Idaho General Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a general falconer in Idaho
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
General Level
Intermediate level for experienced falconers - requires at least 2 years as apprentice
Key Requirements Overview
Complete at least 2 years as a licensed apprentice falconer
Demonstrate successful experience training and flying raptors
Upgrade mews to accommodate up to 3 birds (varies by state)
Access to wider variety of species including captive-bred birds
May sponsor apprentice falconers
No longer requires a sponsor for most activities
Exam Completion
Complete 2 Years as Apprentice
Successfully complete at least 2 years at the Apprentice level with sponsor supervision
License Fees
Pay General License Upgrade Fee
Submit upgrade fee to advance to General falconer classification
Specifications: {"fees": {"applicationFee": 15.00, "currency": "USD"}}
Mew Construction
Upgrade Mew to General Standards (if needed)
Ensure falconry facility meets requirements for housing up to 3 raptors
Citation: IDAPA 13.01.17Documentation
Submit Sponsor Certification
Obtain written certification from sponsor attesting to your competency and successful completion of apprenticeship requirements
Continue Annual Record Keeping
Maintain detailed records and submit annual inventory reports to Idaho Fish and Game
Citation: IDAPA 13.01.17General-Eligible Species in Idaho
These species are legal for general falconers in Idaho. Click to view details.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensisAll experience levels. Apprentice: max 1 bird total (13.01.14.102(02)(d)). General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild-caught per year (13.01.14.102(03)(d)). Master: max 5 wild birds, max 2 wild-caught per year (13.01.14.102(04)(d)). Native year-round. Most common apprentice choice. Idaho follows federal passage rules (< 1 year old for most species).
American Kestrel
Falco sparveriusAll experience levels. EXCEPTION: American Kestrels may be taken at any age (adults over 1 year allowed per federal 50 CFR 21.82). Apprentice: max 1 bird. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Master: max 5 wild birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Native year-round, excellent apprentice bird.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatusGeneral and Master falconers. Native year-round. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Master: max 5 wild birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Popular choice for experienced falconers, excellent bird hunter.
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperiiGeneral and Master falconers. Native year-round. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Master: max 5 wild birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Popular choice for experienced falconers, excellent bird hunter.
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisGeneral and Master falconers. Native year-round (mountains, forests). General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Master: max 5 wild birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Highly skilled hawk for experienced falconers. Large raptor suitable for eagle permit experience requirement.
Ferruginous Hawk
Buteo regalisGeneral and Master falconers. Native year-round. Idaho has excellent population in grasslands and sagebrush. Largest North American buteo. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Master: max 5 wild birds, max 2 wild-caught per year. Large raptor suitable for eagle permit experience requirement.