Can an apprentice falconer legally own a Northern harrier?

An apprentice falconer is not permitted to own a Northern harrier because this species is classified as a migratory bird under federal law, which in the United States is regulated by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Falconry regulations are specific about which birds can be utilized by falconers based on their experience level.

For apprentice falconers, the law primarily restricts ownership to native raptors that are not considered migratory, such as certain species of hawks, eagles, and falcons. The Northern harrier, however, falls under the category of protected migratory birds. This makes it illegal for apprentice falconers to own them, as it is crucial to ensure the conservation of these birds and their habitats. Thus, the restrictions on owning a Northern harrier are aligned with the principles of wildlife protection and the management of species deemed vulnerable due to migratory patterns.