Limited falconry capture season opens in Montana

FALCONRY – Montana’s first nonresident falconry collection season has opened through March 31 when falconers can collect chicks from the nest. But the number of participants is strictly limited.

Montana approved the nonresident capture provision because some Montana falconers wanted reciprocity with other states.

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks allows only one nonresident permit to collect a young falcon. Up to an additional five in-state licensed falconers are allowed to capture chicks.

Jay Sumner of the Montana Peregrine Institute says most falconers add to their flock by going to breeders of captive birds that have more popular varieties than the native Montana peregrines.

The state has about 90 licensed falconers, but only 40 actively fly birds.