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Falconer with bird of prey on glove
Animal Care

Falconry Risk Assessment Template

The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for falconry and raptor handling.

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Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026

In This Guide

1 Introduction2 Benefits3 Hazards4 Checklist5 Related

The essential guide to falconry safety

Falconry is the ancient art of hunting with trained birds of prey. This UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage practice requires extensive knowledge of raptor behavior, handling techniques, and safety protocols.

This guide covers all key hazards in falconry—from handler injuries and bird escapes to public safety during demonstrations and proper transport of raptors.

Harris hawk perched on falconer glove
Animal Welfare
Animal Welfare
Activity Benefits

Why falconry matters

Cultural Heritage

Preserves an ancient cultural tradition and teaches sustainable hunting techniques.

Conservation

Supports wildlife conservation efforts by promoting responsible bird care.

Discipline

Develops patience, discipline, and respect for nature through training.

Outdoor Connection

Encourages outdoor activity and connection with birds of prey.

Risk Identification

Key hazards & control measures

Handler InjuriesHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Bites, scratches, puncture wounds from talons, serious hand and arm injuries.

Control Measures
  • Proper falconry glove worn
  • Correct handling techniques used
  • Birds trained for calm handling
  • First aid kit readily available
Bird EscapeHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Loss of birds due to faulty jesses, difficulty in recovery, bird injury.

Control Measures
  • Equipment checked before use
  • Telemetry tracking fitted
  • Secure flight areas used
  • Recovery plan in place
Public SafetyMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Injury to public during displays, talon scratches, panic responses.

Control Measures
  • Safe distance maintained
  • Public briefed before interactions
  • Supervised handling only
  • Barriers in place for displays
Zoonotic DiseaseMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Illness in handlers or public, potential disease outbreaks from bird contact.

Control Measures
  • Regular veterinary health checks
  • Hand washing facilities provided
  • Quarantine for new birds
  • Staff health monitoring

This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 29 hazards and 71+ control measures for Falconry, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.

Safety Checklist

Falconry safety checklist

Personal Protection

  • Falconry glove in good condition
  • Protective eyewear available
  • Long sleeves worn
  • Appropriate footwear used

Equipment

  • Jesses checked for wear
  • Telemetry batteries charged
  • Leash and swivel secure
  • Transport box clean

Bird Welfare

  • Bird weight monitored
  • Feathers in good condition
  • Water available
  • Veterinary checks current

Emergency

  • First aid kit stocked
  • Avian vet contact available
  • Recovery plan documented
  • Emergency numbers posted

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