NYS DEC Falconry Exam to be Held in New Paltz

Falconry has been called the sport of Kings possibly for how long it has been around. Last Friday the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced it's next round of exams if you want to become a Falconer.

The definition of Falconry according to the Merriam-Websters dictionary is "the art of training hawks to hunt in cooperation with a human". The art of Falconry is believed to be traced as far back as 2000 BC. This amazing way to hunt small prey is still used today in the United States and around the world. Since 1961 the NAFA North American Falconers Associations has been keeping people interested in the sport informed.

My suggestion is, if you want to find out more about Falconry you do some research that includes checking out NAFA and also contacting the NYS DEC. Then, if you are ready look into to taking the exam to get your license. Tests this year are being offered in 2 sessions according to a press release from the NYS DEC released on Friday July 3rd.

The NYS DEC said that due to the amount of anticipated registrants, in order to maintain social distancing, they will offer a session from 10 AM to 12 Noon and another 2 PM to 4PM. We are in DEC Region 3 which is offering the exams on August 7th and the 14th. In order to take the exam you must register by the July 24th deadline. The form to register can be found on the DEC website. In addition to Falconry the DEC is also holdind exams for Leashed Dog Tracking Handler and Wildlife Rehabilitator on those days.

The requirements necessary for an Apprentice Falconry License are: you must score an 80 or better on the written exam, you must be at least 14 years of age, possess a valid new York State hunting license and maintain a DEC-approved facility for housing falconry raptors. The study guide and exam are free and available from the DEC. The 5 year falconry license costs $40.

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