Falcons are beautiful and powerful birds, and it's no wonder that many people are interested in keeping them as pets. However, there are a number of things to consider before you decide if a falcon is the right pet for you.

Can You Have a Pet Falcon?

Falconry Laws and Regulations

In most countries, it is illegal to keep a falcon as a pet without a license. The requirements for obtaining a falconry license vary from country to country, but typically you will need to pass a test on falconry techniques and care, and you will need to have a suitable place to keep your falcon.

Housing and Training Falcons

Falcons need a large, secure enclosure that is at least 10 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 8 feet high. The enclosure should be made of strong materials that can withstand the falcon's sharp talons and beak. The falcon should also be provided with a perch, a nest box, and a water bath.

Falcons require a lot of training in order to be safe and obedient pets. You will need to teach your falcon to come when called, to stay on your fist, and to hunt.

Feeding Falcons

Falcons are carnivores and their diet should consist primarily of small rodents, birds, and rabbits. You can either purchase these prey animals from a pet store or you can hunt them yourself.

Falcons need to eat about 10% of their body weight in food each day. This means that a 1-pound falcon will need to eat about 1/10 of a pound of food per day.

Veterinary Care

Falcons need regular veterinary care, just like any other pet. You should take your falcon to the vet for checkups at least once a year. The vet will check your falcon's weight, feathers, and overall health.

Falcons can also get sick, just like any other pet. Some common falcon diseases include avian influenza, aspergillosis, and falcon pox.

Conclusion

Keeping a falcon as a pet is a big responsibility. You need to be prepared to provide your falcon with the proper housing, training, food, and veterinary care. If you are not prepared to make this commitment, then a falcon is not the right pet for you.