Does falcon hunting require a license?
Many countries require permits to hunt and transport falcons.[1] These permits can be expensive and often take a long time to obtain, however, if a hunter does not obtain a permit before hunting a falcon, they may face severe fines or prison time, for example If a hawk is hunted without a permit in the United States, the hunter will face 6 months in prison and a $15,000 fine. It is also forbidden to harm hawks, so they should not be shot in an attempt to get rid of them.[2]
How to hunt falcons
Effective methods must be used to hunt falcons, and before starting hunting, the hunter must know the conditions for hunting falcons in the country in which he wishes to hunt, noting that falcons are predatory animals that are not hunted to be kept in homes, they can only be hunted for transport.
Falcon hunting using the Swedish goshawk trap
There are many types of hawk traps available for use, however, the Swedish goshawk trap is a favorite for inexperienced hawk hunters. These traps can be purchased online or made under the supervision of an experienced hunter. This trap allows a hawk to be captured humanely without He is injured or his legs are tangled in the ropes. The trap consists of a cage for bait that attracts the falcon inside, then another cage at the entrance that traps the falcon. [2] To use the Swedish goshawk trap, the following procedures must be followed:
Place the trap in an area that the falcon frequents frequently.
Make sure the bird can see the trap in flight, because if it is placed under a tree, it may not be able to see it.
Ensure easy access to the trap, by checking the trap several times.
Providing bait to attract the falcon towards the trap, such as using pigeons, birds, or mice. It is worth noting that most goshawk traps contain a bait cage to protect the bait from being harmed, and after catching the falcon, the bait can be released.
Review the manufacturer's instructions to learn how to place bait in the trap.
Check the trap at least twice a day. The Swedish goshawk trap protects the falcon from other predators, but the bird can become dehydrated or overheat if left alone for too long.
A trap can be made in many forms using a simple wire box. The bait is placed inside the wire box and nooses are tied along the top like a chain. When the hawk flies down to catch the bait (rats, for example), it will grab the wire box, and the hawk will not be able to try to retreat, because its claws will clash. With nooses, you must ensure that the bird is not able to escape, through heavy weights attached along the chain, so that these large birds are not able to carry the trap away.
The best time to hunt falcons
Early morning and dawn are usually considered the best time to hunt falcons and other birds, because they are hungry. Evening may also be good, as birds that have not eaten that day feel desperate and go down to the trap to eat the bait. It is also preferable for the weather to be cloudy and cold, because In a cold spell, birds drain a lot of energy and search for more food.
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