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Falconers train and hunt with hawks and falcons — a licensed, apprenticeship-based pursuit built on the welfare of a bird of prey. In Arizona it takes experience and AZGFD permits, not a degree, to practice. Here's the roadmap, with the Arizona licensing path and where the work is.
Where to learn in Arizona
In Arizona, as everywhere in the US, you start by finding a sponsor and serving a roughly two-year apprenticeship under a general or master falconer. The Arizona Falconers Association is the main place to find a sponsor, mentorship, and other falconers.
Licensing in Arizona
Arizona regulates falconry through the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), under combined state and federal rules. You pass the written exam, build approved facilities, pass an inspection, and earn your apprentice license — then advance to general and master falconer over years.
Where the Arizona work is
Arizona is strong falconry country — open desert and quarry like Gambel's quail and jackrabbits make for a long season. Falconry is mostly a way of life, but the skills lead to paid work here: bird abatement at vineyards (Sonoita and Willcox wine country), farms, and landfills, plus education programs and raptor rehabilitation.
Ready to start? Browse live Arizona opportunities — internships, training programs, and scholarships across the state.
Experience and your bird's welfare are the credential — not a degree
Falconry rewards dedication and the daily care of a raptor, not a diploma. Find a sponsor, serve an apprenticeship, pass the exam and facilities inspection, and earn your license — then advance to general and master over years. The skills carry into paid abatement, education programs, and raptor rehabilitation.
Keep going: see whether the trades are worth it, compare becoming a fly tier, and check if it will pay off.