In the realm of extraordinary animals, few can match the grandeur and mystique of a eagle. These majestic birds of prey have captivated the human imagination for centuries with their regal demeanor and awe-inspiring presence. That is why there are many who wish to own pet eagle? But is it feasible to have that thought, let’s look at it.

Legality of owning a pet eagle

From the legal point of view, no, you can’t keep eagles as pets. And frankly, you shouldn’t even consider it, as eagles aren’t like cats or dogs in the sense that you can easily own or domesticate them. They present unique challenges in terms of care and training due to their wild nature, large size, and specialized dietary and environmental needs.

pet eagle

In most countries, possessing an eagle as a pet is prohibited due to legal protections for this species. For instance, in the United States, wild birds are safeguarded under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. So if you want to ‘own’ a eagle, there is three possibilities:

Becoming a Master Falconer appears to be the most suitable option for most, although it’s important to note that obtaining this license can be quite challenging.

How to Become a Master Falconer

Becoming a master falconer is a rewarding and challenging journey that involves training and caring for birds of prey, such as falcons, hawks, and eagles. Falconry is not just a hobby but a serious commitment that requires dedication, time, and adherence to legal regulations.

Typically, the path to becoming a falconer, and eventually obtaining an eagle license, involves a structured progression:

  1. Apprenticeship: Initially, one must start as an apprentice, working alongside a recognized sponsor for a period of two years. During this time, the apprentice is usually required to construct a hawk house.
  2. General Falconer: After completing the two-year apprenticeship, the individual advances to the status of a general falconer. At this stage, they are authorized to keep two raptors, commonly red-tailed hawks or kestrels.
  3. Master Falconer: With an additional five years of experience, the general falconer can attain the esteemed title of a master falconer.
  4. Eagle License: Even after achieving master falconer status, one must apply separately for an eagle license.

Once granted an eagle permit, falconers are permitted to house and care for up to three eagles, which can include golden eagles, white-tailed eagles, or Steller’s sea eagles. This detailed progression highlights the rigorous process involved in caring for these majestic birds of prey.

About Mongolian eagle hunter

In western Mongolia, particularly among the Kazakh community, the tradition of buckthorn hunting with horses and eagles holds a special place. This practice is not just a hobby; it’s an ancestral heritage that has been lovingly passed down through generations. From a young age, Kazakh children are introduced to the world of eagle training and scouting.

Mongolian Eagle hunting is undeniably a challenging and perilous sport, where the hunters face not only the inherent risk of being attacked by their formidable eagle companions but also the danger of being thrown from their horses during the pursuit. To excel in this time-honored tradition, the hunters must possess a mastery of both horseback riding and the art of handling their majestic eagles.

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In Mongolia, the most prevalent and revered eagle for hunting is the golden eagle. These magnificent birds are native to the region and have adapted perfectly to its harsh climate. Their strong and majestic presence, along with their adaptability, makes them ideal companions for eagle hunters. Moreover, golden eagles are relatively amenable to training, which is a crucial aspect of the hunting partnership.

The journey of transforming an eagle into a skilled hunter begins when the eagle is just a few months old. The eagle hunter takes the young eagle out on horseback, introducing it gradually to the sights and sounds of the hunting world. During these formative outings, the eagle learns to associate the rhythmic sound of the horse’s hooves with the exhilarating opportunity to hunt. This gradual conditioning process builds the foundation for a strong bond between the hunter and their eagle.

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In modern times, eagle hunting has transformed from a necessary survival skill to a captivating sport and a vibrant aspect of Mongolia’s cultural heritage. Many eagle hunters eagerly participate in the annual Golden Eagle Festival, a grand event that typically commences in mid-October in Olgii city, Mongolia.

Christian Bale in Mongolia

During this spectacle, hunters showcase their incredible talents and compete to demonstrate their eagles’ prowess, as they soar down to capture prey in a thrilling display of precision and teamwork. The Golden Eagle Festival is undoubtedly a must-see event for those eager to witness the skill, courage, and deep cultural significance of eagle hunting in Mongolia.

It serves as a vibrant reminder of the enduring bond between humans and these majestic birds, a testament to the rich traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Suggested Tours:

Visit Mongolian Eagle Hunter
Mongolia Winter tours
Golden Eagle Festival Photography Tour (2023)

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