Idaho Master Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a master 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.
Master Level
Advanced level for expert falconers - requires at least 5 years as general falconer
Key Requirements Overview
Complete at least 5 years as a licensed general falconer
Demonstrate extensive experience with multiple species
Expanded facilities to accommodate up to 5 birds (varies by state)
Access to all legal species including eagles (with additional permits)
May sponsor both apprentice and general falconers
Can possess wild-caught, captive-bred, and imported raptors
Exam Completion
Complete 5 Years as General Falconer
Successfully practice falconry at the General level for at least 5 years
License Fees
Pay Master License Upgrade Fee
Submit upgrade fee to advance to Master falconer classification
Specifications: {"fees": {"applicationFee": 15.00, "currency": "USD"}}
Mew Construction
Upgrade Mew to Master Standards (if needed)
Ensure falconry facility meets requirements for housing up to 5 raptors including golden eagles if desired
Citation: IDAPA 13.01.17Documentation
Document Falconry Experience
Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period
Master-Eligible Species in Idaho
These species are legal for master 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.