--- title: Starting Your Falconry Journey: Essential Gear and Training Tips for New Apprentices siteUrl: https://logzly.com/falconersapprentice author: falconersapprentice (The Falconer's Apprentice) date: 2026-06-19T00:05:58.874726 tags: [falconry, apprentice, birdofprey] url: https://logzly.com/falconersapprentice/starting-your-falconry-journey-essential-gear-and-training-tips-for-new-apprentices --- **Disclosure: We are reader supported, and earn affiliate commissions when you buy through us.** 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=leather+straps&tag=organizationtip101-20) 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=metal+rod&tag=organizationtip101-20) 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. For a quick reference, check the **[complete beginner’s checklist](/falconersapprentice/the-complete-beginners-checklist-for-starting-a-falconry-apprenticeship)** to make sure you have everything before you start. ## 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. **[How to choose your first raptor](/falconersapprentice/how-to-choose-your-first-raptor-a-stepbystep-guide-for-new-falconry-apprentices)** provides deeper insight into each species’ needs and 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: 1. Hold the glove flat, palm up, a few inches from the perch. 2. Call the bird’s name in a soft, steady tone. 3. When the bird looks at you, gently tap the glove with your other hand. 4. 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=secret+ingredient&tag=organizationtip101-20). ### 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=vet+visit&tag=organizationtip101-20) every six months. Look for signs of injury – drooping feathers, [loss of appetite](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=loss+of+appetite&tag=organizationtip101-20), 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](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=learning+a+new+language&tag=organizationtip101-20) – you need the [right tools](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=right+tools&tag=organizationtip101-20), 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.