Are you someone who has always wanted to find out more about the sport of falconry? Maybe as a kid you saw a bird of prey demonstration and you were hooked. Or maybe you, like most, you are just fascinated by the sport. If you aren't familiar with falconry, it is described by NAFA the North American Falconers Association as "taking of wild quarry in its natural state and habitat by means of a trained raptor."  In other words, hunting small game with a bird of prey.

According to the IAF, falconry is about 3000 years old. They put a lot of disclaimers on that information though, stating that they only have history based on written records. Some falconry may have been practiced where no written record currently exists. According to the NAFA, falconry takes time and practice plus education. The NAFA says it can take seven years to become a master falconer. The New York State DEC requires you to be at least 14 years old before you enter their programs.

The New York State DEC announced this week that they are offering exams for the sport of falconry, along with a volunteer wildlife rehabilitator and leashed tracking dogs. People interested in any of these three areas are encouraged to register for the exams. The exams will run across the state on Friday, April 12, 2019 but you must register in advance by Friday, March 22, 2019.

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