SASKATCHEWAN

For most people Falconry becomes a lifelong passion in which they never stop learning about the Art of Falconry. 

 

Through its experienced Members the SFC proudly offers a scheme where the beginning Falconer can learn with the help of a Mentor the vital knowledge he needs to be a successful falconer. 

The process of completing a successful apprenticeship has no strictly defined time limit, but is widely recognized throughout North America and by the SFC that it will require a minimum of two years to achieve the necessary standard and show the requisite dedication that the sport requires. 

 

Before getting too involved the would-be apprentice needs to consider seriously whether they have the time and money that the sport requires from the individual. Getting a hawk is one thing, looking after it 365 days a year, tending to its every need, feeding it, paying for veterinary treatment, providing the necessary housing and equipment all take time and money. 
 

Apprenticeships usually proceed in three important phases. 

​

1. Acquisition. In this phase the beginning falconer acquires basic knowledge of the Sport through reading, online resources such as web sites and forums can all contribute to forming a basic understanding. The Falconer having decided on what species of hawk he would like to begin with then sets about acquiring all the necessary equipment and building his facilities for his hawk. Only when this has all been done to the satisfaction of the Club will the Club sponsor an apprentice for a hawk. ​
    

2. Handling and Basic Training. In this phase the Apprentice having been granted his first Permit by the Provincial Government obtains his first Hawk. Taking a strictly hands on approach and under the guidance of the mentor the Apprentice will equip his hawk with all the necessary gear. Once that is done the Apprentice learns the basics of training his hawk and how to handle and feed it. 
    

3. Flying and Hunting. Once the basic training is complete, of the hawk and falconer, they will be ready for their first free flights, which will lead onto the Sport itself – that of hunting wild quarry with a trained hawk in its natural environment.

 

HELPFUL LINKS

The Modern Apprentice

http://www.themodernapprentice.com/

 

California Hawking Club

http://www.calhawkingclub.org/index.php/falconry-apprenticeship/apprentice-bookshelf

 

NAFEX Forum see Postings Tagged Apprentice

http://www.nafex.net/forum.php

 

HELPFUL PDF DOCUMENTS
 

The following PDF documents supply additional downloadable information on SFC membership.

 

Saskatchewan Falconers Club

Describes the financial and time investment required to become a falconer, the objectives and responsibilities of falconry, required equipment, handling, training as well as recommended resources.