Environment DEC
From the February 2007 issue
2007 Wildlife Rehabilitator and Falconry Exams Slated
DEC recently announced that the 2007 written exams for those interested in becoming licensed volunteer wildlife rehabilitators, and those interested in obtaining a license to practice the sport of falconry are scheduled for April 13 and April 27 respectively.
Wildlife Rehabilitator Exam
The rehabilitator exam will be held at designated locations around the state from 10 AM until noon on Friday, April 13. The registration deadline is Friday, March 23. The exam and license issued by DEC are offered free of charge.
Wildlife rehabilitators provide the selfless service of caring for injured, sick and orphaned wild animals. The ultimate goal of wildlife rehabilitators is to prepare the animals for their return to the wild. A wildlife rehabilitator study guide and examination manual are available to applicants for $15 a set. The materials were developed by wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, and biologists to teach applicants about the practice of wildlife rehabilitation, including technical requirements for licensed volunteers.
To Qualify for the Rehabilitator Exam
Master falconers must have at least seven years of experience - photo courtesy of Tom Hohen, Kodak
Applicants must be at least 16 years of age, submit an application along with two character references, have no convictions for violations of the State Environmental Conservation Law, and be interviewed by a regional staff person after taking the examination. Applicants should also understand that a great deal of technical skill and a significant commitment of time, money, and effort are required to be a wildlife rehabilitator. Prospective applicants are encouraged to gain experience by serving as an assistant to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. To locate a Wildlife Rehabilitator in your area, see the link below for the phone number of your nearest DEC Regional Wildlife Office.
To Apply for the Rehabilitator Exam
For applications, study materials, exam locations and additional information, contact the Special Licenses Unit at 518-402-8985, or write: NYSDEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752.
Falconry is not only a sport, but an opportunity to educate the public about these birds
Falconry Exam
The falconry exam has been scheduled for Friday, April 27, from 10 AM until noon. Applications for this free, written examination are available from DEC. The deadline for applying to take the exam is April 6.
Falconry has a rich history and tradition throughout the world. In the United States, recognition and acceptance of falconry as a sport is promoted primarily through the efforts of dedicated enthusiasts. In New York State, the tradition is continued by more than 200 licensed falconers.
To Qualify for a Falconry License
All applicants will be sent a letter of confirmation with a list of locations around the state where the test will be given. The cost of a two-year falconry license is $20. To qualify for the DEC Apprentice Falconry License, applicants must be at least 14 years of age, possess a valid New York small-game hunting license, and maintain DEC-approved facilities for housing the raptors. Apprentices are limited to possessing one bird, either an American kestrel falcon (also known as a "sparrow hawk") or a red-tailed hawk. After two years as an apprentice, a falconer may qualify for a general license. Master falconers must have a minimum of seven years experience.
More Information for Prospective Falconers
Information on the falconry exam may be obtained by calling 518-402-8985 or by writing to: Falconry, NYS DEC, Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752. Also see the link below for more information on hunting with falcons.
