How does one ethically source a raptor for falconry?

Acquiring a raptor from a licensed breeder or rescue organization is the most ethical way to source a bird for falconry. Licensed breeders are regulated and adhere to specific standards that ensure the health and well-being of the birds. These breeders engage in responsible breeding practices that help maintain the populations of various raptor species while ensuring that the birds are suitable for falconry.

Additionally, obtaining birds from rescue organizations contributes to conservation efforts by providing homes for raptors that cannot be released back into the wild due to injury or other factors. This not only supports the rescue community but also promotes awareness about the challenges these birds face in their natural habitats.

Using these methods ensures that the falconry practice is sustainable and respects the welfare of the birds, distinguishing it from capturing wild raptors, which can negatively impact wild populations and disrupt ecosystems. Trading with other falconers is often less regulated and can lead to ethical concerns regarding the provenance of the bird, while breeding oneself, while potentially ethical, may not always be feasible for every falconer as it requires extensive knowledge, resources, and experience.