Official agency sources first, then plain-language guides written for newcomers. Choose a topic below.
Official agency
Links to KDFWR, USFWS and federal rule text. These control.
KFA summary
General education written for this site. Not legal guidance.
Not vet advice
For any health concern, contact a qualified avian veterinarian.
KFA summary
KFA's beginner's guide: what falconry is, what it is not, and the path from first questions to an apprentice permit.
External site
An introduction to the sport from the North American Falconers Association, the national falconry organization.
External site
An independent educational site written for people starting out in falconry, with sections on birds, history and equipment.
KFA summary
Most of falconry happens off the field. A typical week during the season includes weighing the bird (often daily) and recording it; feeding a measured, appropriate diet; cleaning the mews, perches and bath; checking feet, feathers, equipment and behavior; and getting the bird out to hunt regularly on land where you have permission.
General education, not legal or veterinary advice.
Official agency
The Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources falconry page. Start here for current state requirements, forms and contacts.
Official agency
The state application form. Check the KDFWR falconry page first to confirm you have the current version and current fee.
Official agency
The KDFWR inspection report used when your mews and equipment are inspected. Review it with your sponsor before you build.
Official agency
A short KDFWR overview. Use it alongside the full regulations, not instead of them.
Official agency
Federal falconry standards are in 50 CFR Part 21. Older guides cite section 21.29; the federal rules were reorganized in 2022, so search for falconry within Part 21.
Official agency
Federal agency for migratory bird permits. Search the site for falconry and for form 3-186A to find current reporting guidance on acquiring, transferring or losing a raptor.
Official agency
Falconry is hunting. Check the KDFWR site for which hunting license and hunter education requirements apply to you.
KFA summary
Ask experienced falconers and your sponsor which vets in your region treat raptors. Call ahead to confirm they see birds of prey, and learn the after-hours options and the nearest emergency clinic. Keep weight records and notes handy, and budget for exams, diagnostics and emergency care before you trap or acquire a bird.
General education only. It does not replace professional veterinary advice.
KFA summary
Falconers manage a bird’s condition through careful weighing and feeding. Small changes matter, especially for small species. Record weight, food given, weather and how the bird flew every day, and learn from your sponsor how to read those records. Sudden changes in weight, appetite, droppings or behavior call for prompt advice from an experienced falconer and a vet.
General education, not veterinary advice.
KFA summary
A mews protects the bird from weather, predators and disturbance, and gives safe perching and clean footing. A weathering area lets the bird sit out in fresh air and sun. Construction standards are set by state and federal rules and confirmed at your KDFWR inspection, so build to the current regulations, not to a photo or a forum post.
Not legal guidance. See KDFWR for current standards.
KFA summary
The peregrine falcon disappeared from much of North America in the mid-1900s, largely because of DDT. Captive-breeding and release techniques developed with falconry knowledge, and many falconers who volunteered their skills, played a well-documented part in its recovery. Falconers continue to contribute through raptor knowledge, habitat awareness and responsible, regulated take of wild birds.
Official agency
Raptors are protected under federal migratory bird law. Explore the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service migratory bird program for conservation background.
Official agency
KDFWR's page on the peregrine falcon in Kentucky.
KFA summary
Books long recommended to apprentices. Ask your sponsor which to read first.
KFA summary
Subjects to study before the state exam: care and maintenance, equipment, health care, hunting techniques, training, and federal and state regulations.
Contact KDFWR for current exam format, passing score and scheduling.
External site
The national falconry association: membership, publications and information about falconry across North America.
Community
Join the Kentucky falconry Facebook group for news, gatherings and conversation with Kentucky falconers.
KFA summary
Hawkeye Falconry Supply, Mike’s Falconry, Northwoods Falconry, Western Sporting, Pineo Falconry, Craigleash, Prime Falconry, falconry bells by Dave Noble, Marshall Telemetry, Coturnix quail from Roger Johnson, and Chicken Hawk Food.
Listing is not an endorsement. Ask your sponsor before buying equipment.
Ask KFA. If we do not know, we will point you to someone who does.