What requirements must be met for capturing a raptor from the wild?

To capture a raptor from the wild, the individual must be a general or master falconer. This requirement is in place to ensure that the captor has the necessary training and understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of falconry, as well as the skills required to handle and care for raptors. General and master falconers have proven their abilities through rigorous training, including knowledge of species, proper equipment usage, and techniques for maintaining the health and wellbeing of the bird.

This licensing process emphasizes the importance of experienced and knowledgeable individuals being involved in the capture and care of wild raptors, as it helps promote sustainable practices in falconry and protects both the birds and the ecosystem. Other options, such as being a licensed hunter, having a physician's statement, or possessing prior experience outside of the structured framework of falconry licensing, do not provide the same level of assurance regarding a person’s capability to ethically and responsibly capture and handle these wild birds.