Falconry is the ancient sport of hunting with trained birds of prey. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years across many cultures. When getting started in falconry, one of the most important decisions is choosing which type of hawk to train. There are several factors to consider when selecting the best hawk for falconry.
Size and Strength
One of the primary considerations is the size and strength of the hawk. Larger hawks like goshawks and red-tailed hawks have the power to take down larger prey like rabbits, ducks, and pheasants. Smaller hawks like kestrels can only handle smaller prey like mice, voles, and sparrows.
For beginners, a good balance is a mid-sized hawk in the 1-2 lb range. This includes popular hawks for falconry like Harris’s hawks and red-shouldered hawks. They are big enough to tackle some larger prey but are more forgiving for novice falconers to train and handle.
Temperament
The temperament of a hawk is also critical. Wild hawks can be prone to aggression and unpredictability. Certain species tend to have more docile dispositions that take well to training and interaction with humans.
The Harris’s hawk is a popular choice because of its unusually social nature. As a pack hunter in the wild, they are used to working in teams to catch prey and are intelligent. Other hawks with good reputations for trainability and temperament include red-tailed hawks, kestrels, and red-shouldered hawks.
Availability
The availability of different hawk species will depend on geographic location. In North America, excellent beginner hawks like the red-tailed hawk and Harris’s hawk are abundant in the wild across most of the continent.
However, a species that is common in one region may be hard to find in another. A good option is to check with local falconers, raptor rehabilitators, or your state’s department of natural resources to see which hawks are most readily available in your area.
Care and Handling Considerations
Some hawks may have specific care and handling needs. Large hawks require more space, larger cages, and additional food. Small hawks are more delicate and prone to stress.
A hardy, easy-to-care for hawk like the red-tailed hawk is usually best for beginners before working up to more challenging species. Be sure to research housing, equipment, dietary needs, and health concerns for any species you are considering.
Training Challenges
Falconers must also be prepared to put in the rigorous training required with any hawk they choose. Some species will prove easier to train and will bond more readily with their handlers.
Harris’s hawks, peregrine falcons, gyrfalcons and northern goshawks have reputations for being especially intelligent and trainable. American kestrels and red-tailed hawks are also good options for the novice falconer looking for a more cooperative training experience.
Prey Preference
A hawk’s natural prey preferences in the wild should match up with the type of hunting the falconer wants to do. For example, peregrine falcons are adept at taking fast-flying waterfowl, while Harris’s hawks excel at small mammals and birds.
Consider if you want to primarily hunt birds, rabbits, hares, squirrels, or other game when choosing a hawk with matching natural instincts and abilities.
Commitment Level
Caring for any bird of prey requires dedication, time, and resources. Beginner species like red-tailed hawks are lower maintenance. More challenging hawks require greater commitment and experience.
Be honest about your skill level and how much time you can devote. A more high-maintenance species may not be the best choice when starting out in falconry.
Appearance
For some falconers, aesthetics may also play a role in selecting a hawk. Stunning birds like peregrine falcons and northern goshawks have impressive good looks. Smaller hawks like kestrels have their own delicate beauty.
While looks shouldn’t be the top priority, there’s no denying that many falconers end up developing a close bond and appreciation for their bird’s appearance over time.
Examples of Good Beginner Hawk Species
Based on the above criteria, here are some examples of excellent hawk species for beginners in falconry:
- Red-tailed hawk – Hardy, easy to handle and train, and very versatile hunters.
- Harris’s hawk – Naturally social and intelligent, for small or mid-sized prey.
- American kestrel – Small and easy to manage, good for small rodents and birds.
- Red-shouldered hawk – Tolerant disposition, adaptable hunting skills.
Examples of Challenging Hawk Species
Here are some examples of hawk species that are better suited for more experienced falconers:
- Northern goshawk – Fierce temperament, specialized hunting skills.
- Golden eagle – Very large and powerful, needs space and experience.
- Peregrine falcon – Fastest bird, requires expert training for aerial hunting.
- Gyrfalcon – Heavy maintenance needs, elaborate housing.
