Falconry Tips Basic Tips 1. Understand Local Regulations: Before you start, research your region's licensing and regulations. Falconry is highly regulated, so begin by contacting your local wildlife agency. 2. Apprenticeship: Falconry requires a licensed mentor to guide you. Seek an experienced falconer to help you learn techniques and handle a bird safely. 3. Bird Behavior Basics: Observe and study raptor body language to understand when they’re calm, alert, or stressed, which will help with early training. Pro Tips 1. Advanced Training Techniques: Master the art of "manning" (acclimating the bird to human presence) and recall training, which ensures your bird returns to you reliably. 2. Build Custom Equipment: Experiment with customizing gear like jesses, hoods, and perches for different environments and comfort for your raptor. 3. Track Health and Performance: Advanced falconers maintain logs for their birds' weight, flight performance, and dietary needs. This helps to fine-tune their bird's health and hunting performance over time. Birdwatching Tips Basic Tips 1. Start with a Good Field Guide: Find a field guide for your area or use a birding app. This will help you quickly identify birds by their color, shape, and size. 2. Binocular Basics: Invest in a good pair of binoculars and practice focusing on objects at various distances to prepare for spotting birds. 3. Be Patient and Quiet: Many birds are cautious around noise and movement. Approach viewing areas slowly and find a place to sit quietly. Pro Tips 1. Learn Calls and Songs: Identifying birds by sound opens up a whole new level of birdwatching. Use apps or recordings to learn their calls and songs for better field identification. 2. Seasonal Tracking: Pro birders track migratory patterns to anticipate when certain species will arrive in their region, allowing for strategic spotting. 3. Develop Photography Skills: Take clear, respectful photos by practicing patience and understanding lighting and focus techniques that won’t disturb the birds.