Raptor Propagation and Falconry

The Falconry Permit pertains to the securing and use of birds of prey for hunting.

Ø     If you are interested in becoming a falconer and would like more information, please call 1-800-858-1549 to have an information packet sent to you.

Ø     Three classes of joint federal/state falconry permits are available:  apprentice, general, and master (see link to state regulations for details on each level). 

Ø     To obtain any class of permit, an applicant MUST submit the following materials: (1) completed federal and state falconry permit application (joint application, 2 pages); (2) one check payable to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) for $75 and one check payable to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for $100 (do NOT send one check for the entire amount); and (3) facilities and equipment inspection form signed by a KDFWR law enforcement officer.  All completed applications must include the applicant’s signature as well as a signature from a KDFWR law enforcement officer.

Ø     Upon receipt of a completed application, inspection form, and fees, the application will be forwarded to the USFWS for processing.  The final permit will be issued and sent to the applicant by the USFWS in Atlanta , GA.

Ø     Apprentice applicants: required to take an examination administered by KDFWR and score at least an 80% before submitting their application.  Contact your local KDFWR law enforcement officer to administer the exam.  A letter from a licensed falconer (holding at least a general level permit) indicating his/her willingness to be your sponsor must also accompany the apprentice’s application.

Ø     Falconry permits are valid for a period of 3 years from the date of issue.

Ø     Holders of Kentucky falconry permits must possess a valid annual Kentucky hunting license before taking any raptor from the wild.

Ø     Wildlife may be taken within state hunting seasons and bag limits with any legal hunting raptor provided the falconer has in possession a valid state/federal falconry permit and a valid hunting license.  Note: falconry hunting is closed during the opening weekend of modern firearms for deer.

Ø     A migratory bird acquisition and disposition report (Form 3-186A) must be submitted when any raptor is transferred, released, acquired, captured, or re-banded.  The form should be sent to the following: (1) original and a copy to the USFWS; (2) retain a personal copy; and (3) send a copy to KDFWR (Attn. Shawchyi Vorisek) #1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort , KY   40601 .