I'm super interested in learning about falconry I'm not so sure about how to get into it. Are there class or permits involved? I'd love to Learn everything I can!
Hey need2fly! Yes in MD you do need a permit to do falconry. There are not classes offered. In MD to get the permit you must find a general or master falconer willing so sign off on your application saying that he is willing to sponsor(mentor) you throughout your two year apprenticeship. After his signs off you have to schedule and take a test through DNR. If you get an 80% or higher on the test then you will build your mews and make or buy your other equipment which DNR will have to come out to inspect. If you pass the inspection then you are issued your apprentice license. The style of you mews and such will have to be run by your sponsor. Where are you located in MD? I live in northern Harford Co. Hope that answers your questions and feel free to PM me any other questions you have
I am just getting through the apprentice application process myself. I am in CA, where we are fortunate to have a large falconry community and several courses / experiences offered for the public. That being said, the two best resources I came across early are Ben Woodruff's online course "Become a Falconer" and the California Hawking Club's "Apprentice Study Guide and Manual". I will provide links for both below. Feel free to reach out if I can help.
From SoCal living in MD. Get info from your state Fish & Game on laws and what you need to know to start. I know you can get plenty of info from the California Hawking Club, Inc. (great source for any apprentice) www.calhawkingclub.org They have an apprenticeship manual and study guide. I wish I knew whom to contact out here in the DMV. Ok Californians, not the Dept. of Motor Vehicles but D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Read all you can but start w/falconry in the U.S. then books from the U.K. and other countries. Sorry I don’t have more info. Good luck!