Mississippi Master Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a master falconer in Mississippi
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: MDWFP Title 40, Part 2.4Documentation
Document Falconry Experience
Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period
Master-Eligible Species in Mississippi
These species are legal for master falconers in Mississippi. Click to view details.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensisAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: Traditionally recommended first bird (most popular choice, forgiving temperament). Must be passage bird (under 1 year) taken during season per MS regulations. Native to Mississippi year-round. Apprentice: max 1 bird. General: max 3 birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Master: max 5 wild birds, eyasses allowed year-round.
Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo lineatusAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: UNIQUE TO MS - Red-shouldered Hawk allowed for apprentices (not common in other states). Must be passage bird (under 1 year) taken during season per MS regulations. Native to Mississippi year-round (common in wooded areas, near water). Apprentice: max 1 bird. General: max 3 birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Master: max 5 wild birds, eyasses allowed year-round.
American Kestrel
Falco sparveriusAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: May possess American kestrel (fragile, not recommended for beginners). May be taken at ANY AGE per federal exception for kestrels. Native to Mississippi year-round. Apprentice: max 1 bird. General: max 3 birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Master: max 5 wild birds, eyasses allowed year-round.
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperiiGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to Mississippi year-round. Must be passage bird (under 1 year) taken during season. General: max 3 birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Master: max 5 wild birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Popular for experienced falconers, excellent bird hunter.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatusGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to Mississippi (winter visitor/migrant). Must be passage bird (under 1 year) taken during season. General: max 3 birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Master: max 5 wild birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Smallest accipiter.
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisGeneral and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Rare visitor to Mississippi (not typical MS species). Federally legal. Must be passage bird (under 1 year) or captive-bred. Federal name: American goshawk. General: max 3 birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Master: max 5 wild birds, eyasses allowed year-round. Large raptor qualifying for eagle permit experience requirement.