Oregon Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed falconer in Oregon
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
Overview
Oregon regulates falconry through OAR Chapter 635 Division 55. Licensed Oregon falconers must comply with 50 CFR §21.3 and §21.29 (July 2015 edition) except where state regulations more restrictive. Falconry license required along with hunting license and any required permits/stamps. Nonresidents must have valid falconry license from federally approved state program plus nonresident hunting license. Capture season is May through February (except great horned owl nestlings February-June). Indigenous raptor species defined. Three permit classes exist following federal standards. Hacking permitted for indigenous captive-held raptor species returned to wild.
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
Oregon requires valid Oregon falconry license, hunting license, and any required permits/stamps before participating in hunting wildlife. Nonresident falconers hunting in Oregon must have valid falconry license from state with federally approved falconry program, nonresident hunting license, and any required permits/stamps. Three license classes exist following federal 50 CFR §21.29 standards. Capture season runs May through February except great horned owl nestlings (February-June). Indigenous raptor species include golden eagle, sharp-shinned hawk, Cooper's hawk, northern goshawk, red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, American kestrel, merlin, prairie falcon, peregrine falcon, gyrfalcon, great horned owl, and northern harrier. Captive-bred raptors defined as hatched in captivity from parents that mated in captivity or progeny of artificial insemination.
Exam Information
Oregon falconry licensing requires compliance with federal examination standards in 50 CFR §21.29 (July 2015 edition). Applicants must demonstrate adequate knowledge of falconry practices, raptor biology, care and handling, and applicable laws and regulations before license issuance.
Housing Requirements
Oregon requires facilities to comply with federal standards in 50 CFR §21.29 (July 2015 edition) for raptor housing and care. Facilities must provide adequate protection, space, and environmental conditions for raptors possessed. Housing must meet federal requirements except where Oregon regulations more restrictive.
Equipment Requirements
Oregon requires equipment to comply with federal standards in 50 CFR §21.29 (July 2015 edition). Equipment must be appropriate for the species possessed and suitable for proper raptor care, handling, and welfare. All equipment must meet federal requirements except where Oregon regulations more restrictive.