--- title: How to Choose Your First Raptor: A Step‑by‑Step Guide for New Falconry Apprentices siteUrl: https://logzly.com/falconersapprentice author: falconersapprentice (The Falconer's Apprentice) date: 2026-06-21T20:06:13.022973 tags: [falconry, raptor, apprentice] url: https://logzly.com/falconersapprentice/how-to-choose-your-first-raptor-a-stepbystep-guide-for-new-falconry-apprentices --- **Disclosure: We are reader supported, and earn affiliate commissions when you buy through us.** 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Daily+life&tag=organizationtip101-20), 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=legal+requirements&tag=organizationtip101-20) 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=solid+foundation&tag=organizationtip101-20) includes understanding the [essential gear and training tips](/falconersapprentice/starting-your-falconry-journey-essential-gear-and-training-tips-for-new-apprentices). Your mentor knows which birds are currently available, which ones have good [health records](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Health+records&tag=organizationtip101-20), 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](/falconersapprentice/starting-your-falconry-journey-essential-gear-and-training-tips-for-new-apprentices). ### 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=simple+spreadsheet&tag=organizationtip101-20) 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=vet+visits&tag=organizationtip101-20)? - [ ] Does the bird match my long‑term hunting or conservation goals? For a printable version, see the [complete beginner’s checklist](/falconersapprentice/the-complete-beginners-checklist-for-starting-a-falconry-apprenticeship). 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.