Join the 3 Day International Falconry Academy in Live Oak, Florida, for an intensive hands-on falconry workshop. Learn expert hawk handling and flight techniques while preparing to become a licensed apprentice falconer.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 full days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape to handle active outdoor hours including walking and bird handling.
Wildlife
History
Falconry in Florida dates back centuries, blending Native American and European traditions of bird hunting.
Conservation
The academy follows strict guidelines to ensure ethical treatment of birds and promotes sustainable falconry practices.
International Falconry Academy
Join the 3 Day International Falconry Academy in Live Oak, Florida, for an intensive hands-on falconry workshop. Learn expert hawk handling and flight techniques while preparing to become a licensed apprentice falconer.
International Falconry Academy, located in Live Oak, Florida, provides hands-on falconry training and bird-of-prey experiences for visitors of all ages. The Academy offers a broad range of programs including Morning Owl Prowls, Hawk Walks, full flight demonstrations, half- and full-day falconry excursions, nature photography sessions, and intensive two- and three-day apprentice courses.
Instruction combines fieldwork, hawk handling, free-flight demonstrations, and safety briefings delivered by trained handlers. Two-day and three-day courses include practical lessons, a comprehensive workbook, and essential gear intended to prepare participants for the licensed apprentice falconer pathway. Falconry Apprentice Workshops cover history, ethics, bird care, and the practical commitment required to pursue falconry responsibly.
Educational outreach targets schools, libraries, and camps with curriculum-friendly bird-of-prey programs that emphasize ecology, stewardship, and outdoor learning. Family-focused offerings, such as Hawk Walks and Morning Owl Prowls, center on guided observation and age-appropriate interaction with raptors in natural settings. Full flight demonstrations feature falcons, hawks, and owls flying overhead with close-view opportunities between performances. Nature photography sessions are scheduled in four- or eight-hour formats timed for optimal sunrise and sunset light.
Programs operate from the Live Oak facility and nearby habitats with small group sizes to support personalized instruction and maintain strict safety protocols. All activities prioritize responsible raptor care, conservation-minded education, and safe, memorable wildlife experiences.
Location
Live Oak, Florida
Accessible north Florida base
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Family to intensive course options
Session Lengths
1–8 hours
Flexible half-day to multi-day options
Educational Programs
School & camp visits
Curriculum-friendly raptor outreach
Reserve a Morning Owl Prowl, Hawk Walk, photography session, or an intensive apprentice course — limited spaces available for safe, hands-on raptor experiences.
Wear Long Sleeves and Gloves
Protect your arms from hawk talons with sturdy gloves and long-sleeve shirts during all handling sessions.
Stay Hydrated
Florida’s climate can be warm and humid; carry water and take regular breaks to stay comfortable.
Arrive on Time
The workshop schedule is tight with hands-on training; punctuality ensures you don’t miss critical sessions.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Expect some walking through natural terrain; supportive shoes will make your experience more enjoyable.
Protective falconry glove
Necessary for safe handling of hawks and protecting your arm from talons.
Sun hat
Keeps you shaded and cool during sunny outdoor training sessions.
summer
Lightweight rain jacket
Helpful for staying dry during sudden Florida rain showers.
spring
Comfortable hiking shoes
Supportive footwear is important for walking in natural terrain throughout the workshop.