Kentucky Master Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a master falconer in Kentucky
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": 20.00, "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: 301 KAR 2:232Documentation
Document Falconry Experience
Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period
Master-Eligible Species in Kentucky
These species are legal for master falconers in Kentucky. Click to view details.
Burrowing Owl
Athene cuniculariaGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Not native to KY but federally legal per 50 CFR 21.82. Captive-bred or legally transferred from other states. Allowed per Strigiform family allowance. General: max 3 birds. Master: max 5 wild + unlimited captive-bred.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensisAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: One of 4 allowed species (kestrel, RTH, red-shouldered hawk, Harris's hawk). NO nestlings, NO imprinted. Sponsor supervision required during capture. Passage only for apprentices. Wild take: residents max 2/year, non-residents max 1/year. Passage season: Sept 1-Jan 31. General: max 3 birds. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred. Native year-round resident, most common apprentice choice.
Snowy Owl
Bubo scandiacusGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Not native to KY but federally legal per 50 CFR 21.82. Captive-bred or legally transferred from other states. Allowed per Strigiform family allowance. General: max 3 birds. Master: max 5 wild + unlimited captive-bred.
American Kestrel
Falco sparveriusAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: One of 4 allowed species. NO nestlings, NO imprinted. Sponsor supervision required. EXCEPTION: Adult kestrels may be taken Sept 1-Jan 31 (General/Master only). Wild take: residents max 2/year, non-residents max 1/year. Passage season: Sept 1-Jan 31. General: max 3 birds. Master: max 5 wild + unlimited captive-bred. Native year-round, excellent apprentice bird.
Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo lineatusAll experience levels. UNIQUE KENTUCKY: Apprentice may possess red-shouldered hawk (one of 4 allowed species). NO nestlings, NO imprinted. Sponsor supervision required. Passage only. Wild take: residents max 2/year, non-residents max 1/year. Passage season: Sept 1-Jan 31. General: max 3 birds. Master: max 5 wild + unlimited captive-bred. Native year-round in KY forests and wetlands.
Harris's Hawk
Parabuteo unicinctusAll experience levels. UNIQUE KENTUCKY: Apprentice may possess Harris's hawk (one of 4 allowed species). NO nestlings, NO imprinted. Not native to KY - captive-bred or legally transferred only. Sponsor supervision required. General: max 3 birds. Master: max 5 wild + unlimited captive-bred. Very popular for falconry, cooperative pack hunter.