Spend a day learning the ancient art of hunting with trained hawks near Live Oak, Florida. Gain close wildlife encounters and stunning photo ops in natural pine flatwoods.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; expect walking over varied terrain and moderate outdoor activity.
Wildlife
History
Falconry in North America blends Native American traditions with European influences brought during colonization.
Conservation
The operation supports raptor conservation through education and sustainable bird care practices.
International Falconry Academy
Spend a day learning the ancient art of hunting with trained hawks near Live Oak, Florida. Gain close wildlife encounters and stunning photo ops in natural pine flatwoods.
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 sturdy, closed-toe shoes
You'll be walking through uneven woods and fields; protect your feet from brush and insects.
Bring binoculars for spotting hawks
Binoculars enhance your viewing experience during flight and hunting sessions.
Apply insect repellent
Florida's wetlands host mosquitoes and ticks—repellent helps ensure comfort and safety.
Charge your camera batteries
You’ll want to capture the hawks in flight and close-up wildlife moments, so be prepared.
Long pants
Protects legs from branches, insects, and underbrush during walks.
Sunhat or cap
Provides shade during sunny portions of the day in open areas.
summer
Camera with zoom lens
Ideal for capturing detailed photos of hawks in flight.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the several hours of outdoor activity.
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