Understanding Falconry Regulations

Comprender las regulaciones de cetreria va mas alla de aprobar un examen o evitar multas. El marco regulatorio representa decadas de trabajo de conservacion que ha mantenido saludables las poblaciones de rapaces mientras permite a los cetreros practicar su oficio. Al aprender estas normas a fondo, te conviertes en parte de una tradicion de administracion responsable. Cada cetrero que cumple con las regulaciones contribuye al argumento de que la cetreria y la conservacion de la vida silvestre pueden coexistir, fortaleciendo el deporte para las generaciones futuras.

Why Falconry Is Regulated

All native raptors in the United States are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) of 1918. This law makes it illegal to possess, take, or kill migratory birds without explicit federal authorization.

Falconry is one of the ways this authorization is granted. The regulations exist to ensure that:

• Falconers are knowledgeable enough to care for raptors properly
• Wild populations aren’t harmed by take for falconry
• Birds in falconry are tracked and accounted for
• Standards exist for housing and care

The Two-Tier System

Falconry is regulated at both the federal and state level. Here’s how it works:

Federal Regulations (The Floor)

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) sets minimum standards through 50 CFR 21.29. These regulations establish:

• The three license classes (Apprentice, General, Master)
• Minimum time requirements at each level
• Species restrictions by license class
• Maximum number of birds per falconer
• Minimum facility standards
• Reporting and banding requirements

State Regulations (The Specifics)

Each state administers its own falconry program within federal guidelines. States can be more restrictive than federal law, but not less. This means:

• Your state sets the exam content and passing score
• Your state determines exact facility specifications
• Your state may add species restrictions beyond federal minimums
• Your state sets licensing fees and renewal procedures
• Your state schedules inspections and maintains records

Key Federal Requirements

Regardless of your state, these federal minimums apply everywhere:

Reporting Requirements

Falconers must maintain records and report certain activities:

• 3-186A Form: Federal form for raptor acquisition, transfer, loss, or release
• Banding: All birds must be banded with federal bands; some states require additional bands
• Annual reports: Many states require yearly reporting of birds possessed
• Transfer records: Documentation when birds change hands

Moving Between States

If you move to a new state, you’ll need to:

1. Notify your current state of the move
2. Apply for a license in the new state
3. Your experience carries over (no restarting as Apprentice)
4. Your facilities must meet the new state’s requirements
5. Some states have reciprocity agreements; others require exams

Contact both states’ wildlife agencies before moving to understand the process.

Common Compliance Issues

Most violations are unintentional. Common issues include:

• Late reporting: Failing to file 3-186A forms within required timeframes
• Expired licenses: Letting your permit lapse before renewal
• Facility issues: Modifications that take your mews out of compliance
• Record-keeping: Incomplete documentation of acquisitions and transfers

The consequences of violations can range from warnings to license suspension, depending on severity and intent. When in doubt, contact your state agency—they’d rather help you comply than punish mistakes.

Hunting Licenses

In addition to your falconry permit, you need a state hunting license to actually hunt with your bird. This is separate from your falconry license and has its own requirements (usually simpler—often just a fee and hunter education course).

Start With Your State

The regulations might seem overwhelming, but remember: your state wildlife agency is your primary resource. They administer the program, schedule exams, conduct inspections, and answer questions.

Find your state’s falconry coordinator and introduce yourself. They deal with aspiring falconers regularly and can guide you through the specific requirements for your area.

Comienza descargando el documento actual de regulaciones de cetreria de tu estado, que generalmente esta disponible como PDF gratuito en el sitio web de la agencia de vida silvestre estatal. Lee las normas federales (50 CFR 21.29) y los requisitos especificos de tu estado en paralelo, anotando donde tu estado agrega restricciones adicionales. Conserva una copia impresa de ambos documentos en tus registros de cetreria. Cuando surjan preguntas sobre lo que esta permitido, siempre aplica la regla mas restrictiva y contacta directamente al coordinador de cetreria de tu estado para aclaraciones en lugar de depender de consejos de segunda mano.