A Teenager's Falconry Experience
By Matt Nelson

I first got interested in falconry when I was 10 years old and in 4th grade and we read My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George. I read the sequels and my interest grew. I e-mailed the author to find out when her next book would be done and how she knew about falconry. She had been in Africa, so it took a couple of months to hear back from her. I started reading books on falconry and hawking. I was 11 when I found out the minimum age requirement was 14, to become an apprentice. I was pretty mad about this but kept on reading. I now have five books on the subject.

I started researching the many different birds of prey and falconry on the Internet. I found many people that I could e-mail with my questions. They were more than willing to advise me on where I could get more information. A couple of them even offered to sponsor me when I was old enough, but they lived too far away. I found out more information on the NAFA web site including whom to contact in the Midwest. This is where I found the GLFA.

In December 2000, I was given memberships in

both NAFA and GLFA. My parents thought this
would be the best way to meet people in falconry and find out if my interest was going to last. I was now 13 years old. We went to the GLFA dinner in April 2001 and met many people. They were all supportive, generous, and very helpful. I found out that the hunting season had just ended but received offers to go on hunts in the fall. They explained what I would need to do and who to contact for license information. I needed to contact the Department of Natural Resources in Springfield for a ‘falconry packet.’ Falconry is under the jurisdiction of the law enforcement division. I received my packet with all the rules and regulations. I went to the GLFA picnic on September 8, 2001. I met new people and saw some familiar faces. It was interesting to see the birds that were there.

Well, I have now turned 14. For my birthday, I received more books including an apprentice study guide. Now that I am 14, I am more excited than ever. I just hope I eventually learn as much as all of you other falconers.