Massachusetts Apprentice Falconer Requirements

Complete checklist for becoming an apprentice falconer in Massachusetts

Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.

Apprentice Level

Entry level for aspiring falconers - typically 2 years minimum


Key Requirements Overview

Pass the falconry examination (typically 80% minimum score)

Find and secure a sponsor (general or master falconer)

Build or purchase approved mews (housing)

Acquire necessary equipment (jesses, leash, perch, etc.)

Pass facilities inspection

Limited to 1 bird from approved species list

Exam Completion
Required
Pass Falconry Examination

Score 80% or higher on the Massachusetts Falconry Examination administered by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Specifications: {"examScore": {"minPercentage": 80}}

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19
License Fees
Required
Pay Falconry License Application Fee

Submit application fee with license request to the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Specifications: {"fees": {"applicationFee": 30.00, "currency": "USD"}}

Sponsorship Requirements
Required
Find a General or Master Falconer Sponsor

Locate a sponsor with at least 2 years of falconry experience at the General or Master level who will supervise your first 2 years

Specifications: {"sponsorExperience": "2 years", "sponsorshipDuration": "2 years"}

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19
Mew Construction
Required
Build or Obtain Approved Falconry Facility (Mew)

Construct a weatherproof housing facility meeting minimum dimension requirements of 8 feet long x 8 feet wide x 8 feet high

Specifications: {"mewDimensions": {"minLength": 8, "minWidth": 8, "minHeight": 8, "unit": "feet"}}

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19(4)
Mew Inspection
Required
Get Mew Inspected by Sponsor

Have your sponsor inspect and certify that the falconry facility meets all state and federal requirements

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19(4)
Equipment Requirements
Required
Acquire Required Falconry Equipment

Purchase or make essential equipment for training and hunting including glove, jesses, bells, bath, and scale

Specifications: {"equipmentList": ["Leather falconry glove", "Jesses (leather straps)", "Bells or radio telemetry", "Bath container", "Scale (accurate to 10g)"]}

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19(5)
Hunting License
Required
Obtain Massachusetts State Hunting License

Apply for and receive a valid Massachusetts hunting license

Bird Capture
Required
Obtain Federal Falconry Permit

Apply for and receive a federal permit to possess raptors under 50 CFR 21.82

Citation: 50 CFR § 21.82

Required
Capture or Acquire First Bird

Trap a wild passage raptor or purchase from a permitted breeder. Apprentices are limited to one bird at a time.

Specifications: {"apprenticeAllowedSpecies": ["Red-tailed Hawk", "American Kestrel", "Merlin"]}

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19(7)
Documentation
Required
Maintain Falconry Records

Keep detailed records of raptor acquisition, disposition, and annual inventory reports

Citation: 321 CMR 2.19(9)
Apprentice-Eligible Species in Massachusetts

These species are legal for apprentice falconers in Massachusetts. Click to view details.

Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis

All experience levels. APPRENTICE: One of 2 allowed species. Most common choice for beginners. Must be passage bird (under 1 year) taken from wild. NO captive-bred for apprentices. Native year-round, abundant statewide. Apprentice: max 1 bird, passage only. General: max 3 birds, wild passage or captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 birds, wild passage or captive-bred, max 2 wild/year.

American Kestrel
Falco sparverius

All experience levels. APPRENTICE: One of 2 allowed species. May be taken at ANY AGE per federal exception for kestrels (eyasses and adults allowed). Must be wild-caught for apprentices. NO captive-bred for apprentices. Native year-round, excellent beginner bird. Apprentice: max 1 bird, any age. General: max 3 birds, any age/captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 birds, any age/captive-bred, max 2 wild/year.


Next Steps