Where to Start: If you are just a beginner and have not received your falconry permits, go hunting with a licensed falconer to hold you over, please do not break the law. If want to become a falconer contact the state you live in and ask for the Falconry Apprentice information. It will instruct you on the laws, equipment, and other requirements you will need to acquire. Once you have a sponsor and all the proper equipment, get the inspection, and take the test you will need to be patience for your permit to come in.

The place any falconer should start before training a bird is either in the living room or on the phone with someone who has successfully trained that particular species. There is no way to get all the information from one source, but with multiple resources you are likely to get the right information at some point. Training a Kestrel requires a lot and is different than training a Red-Tailed hawk, Merlin, or any other bird. Training each individual Kestrel will even differ slightly depending on many different variables. The best way to learn how to train kestrels is with the help of someone else who has been successful, and is willing to guide you with the proper hands on methods.

The basic equipment for training a kestrel remains the same for the most part. You can start with the list at the bottom of the page as a minimum. It is same list needed for most other birds. Once you have the gear and facilities contact your sponsor and set up a day during trapping season for both of you to trap your new bird. Remember the goal is to get the bird coming to you instantaneously for free flight and then go hunting. The sooner you get the bird focused on hunting the better off you are.

I will describe each of the basic items in depth at a later time.