It is unlawful for any person to possess a raptor or to train a raptor in the practice of falconry without either a falconry license or a raptor propagation license. Raptor means all birds of the orders falconiformes and strigiformes, commonly called falcons, hawks, eagles, ospreys, and owls. The only owl authorized under a falconry license to be used in the practice of falconry is the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus).
There are three classes of falconry licenses: the apprentice class, the general class, and the master class. In order to apply for an apprentice falconry license, you must first obtain a sponsor who is a master falconer and will take responsibility for your two years of training as an apprentice. You must also satisfactorily pass an examination concerning falconry (80% or more of the questions must be correctly answered) and satisfactorily construct a facility to hold raptors. Only then can one apply for the actual apprentice falconry. The license application fee is in two parts: $25 application fee to FWP for the state falconry license and $100 to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the federal falconry license. If the examination and inspection of facilities has been satisfactorily completed, a 3 year falconry license will be issued. After 2 years as an apprentice falconer, a general falconers license may be obtained. A master class falconers permit may be issued only after an individual has at least 5 years experience as a general falconer. An apprentice falconer may only possess an American kestrel (Falco sparverium) or a red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis). There are other limitations concerning the species of raptors that may be possessed and/or taken from the wild as replacement birds for the general falconer and master falconer classes.
A falconer is licensed both though the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FWP. All raptors held in captivity must be banded and that band number registered with both the state and USFWS.
The department has prepared a free manual entitled “Montana Falconry Guidelines” which is available to those interested in the sport of falconry. Contact your local FWP regional office to request the free manual.