Importance of a Reputable Source
Wherever you obtain a hawk, it is vital to find a reputable source. Underground capture of wild hawks depletes populations and is illegal without proper permits. Purchase hawks only from an established and licensed falconer, breeder, or rehabilitation facility.
A healthy hawk raised in captivity from a young age, properly socialized, and from good bloodlines will serve a beginner falconer well. Be wary of those selling wild hawks or offering deals that seem too good to be true.
Consulting Experienced Falconers
New falconers should humbly seek the wisdom of veteran falconers when deciding on a first bird. Their years of experience will provide practical guidance, considerations you may not have thought of, and insight into choosing the best species to start with.
Locate a falconry club in your area and get to know seasoned mentors. Many will happily share advice to help you avoid mistakes they made when starting out.
Being Realistic as a Beginner
Falconry requires dedicating massive amounts of time and energy to train a wild hawk. Beginners often underestimate the commitment involved. Starting with an easier species prevents discouragement when facing the steep learning curve.
The most successful novice falconers are realistic about their abilities. Be patient, learn diligently from experts, and don’t over-extend yourself with a challenging hawk as your first bird.
Starting with a Hybrid Hawk
Some experienced falconers recommend starting with a hybrid hawk bred for good temperament, trainability, and hunting ability. Common hybrids include crosses between Harris’s hawks, red-tailed hawks, and goshawks.
While not as popular, these hybrids offer inherited tractability that can give beginners an easier time training their first bird. Reputable raptor breeders can offer guidance on locating a hybrid hawk.
Patience in Finding the Right Hawk
Don’t feel rushed into choosing a hawk right away. New falconers should take their time researching reputable breeders andsources for different species. Getting the right bird is worth the wait.
With good judgment, advice from experienced mentors, and properly setting your expectations as a beginner, your chances of success will be high. The most important step is choosing a hawk species well-suited for you.
Obtaining Proper Permits and Licenses
Before acquiring any hawk, it is essential to secure all required state and federal falconry permits and licenses. These will include a state falconry license, state and federal permits for capturing or transferring raptors, and a federal raptor captive-breeding license if purchasing from a breeder.
Make sure you have all necessary credentials in place first. Practicing falconry without proper permitting can lead to confiscation of the hawk, fines, and even criminal charges in some areas.
Cost Considerations
From housing, equipment, veterinary bills, food, and permits, there are costs associated with obtaining and caring for any hawk. Some species will incur more expenses than others.
For example, large hawks require expansive flight cages and more food. Do your homework to estimate costs and ensure you have the financial means for the hawk species you choose.
Joining a Falconry Club
One of the best resources for choosing your first hawk is to join a falconry club in your region. Getting to meet various hawks firsthand and learning from other members’ experiences will be invaluable.
Club members are also often willing to donate equipment and may know of good deals on hawks for sale. Having a community to turn to for mentorship and camaraderie makes getting started much easier.
Benefits of Different Hawk Species
To summarize some benefits of popular hawk species for beginners:
Species | Benefits |
---|---|
Red-tailed hawk | Hardy, easy to train, low maintenance |
Harris’s hawk | Naturally social, great hunting instincts |
American kestrel | Small size, easy care, good for beginners |
Red-shouldered hawk | Adaptable, trainable, tolerant temperament |
Final Tips for Choosing Your First Hawk
Here are a few final tips for beginners looking to select their first hawk for falconry:
- Learn as much as possible beforehand from books, online resources, and experienced falconers.
- Be realistic about your current skill level and how much time you can devote.
- Find a reputable breeder and have all permits in order before acquiring a hawk.
- Choose a species that matches your experience level and interests.
- Partner with an experienced mentor or join a falconry club for guidance.
- Be patient – don’t rush the process of selecting the right hawk.
- Set yourself up for success by starting with an easier species like a red-tail or Harris’s hawk.
Following these tips will help you make a well-informed decision when embarking on your exciting falconry journey. With preparation and dedication, training your first hawk will be a rewarding experience!