Montana Master Falconer Requirements

Complete checklist for becoming a master falconer in Montana

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
Required
Complete 5 Years as General Falconer

Successfully practice falconry at the General level for at least 5 years

License Fees
Required
Pay Master License Upgrade Fee

Submit upgrade fee to advance to Master falconer classification

Specifications: {"fees": {"applicationFee": 15.00, "currency": "USD"}}

Mew Construction
Optional
Upgrade Mew to Master Standards (if needed)

Ensure falconry facility meets requirements for housing up to 5 raptors including golden eagles if desired

Citation: ARM 12.6.2201
Documentation
Required
Document Falconry Experience

Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period

Master-Eligible Species in Montana

These species are legal for master falconers in Montana. Click to view details.

Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis

All experience levels. Apprentice: max 1 bird total (ARM 12.6.1103). General: max 3 birds total, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Native year-round. Most common apprentice choice. Must be passage bird (under 1 year) for wild take.

American Kestrel
Falco sparverius

All experience levels. EXCEPTION: American kestrels may be taken at any age per federal 50 CFR 21.82 (adults over 1 year allowed). Apprentice: max 1 bird. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Native year-round, excellent apprentice bird.

Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperii

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MT year-round. Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Popular for experienced falconers, excellent bird hunter.

Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatus

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MT (year-round resident and migrant). Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Smallest accipiter.

Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilis

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MT (year-round in mountains and forests). Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred, max 2 wild/year. Large raptor qualifying for eagle permit experience requirement.

Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo lineatus

General and Master falconers only. NOT allowed for apprentices. Native to MT year-round (grasslands and open areas). Must be passage bird for wild take. General: max 3 birds, max 2 wild/year. Master: max 5 wild birds + unlimited captive-bred, max 2 wild/year.

View All 20 Legal Species
Related Resources
Apprentice Requirements
General Requirements
Legal Species in Montana