Become a Falconer in Ontario - Amateur Training Level

You will require a minimum of 30 hours of Training to obtain your Falconer's License from the MNRF. You will also need to obtain a Hunting License/Outdoor Card. At the end of your course, you will have to pass a written and practical exam.

Classes are taught in intimate setting indoors and out with two participants maximum.The course includes 8 modules:

Module 1 - Introduction to Falconry

1.1 Definition and History of Falconry

1.1.1 Origins and cultural significance

1.1.2 Evolution of falconry through different civilizations

1.2 Legal and Ethical Considerations

1.2.1 Local and international regulations

1.2.2 Conservation ethics in falconry

Module 2 - Raptors in Falconry

2.1 Different Types of Raptors

2.1.1 Falcons

2.1.2 Hawks

2.1.3 Eagles

2.1.4 Owls (for informational purposes only, as they are not traditionally used in falconry)

2.2 Anatomy and Behavior

2.2.1 Understanding the biology of raptors

2.2.2 Behavioral traits and instincts

Module 3 - Equipment & Facilities

3.1 Falconry Equipment

3.1.1 Jesses, leashes, and hoods

3.1.2 Perches, mews, and weathering areas

3.1.3 Training aids and tools

3.2 Facilities and Housing

3.2.1 Design and construction of mews

3.2.2 Proper maintenance and cleaning

Module 4 - Training Techniques

4.1 Initial Training Steps

4.1.1 Imprinting and manning

4.1.2 Basic commands and response

4.2 Advanced Training

4.2.1 Flying to the fist

4.2.2 Hunting techniques

4.2.3 Recall and agility exercises

Moduel 5 - Health & Nutrition

5.1 General Health Care

5.1.1 Common illnesses and injuries

5.1.2 Preventive measures and vaccinations

5.2 Nutrition

5.2.1 Appropriate diets for different raptors

5.2.2 Feeding schedules and considerations

Module 6 - Hunting & Field Training

6.1 Game Recognition

6.1.1 Identifying suitable prey

6.1.2 Ethical hunting practices

6.2 Field Training

6.2.1 Hunting strategies

6.2.2 Partnership between falconer and raptor

Module 7 - Conservation & Outreach

7.1 Conservation Efforts

7.1.1 Role of falconers in conservation

7.1.2 Rehabilitating and releasing birds of prey

7.2 Public Outreach

7.2.1 Educating the public about falconry

7.2.2 Participating in community events

Module 8 - Final Assessment & Certification

8.1 Practical Exam

8.1.1 Handling a raptor in different situations

8.1.2 Demonstrating hunting skills

8.2 Written Exam

8.2.1 Understanding falconry principles and regulations

8.2.2 Safety and ethical considerations

 

Training takes place in September, October, and November for 2 hunting seasons. Bird(s): Harris Hawk/Red-Tail Hawk