What Is Falconry?

Falconry is an age old sport filled with tradition. It is challenging, demanding, and when practiced right, very rewarding. So what is falconry? Put simply, falconry is the process of conditioning a raptor to hunt and share its quarry with man. It is a natural hunting relationship between man and bird where both work as a team to catch wild game species. To most falconers, falconry is a way of life rather than just a sport or a hobby. Falconry is a very demanding art, practiced by a relatively small group of enthusiasts, and is built on the premise that to be successful, one must first gain the trust of the bird through positive reinforcement, kindness, and patience. Most falconers would sum up falconry as a sophisticated form of bird watching where the falconer is forever seeking the next flight at game and to witness again the special skills that raptors use.

We hope this introduction to the Texas Hawking Association will be helpful. Membership is the best way to stay informed on what is going on with falconry in the state.

More information on how to join and why can be found on the THA's Falconry FAQ's page: http://texashawking.org/faqs.htm

Activities and Publications of the Texas Hawking Association

THA Annual Field Meet:  

This meet is usually held in mid-January and is an opportunity for members to hunt together, share experiences and techniques, and renew friendships with falconers from around the state.

While there may be more than one presentation on a falconry related subject during the weekend, a program with a keynote speaker is presented at our banquet. These programs have been presented by several nationally-known writers, falconers, and speakers. Falconry related equipment, books, and art are also available.

Mini-meets:  

Mini-meets are held where and whenever several falconers want to get together and fly their birds. These meets are usually scheduled with short notice and are casual affairs built around hunting. Check out the "Upcoming Events" page for the next scheduled event.

THA Annual Summer Camp and Picnic:  

THA holds a summer camp and picnic where members and their families get together out of the hunting season. The picnic is usually a pot-luck lunch.

Publications:  

The Texas Hawking Association publishes four quarterly newsletters each year. The On The Wing keeps members updated on falconry issues and events in the state.  It is a compilation of articles written by members, articles from other publications, and a synopsis of what has taken place over the course of the year. This is a quality publication and considered the best in the nation by many.
.

How To Become  Falconer:  

To become a falconer, one must acquire a state and federal falconry permit. Write to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and request a falconry permit application packet.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
4200 Smith School Rd.
Austin, TX 78744
Attn: Jennifer Brennan
Email: jennifer.brennan@tpwd.state.tx.us

The packet will include a copy of regulations, requirements of age, equipment, and facilities. Additionally, a written test must be passed and a general or master-class sponsor must be willing to accept you as an apprentice falconer.

The apprentice falconer should seek a sponsor who is reasonably close and available. While many excellent books on falconry are available, a sponsor has the "hands-on" experience that is necessary to keep a raptor healthy. The apprentice should also find a sponsor before building required facilities and making or buying any equipment. While some apprentices like to do things for themselves, the advice and experience of a sponsor should be sought and accepted. The apprentice/sponsor relationship puts demands and responsibilities on both parties and should not be taken lightly.

The Texas Hawking Association has an Apprentice Coordinator who can assist you through the process of becoming a falconer. New apprentice falconers are encouraged to contact the Apprentice Coordinator for help in finding a sponsor, assistance with facility and equipment questions, or answer questions concerning apprentice falconry. 

If you are interested and would like more, please take the time to read the THA's Falconry FAQ's page at: http://texashawking.org/faqs.htm

Membership applications are available by clicking on the following link:
Membership Application

Secretary / Treasurer
Brandi Quick

P.O. Box 266

Jacksboro, TX 76458

phone: 940.507.0333
e-mail:  treasurer @ texashawking.org

We hope to get to know you.