Michigan Master Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a master falconer in Michigan
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: MNRE Part 75.4Documentation
Document Falconry Experience
Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period
Master-Eligible Species in Michigan
These species are legal for master falconers in Michigan. Click to view details.
American Kestrel
Falco sparveriusAll experience levels. APPRENTICE RESTRICTION: ONE wild-caught only (10.3(4)(a)(vi)). Cannot possess captive-bred as apprentice. Cannot possess eyasses. General: max 3 total, max 2 wild replacements/year. Master: max 5 wild + 10 federally protected.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensisAll experience levels. APPRENTICE RESTRICTION: ONE wild-caught only (10.3(4)(a)(vi)). Cannot possess captive-bred as apprentice. Cannot possess eyasses. General: max 3 total, max 2 wild replacements/year. Master: max 5 wild + 10 federally protected.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatusGeneral and Master falconers. NOT allowed for apprentices. Part of general raptor capture permit quota - 80 total combined with other species (10.10(1)(a)(i)). General: max 3 total. Master: max 5 wild-caught.
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperiiGeneral and Master falconers. NOT allowed for apprentices. Part of general raptor capture permit quota - 80 total combined with other species (10.10(1)(a)(i)). General: max 3 total. Master: max 5 wild-caught.
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisGeneral and Master falconers. NOT allowed for apprentices. Part of general raptor capture permit quota - 80 total combined with other species (10.10(1)(a)(i)). General: max 3 total. Master: max 5 wild-caught.
Broad-winged Hawk
Buteo platypterusGeneral and Master falconers. Native Michigan species. May be possessed if captive-bred or legally acquired from other states. Not explicitly listed for wild capture in Michigan. General: max 3 total. Master: max 5 wild-caught + 10 federally protected.