New York General Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a general falconer in New York
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
General Level
Intermediate level for experienced falconers - requires at least 2 years as apprentice
Key Requirements Overview
Complete at least 2 years as a licensed apprentice falconer
Demonstrate successful experience training and flying raptors
Upgrade mews to accommodate up to 3 birds (varies by state)
Access to wider variety of species including captive-bred birds
May sponsor apprentice falconers
No longer requires a sponsor for most activities
Exam Completion
Complete 2 Years as Apprentice
Successfully complete at least 2 years at the Apprentice level with sponsor supervision
License Fees
Pay General License Upgrade Fee
Submit upgrade fee to advance to General falconer classification
Specifications: {"fees": {"applicationFee": 25.00, "currency": "USD"}}
Mew Construction
Upgrade Mew to General Standards (if needed)
Ensure falconry facility meets requirements for housing up to 3 raptors
Citation: 6 NYCRR 173.5Documentation
Submit Sponsor Certification
Obtain written certification from sponsor attesting to your competency and successful completion of apprenticeship requirements
General-Eligible Species in New York
These species are legal for general falconers in New York. Click to view details.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensisAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: Must possess ONLY ONE passage red-tailed hawk OR kestrel (no nestlings per 6 NYCRR 173.2(e)(2)(ii)). General: max 3 birds. Master: max 13 birds (max 5 wild-caught).
American Kestrel
Falco sparveriusAll experience levels. APPRENTICE: Must possess ONLY ONE kestrel OR red-tailed hawk (passage only, no nestlings). General: max 3 birds. Master: max 13 birds. Can be transferred to propagation after 1 year (173.7(f)).
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Accipiter striatusGeneral and Master falconers. Native accipiter species found in NY. Federal standards apply. General: max 3 birds total. Master: max 13 birds (max 5 wild-caught).
Cooper's Hawk
Accipiter cooperiiGeneral and Master falconers. Native accipiter species found in NY. Federal standards apply. General: max 3 birds total. Master: max 13 birds (max 5 wild-caught).
Northern Goshawk
Accipiter gentilisGeneral and Master falconers. Native accipiter species found in NY. Federal standards apply. General: max 3 birds total. Master: max 13 birds (max 5 wild-caught).
Broad-winged Hawk
Buteo platypterusGeneral and Master falconers. Native buteo species. Federal standards apply. General: max 3 birds total. Master: max 13 birds (max 5 wild-caught).