How to Choose Your First Raptor: A Step‑by‑Step Guide for New Falconry Apprentices

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The moment you decide to take up falconry, the biggest question isn’t “how do I train a bird?” but “which bird should I start with?” Picking the right raptor sets the tone for every lesson to come, and it can mean the difference between a hobby that lifts you up and one that drags you down.

Why the Right Choice Matters

A first raptor is more than a pet; it’s a partner in a centuries‑old craft. The bird will test your patience, your schedule, and even your finances. If you choose a species that clashes with your daily life, you’ll find yourself frustrated, and the bird will sense that tension. A good match, on the other hand, makes learning feel natural and keeps both of you eager for the next flight.

Step 1 – Look at Your Lifestyle

Work Hours and Travel

Do you work a nine‑to‑five job, or are you on call at odd hours? A peregrine falcon, for example, needs a lot of high‑speed training and may want to fly early in the morning. If you’re often out of town, a larger bird like a red‑tailed hawk, which can handle longer periods of rest, might be a better fit.

Space at Home

You’ll need a mews (the bird’s indoor coop) and a place to tether the bird for training. A small barn owl can live comfortably in a modest mews, while a golden eagle will demand a larger, sturdier setup. Measure the space you have before you fall in love with a picture in a book.

Family and Pets

Kids and other pets add extra variables. A bird of prey is instinctively protective of its food and may see a curious cat as a threat. If you have a bustling household, a species known for a calmer temperament—like a goshawk—can be easier to manage.

Step 2 – Know the Species Basics

Size and Strength

Small raptors (e.g., merlins, kestrels) are lighter and easier to handle for a beginner. They require less powerful equipment and are less likely to cause injury if something goes wrong. Larger birds (e.g., hawks, eagles) bring more power but also more responsibility.

Temperament

Every species has a typical temperament, but individual birds vary. Some hawks are naturally bold, while certain falcons can be shy. Talk to experienced falconers about the personality traits you’re likely to encounter.

Legal Requirements

Each state or country has its own licensing rules. Some species need a higher permit level. Check the local wildlife agency before you set your heart on a bird that you can’t legally keep.

Step 3 – Talk to Your Mentor

Apprenticeship programs are the backbone of modern falconry. A solid foundation includes understanding the essential gear and training tips. Your mentor knows which birds are currently available, which ones have good health records, and which ones have a temperament that matches a new apprentice. Bring a list of your lifestyle answers to the conversation; a good mentor will help you narrow the field.

Step 4 – Visit a Raptor Center

Seeing birds up close does wonders for your decision. Watch how a bird reacts to a handler, how it moves in its mews, and how it takes food. Ask the staff about the bird’s health history and any quirks. If a bird seems nervous around people, that may signal a longer training curve.

Step 5 – Assess Your Budget

Initial Costs

A first raptor can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a small falcon to several thousand for a larger hawk. Add the price of a proper mews, a perch, a jesses (the leg straps), and a basic set of training equipment.

Ongoing Expenses

Food is a big line item. A kestrel may eat a few hundred grams of mice a week; a larger hawk can need a kilogram or more. Veterinary checks, licensing renewals, and occasional gear replacement also add up. Write a simple spreadsheet to see if the numbers fit your budget.

Step 6 – Think About Long‑Term Goals

Do you want to hunt small game, or are you aiming for larger quarry? Your ultimate aim will influence the species you choose. A hobbyist who wants to enjoy the thrill of a fast dive may gravitate toward a peregrine, while someone interested in conservation work might opt for a species native to their region.

Step 7 – Make the Commitment

Once you’ve weighed lifestyle, species traits, legalities, mentorship, and budget, it’s time to decide. Remember, the first raptor is a learning tool, not a trophy. Choose a bird that will teach you patience, respect, and the joy of flight. When you finally bring the bird home, give it a quiet day to settle, and start with simple handling before you move on to the first perch training.

A Quick Checklist

• [ ] Do my work hours allow for daily training?
• [ ] Is my home space adequate for a mews?
• [ ] Have I spoken with a licensed mentor?
• [ ] Have I visited a raptor center and observed the bird’s behavior?
• [ ] Do I understand the legal permits required?
• [ ] Have I budgeted for food, gear, and vet visits?
• [ ] Does the bird match my long‑term hunting or conservation goals?

For a printable version, see the complete beginner’s checklist.

Cross those boxes, and you’ll feel confident that you’ve chosen a partner who will grow with you. The first flight together is a moment you’ll never forget—so pick a bird that lets that moment be pure joy, not frustration.

When I first held a young red‑tailed hawk in my hands, I remember the sudden rush of wind from its wings and the quiet confidence in its eyes. That feeling is why I write for The Falconer’s Apprentice: to help newcomers find that same spark, one step at a time.