New York Master Falconer Requirements
Complete checklist for becoming a master 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.
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": 25.00, "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: 6 NYCRR 173.5Documentation
Document Falconry Experience
Provide documentation of successful flights, hunts, and raptor handling over the 5-year period
Master-Eligible Species in New York
These species are legal for master 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).