Falconry, the ancient art of hunting with trained birds of prey, often sparks curiosity about the relationship between humans and these magnificent creatures. A common question that arises for those unfamiliar with falconry is: Can You Pet A Falcon? The answer, while not a simple yes or no, delves into the unique world of falconry and the distinct bond between a falconer and their bird.
Falconry is far more than simply keeping a bird of prey; it’s a deep commitment to training and working with a raptor for hunting purposes. Historically dating back to 2000 BC, falconry emerged as a practical method of obtaining food, long before firearms. In Alberta, Canada, falconry is recognized as a legitimate recreational activity under the Wildlife Act since 1981. It’s considered a high-input, low-impact interaction with wildlife, emphasizing conservation and respect for these birds and their natural environment.
What is Falconry?
Falconry is defined by the use of a trained bird of prey to hunt wild game in its natural state. This practice is deeply rooted in tradition and requires extensive knowledge of raptor behavior, training techniques, and ecological understanding. The Alberta Falconry Association (AFA) plays a crucial role in promoting responsible falconry, focusing on raptor and prey conservation and ethical conduct among falconers. The AFA’s members include individuals with diverse expertise, from active falconers to those involved in breeding programs, research, and raptor rehabilitation. The association’s tiered ranking system, from Novice to Master Falconer, ensures that practitioners are knowledgeable and skilled, upholding a strict code of ethics and continuously learning about these specialized birds.
The Falconer-Falcon Relationship: More Partnership Than Pet
While the idea of petting a falcon might conjure images of domestic animals like dogs or cats, the relationship between a falconer and a falcon is fundamentally different. Falconry birds are not pets in the traditional sense. They are highly trained hunting partners, and the bond is built on mutual respect and understanding rather than affection in a human sense.
Falconers invest significant time and effort in training their birds. This training establishes a working relationship based on trust and reliance. The falcon learns to respond to the falconer’s commands, not out of a desire for petting or cuddling, but because the falconer provides food and opportunities for hunting, fulfilling the bird’s natural instincts. The satisfaction for a falconer comes not from treating the bird as a pet, but from witnessing the incredible skill and natural hunting prowess of their trained raptor in flight.
Why Falcons Aren’t Pets
Several reasons contribute to why falcons are not suitable as pets:
- Wild Nature: Raptors, including falcons, are inherently wild animals. Even when trained for falconry, their instincts remain untamed. They are solitary predators by nature and do not seek companionship in the same way as domesticated animals.
- Training Purpose: Falconry training is geared towards hunting and specific responses, not domestication. The birds are trained to work with the falconer in a hunting context, a far cry from the pet-owner dynamic.
- Lack of Affection: Falcons do not display affection towards humans in the way dogs or cats do. They may tolerate the falconer and learn to associate them with food, but they are not capable of reciprocating petting or other forms of physical affection as a domestic pet would.
- Alberta Regulations: In Alberta, and many other regions, raptors cannot be kept as pets. Falconry permits are specifically for the practice of falconry, with strict regulations on housing, care, and training. These regulations underscore that these birds are not intended to be pets.
Becoming a Falconer: Dedication and Commitment
Falconry is not a casual hobby; it demands immense dedication, time, and resources. The Alberta government regulations reflect this commitment, requiring individuals to:
- Be a resident of Alberta for at least six months.
- Be at least 14 years old (with parental consent if under 16).
- Construct approved housing for the raptor.
- Become a member of the Alberta Falconry Association.
- Enter an apprenticeship program under experienced falconers.
The apprenticeship scheme is crucial, restricting the species and number of birds a novice can possess and requiring a written exam to progress. This rigorous process ensures that falconers are properly educated and understand the profound responsibilities involved in caring for and training a raptor. Falconry is a lifestyle choice, demanding daily attention to the bird’s needs, training, and well-being, often described as more of a way of life than a mere hobby. It is definitely not for individuals seeking a low-maintenance pet or a fleeting interest.
Falconry Regulations and Bird Welfare
Alberta falconry permits strictly regulate the possession and trafficking of falconry birds, ensuring responsible practices and bird welfare. There are recreational and commercial permits, each with specific conditions regarding the number of birds and permissible activities. All falconry birds must be under the care of an AFA member, registered with the Fisheries and Wildlife Management Division, and permanently banded for identification.
Permitted falconry birds in Alberta include 12 species of raptors, such as the American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, and Red-tailed Hawk. Novice falconers are limited to specific species known for being more manageable for beginners. Falconers typically obtain birds through import permits, collection permits (taking chicks from nests responsibly, leaving at least one nestling), or by acquiring captive-bred birds. Buying, selling, or bartering wild-caught Alberta raptors is prohibited, emphasizing conservation and sustainability.
In Conclusion
So, can you pet a falcon? While you might not “pet” a falcon in the same way you would a domesticated animal, falconry offers a unique and profound interaction with these magnificent birds. It’s a relationship built on respect, training, and a shared pursuit of the hunt, rather than on cuddles and affection. Falconry is a demanding art, a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature and wildlife conservation, and a world away from traditional pet ownership. For those drawn to the majesty of raptors and the ancient tradition of falconry, the path requires serious dedication, a deep understanding of these birds, and a commitment to ethical and responsible practices. If you are interested in learning more, reaching out to the Alberta Falconry Association is an excellent first step to understanding this captivating world.
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