Three Days with Raptors: Live Oak’s Intensive International Falconry Academy

LIVE OAK WORKSHOP FIELD GUIDE

Three Days with Raptors: Live Oak’s Intensive International Falconry Academy

An intensive three-day falconry course in Live Oak that pairs classroom and fieldwork with hawk handling and the materials you need if you plan to pursue licensed apprentice falconer status.

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Three Days with Raptors: Live Oak’s Intensive International Falconry Academy.

Duration
6 hours each day
Location
Live Oak
Operator
International Falconry Academy
Category
Workshop

Adventure brief

Three Days with Raptors: Live Oak’s Intensive International Falconry Academy

The 3 Day International Falconry Academy in Live Oak condenses core falconry instruction into an intensive, hands-on workshop: three days of classroom and field work, hawk handling and fieldcraft delivered by the International Falconry Academy for those taking the first steps toward licensed apprenticeship.

Experience the thrill and tradition of falconry with the 3 Day International Falconry Academy in Live Oak, Florida. This immersive workshop offers hands-on instruction in hawk handling, flying, and falconry fieldwork, led by expert falconers with years of experience. Over three days, participants will engage directly with trained birds of prey, learning key skills needed to become a licensed apprentice falconer. The course also includes comprehensive educational materials and personal guidance to refine your technique and deepen your understanding of raptor behavior. Set in the spacious, natural surroundings of rural Florida, this academy balances intensive practice with the chance to connect with nature in a unique way. Whether you're a beginner or someone looking to elevate your falconry expertise, this program offers not just instruction but an unforgettable adventure rooted in one of the oldest hunting traditions. Prepare to gain lifelong knowledge, develop new skills, and leave with memories of flying magnificent birds in the wild.

Route Schematic

Course itinerary at a glance

The academy structure alternates classroom learning with field sessions where participants practice handling and flying hawks.

  1. Classroom instruction & foundations

    Classroom course work covering fundamentals of falconry and preparation for field exercises.

  2. Field work & hawk handling

    Hands-on fieldcraft sessions focused on hawk handling and flying practice in outdoor settings.

  3. Wrap-up & next steps

    Review of materials provided, guidance on the apprentice pathway and what additional requirements remain for licensure.

Participants should be aware that completing the course does not guarantee licensure; additional steps (exam, facilities inspection, finding a sponsor) remain required and participants are responsible for meeting those requirements.

What the day feels like

What three days in the field feel like

Across three intensive days the program alternates classroom instruction with hands-on fieldwork: focused sessions on hawk handling and field craft, practical flying exercises, and guided discussions about the steps required to pursue licensed apprentice falconer status.

Three days of concentrated instruction

THE COURSE

Three days of concentrated instruction

This is an intensive, three-day course combining classroom course work and field work to teach hawk handling and field craft, designed as the first formal instructional step for aspiring apprentice falconers.

Course kit and digital resources included

THE MATERIALS

Course kit and digital resources included

The program includes instructional materials delivered via Dropbox and flash drive, an online workbook, and access to the UK Raptor Awards program as part of the course package.

Preparation for formal apprenticeship requirements

THE NEXT STEP

Preparation for formal apprenticeship requirements

Taking the course provides essential knowledge but does not replace the apprentice–sponsor system; participants who wish to become licensed apprentice falconers remain responsible for passing the exam, the facilities inspection and finding a sponsor.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this course is for—and who should plan additional steps afterward.

1
Aspiring FalconersWell suited: the academy provides the core instructional foundation for those intending to pursue licensed apprentice falconer status, but attendees remain responsible for passing the exam, arranging a facilities inspection and finding a sponsor to complete licensing requirements.
2
Outdoor EnthusiastsA good match for people who want hands-on fieldwork and hawk handling experience over an intensive three-day period, with practical exercises in the field.
3
Those Seeking Immediate CertificationNot a shortcut: taking the course does not replace the apprentice/sponsor system and does not guarantee passing of the exam or inspection needed for licensure.
4
Budget-Minded ParticipantsPlan extra costs: the course fee covers instructional materials, but participants are additionally responsible for separate state hunting license fees and any required waterfowl stamps depending on their state of residence.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Daily Length

The academy runs three days, with each day structured at approximately six hours of instruction and fieldwork.

Meeting Location

The course meeting location is Live Oak, Florida.

What’s Provided & What You Must Buy

Course fee includes Dropbox and flash drive materials, an online workbook and access to the UK Raptor Awards program. Participants must separately purchase any required state hunting license and waterfowl stamp(s) where applicable.

Cost

The intensive three-day class is offered for $900.00 per participant.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the course each day?

The program runs approximately six hours per day over three days.

Where does the academy meet?

The meeting location for the course is Live Oak, Florida.

What is included in the course fee?

The fee includes course and field work instruction plus materials delivered via Dropbox and flash drive, an online workbook and access to the UK Raptor Awards program.

Does taking the course make me a licensed apprentice falconer?

No — the course provides essential instruction but does not replace the apprentice/sponsor system; participants who pursue licensure must still pass the exam, pass a facilities inspection and find a sponsor.

Are there additional permits or licenses I need?

Participants are required to purchase and be responsible for a separate state hunting license (fees vary by state) and any applicable waterfowl stamp(s).

How this guide was prepared

This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.

  • Verified: 2026-09-15T12:03:43.710Z

Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.

Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.

Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.

Three Days with Raptors: Live Oak’s Intensive International Falconry Academy