An apprentice falconer may conduct abatement activities only as what?

The guidance surrounding abatement activities for apprentice falconers is clear: they can only participate in these activities as a subpermittee under the supervision of a master falconer who possesses an abatement permit. This requirement ensures that apprentice falconers receive adequate oversight and training from more experienced practitioners, which is crucial for both the safety of the bird and the success of the abatement efforts.

Abatement involves the use of trained birds of prey to control unwanted wildlife, and it requires a specific skill set and knowledge base that an apprentice may not yet fully possess. Therefore, being a subpermittee allows the apprentice to gain valuable hands-on experience while working closely with a master falconer who can guide them through the nuances of the practice.

This structure fosters a mentorship model vital for the responsible practice of falconry, ensuring that less experienced falconers are not operating independently in a complex and potentially hazardous field.