Massachusetts Master Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a master 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.
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": 30.00, "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: 321 CMR 2.19(4)Documentation
Document Falconry Experience
Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period
Master-Eligible Species in Massachusetts
These species are legal for master falconers in Massachusetts. Click to view details.
Merlin
Falco columbariusGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MA (migrant through state, rare winter visitor). Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensisAll 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 sparveriusAll 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.
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperiiGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MA year-round, increasing population. Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Popular for experienced falconers.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatusGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MA (uncommon breeder, common migrant). Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Smallest accipiter.
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MA (rare year-round in northern forests). Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 birds, captive-bred allowed, max 2 wild/year. Large raptor qualifying for eagle permit experience.