Montana Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed 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.
Overview
Montana regulates falconry through ARM Title 12, Chapter 6, Subchapter 11. Three permit classes are issued by the Department: Apprentice (age 12+, one raptor), General (age 16+, up to three raptors), and Master (5 years at General, up to five wild raptors). Apprentices must have sponsor for first two years regardless of age. Sponsor may not have more than three apprentices at once. Permits require passing examination, facility inspection, and compliance with federal regulations. Endangered and threatened raptors listed in 87-5-205 MCA or 50 CFR Part 17 may not be used for falconry.
Apprentice
Requirements for beginning falconers. Typically includes 2 years of apprenticeship, sponsorship by a general or master falconer, and basic housing standards.
General
Requirements for intermediate falconers. Requires at least 2 years as an apprentice and allows for a wider selection of species and multiple birds.
Master
Requirements for advanced falconers. Requires at least 5 years of experience as a general falconer and allows the maximum number of birds and species.
License Information
Montana issues three permit classes. Apprentice requires age 12+ (parental signature if under 18), sponsor with General or Master permit for first two years (sponsor may not have more than three apprentices), allows one raptor as described in 50 CFR 21.29(c)(3)(i)(E), no more than two raptors taken from wild per calendar year, wild raptor must be less than one year old if taken by apprentice, may not possess raptor taken as nestling or imprinted on humans, facilities must pass inspection before permit granted. General requires age 16+ (parental signature if under 18), documentation from sponsor of two years at apprentice level with at least four months per year maintaining/training/flying/hunting raptors, possession and training/hunting with raptor for portions of at least two seasons, sponsor recommendation, allows up to three raptors, no more than two from wild per calendar year. Master requires five years at General level or equivalent, allows up to five wild raptors.
Exam Information
Montana falconry regulations reference federal examination requirements and standards. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of falconry practices, raptor biology, care and handling, and applicable laws and regulations. Specific exam details follow federal guidelines in 50 CFR Part 21.
Housing Requirements
Montana falconry facilities must meet federal standards and be inspected before permit issuance. Facilities must provide adequate housing, protection, and care for raptors. Apprentice facilities must pass inspection before permit may be granted. Facility requirements follow federal standards in 50 CFR 21.29 for mews (indoor facilities) and weathering areas (outdoor facilities).
Equipment Requirements
Montana falconry equipment must comply with federal standards as specified in 50 CFR Part 21. Equipment requirements include proper jesses, leashes, swivels, perches, bath containers, and weighing scales appropriate for the raptors possessed. All equipment must be suitable for raptor welfare and safety.