Starting Your Falconry Journey: Essential Gear and Training Tips for New Apprentices

You’ve probably seen a hawk swoop over a field and thought, “I want that freedom.” In today’s world, where screens keep us glued to desks, the pull of a real, beating wing is stronger than ever. If you’re ready to trade a mouse click for a feathered flight, here’s a down‑to‑earth guide to the gear you’ll need and the first steps in training. I’ve walked this path many times, and the lessons I learned the hard way are the ones I want to hand to you, fresh from the nest.

The Basics: What Every New Apprentice Must Have

1. The Glove – Your First Line of Defense

A good falconry glove is more than a leather mitten. It protects your hand from talons that can slice through steel. Look for a glove with a thick palm, reinforced stitching, and a snug fit. When I first tried on a cheap glove, the leather tore after a single “hop” from my kestrel. It was a painful reminder that cheap gear can cost you more in the long run.

2. The Hood – Calm the Beast

A hood (or “hoodie”) is a soft, padded cap that covers the bird’s eyes. It helps the raptor stay calm while you handle it. Choose a hood that fits snugly but isn’t too tight – you should be able to slip a finger between the hood and the bird’s head. I once borrowed a hood that was a size too small; the bird squawked like a kettle and I learned the hard way that comfort matters.

3. The Leash and Jesses – The Tether

Jesses are leather straps that go around the bird’s legs, and the leash attaches to them. They keep the bird close while you work on the ground. A good set of jesses is sturdy, has a quick‑release buckle, and is the right length for the species you’re training. My first set was too long, and my peregrine kept slipping out of reach during a practice flight. Trim them to a comfortable length and you’ll avoid that frustration.

4. The Perch – A Safe Landing Spot

A perch is a simple wooden or metal rod where the bird can rest. It should be stable, at a height that lets the bird feel secure, and have a non‑slip surface. I keep a few perches of different heights in my loft; the bird likes to choose the one that feels just right.

5. The Mews – Your Home Base

If you’re serious about apprenticeship, you’ll need a mews – a small, secure enclosure where the bird lives when not in flight. It must be predator‑proof, ventilated, and easy to clean. Think of it as the bird’s apartment. A well‑built mews reduces stress and keeps the bird healthy, which in turn speeds up training.

Choosing the Right Bird for a Beginner

Not every raptor is suited for a first‑time apprentice. Here are three common choices and why they work well for newcomers:

Red-tailed Hawk – Tough, adaptable, and forgiving of mistakes. Their size makes them easier to handle.
American Kestrel – Small, lively, and quick to learn. Perfect if you have limited space.
Gyrfalcon (for the bold) – Powerful and fast, but requires more commitment. Only consider if you have a mentor and a solid plan.

Talk to a licensed falconer or a reputable breeder before you decide. Their insight can save you weeks of trial and error.

First Training Steps: From Perch to Flight

H2: Building Trust Before the First Flight

The moment you bring a bird home, the priority is trust. Spend at least a week just letting the bird get used to your scent, voice, and the sound of your footsteps. Offer food from your hand, keep the environment calm, and avoid sudden movements. I remember my first kestrel, “Midge,” hopping onto my glove after a day of quiet sitting. That quiet was the foundation for everything that followed.

H3: The “Step‑Up” Exercise

The step‑up is the basic command that tells the bird to hop onto your glove. Here’s a simple way to teach it:

Hold the glove flat, palm up, a few inches from the perch.
Call the bird’s name in a soft, steady tone.
When the bird looks at you, gently tap the glove with your other hand.
Reward with a piece of mouse or a favorite treat the instant the bird lands.

Repeat this 5‑10 times a day. Consistency beats speed. If the bird hesitates, lower the glove a little and try again. Patience is the secret ingredient.

H3: Introducing the Leash

Once the bird steps up reliably, attach the leash. Let the bird walk a short distance while you hold the leash loosely. If the bird flies off, don’t chase – gently call it back and reward the return. The goal is to make the leash feel like a friendly rope, not a trap.

H2: The First Flight – When to Take Off

You’ll know the bird is ready for its first flight when:

It steps up without hesitation.
It stays calm with the hood on.
It responds to your voice and gestures.

Pick a clear, open field with no sudden wind gusts. Attach the leash, give a short “fly” cue, and let the bird launch. Keep the leash short at first – just enough to guide the bird back to you. Celebrate the moment; it’s a milestone for both of you.

Ongoing Care: Keeping Your Apprentice Healthy

Diet: Fresh, whole prey (mice, rats, quail) is the gold standard. Supplement with vitamins only if a vet advises.
Health Checks: Schedule a vet visit every six months. Look for signs of injury – drooping feathers, loss of appetite, or limping.
Exercise: Even when not flying, let the bird stretch its wings on a perch. Short, frequent flights keep muscles strong.

Finding a Mentor and Community

Falconry is a living tradition, passed down through apprenticeships. Join a local falconry club or attend a meet‑up. The Falconer’s Apprentice blog often highlights events where you can meet seasoned falconers. A mentor will help you avoid costly mistakes, share proven techniques, and keep you motivated when the training gets tough.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey

Starting falconry is like learning a new language – you need the right tools, patience, and a willingness to listen. The gear listed above is your toolbox; the training steps are your grammar. With each flight, you’ll discover a deeper bond with a creature that has ruled the skies for millennia.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to have a bird that flies; it’s to become a steward of a wild spirit. Treat your raptor with respect, keep learning, and the sky will open up in ways you never imagined.