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Hire a Falconer for Events & Demonstrations

Live raptor demonstrations create unforgettable experiences for corporate events, schools, parties, and film productions. Find licensed falconers with exhibition permits near you.

What Is a Falconry Demonstration?

A falconry demonstration is a live presentation where a licensed falconer showcases trained raptors — typically hawks, falcons, or owls — to an audience. Demonstrations can include free-flight displays, bird handling, educational talks about raptor biology, and interactive experiences where attendees can hold a bird on a gloved hand.

These events are led by falconers who hold USDA exhibition permits and carry liability insurance. The birds are captive-bred and trained specifically for public interaction, ensuring both audience safety and bird welfare.

Types of Events

Falconry demonstrations work across a wide range of settings. Here are the most common booking types:

Event Type	Typical Duration	Audience	What's Included
Corporate events	1–3 hours	20–200 people	Free-flight demo, Q&A, photo opportunities
School programs	45–90 min	Classrooms or assemblies	Educational talk, bird biology, conservation message
Birthday parties	1–2 hours	10–30 guests	Bird handling, photos, interactive experience
Film & photography	Half or full day	Production crew	Trained flight on cue, multiple takes, handler on set
Falconry experiences	2–4 hours	1–6 people	Hands-on hawk walk, field hunting simulation
Weddings & private	1–2 hours	Varies	Ring-bearing owl, flyover, display perches

900% YoY growth — "Falconry experience near me" is the fastest-growing falconry search term in the United States, reflecting surging public interest in interactive raptor encounters.

What to Look for When Hiring a Falconer

Not all falconry demonstration providers are equal. Here's what to verify before booking:

• USDA exhibition permit — Required by federal law for any public display of raptors. Ask to see the permit number.
• Liability insurance — Professional providers carry general liability coverage. Most venues require a certificate of insurance.
• State falconry permit — The handler should hold a valid state falconry license at the General or Master level.
• Experience with public events — Birds used in demonstrations need specific temperament and training. Ask how many events they've done.
• Safety protocols — A professional will assess the venue, establish a flight perimeter, and brief the audience on behavior expectations.
• Bird welfare standards — The birds should appear healthy, well-manned, and comfortable around crowds. Multiple birds should be rotated to avoid stress.

Typical Costs

Pricing for falconry demonstrations varies by region, event type, duration, and number of birds:

• Small private experience (1–6 people): $150–$500
• Birthday party or small group: $300–$800
• School assembly or classroom visit: $250–$600
• Corporate event: $500–$2,500
• Film/photography (half day): $1,000–$3,000+
• Wedding flyover or ring delivery: $500–$1,500

Travel fees may apply for events outside the falconer's local area. Most providers offer custom quotes based on your specific needs.

Safety and Legal Requirements

Falconry demonstrations are regulated at both the federal and state level. Key requirements include:

• The falconer must hold a USDA Class C Exhibitor license for any paid public display.
• State wildlife agencies may have additional permitting requirements for exhibition.
• Indoor venues need adequate ceiling height and controlled exits. Outdoor venues need a clear flight area away from roads and power lines.
• Audience members should not approach birds without handler guidance. Flash photography policies vary by provider.
• The falconer is responsible for the birds at all times. Guests should follow all handler instructions.

List Your Falconry Event Business

If you offer falconry demonstrations, experiences, or event services, add your business to the directory. Featured listings appear first in search results for your state and category.

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