falconry club ? Great way to meet falconers and maybe a future sponsor.

Good luck, Dan aka oldguy.