I support this proposal. I…

I support this proposal. I am a licensed falconer who is very passionate about the sport and that the sport be practiced ethically and legally. The take of wild raptors for falconry has a neutral or positive effect on wild populations. Wild raptors have a very high mortality rate in their first year and as birds for falconry can only be taken as juveniles, this helps ensure their survival during this vulnerable time. Generally a wild caught bird is used for falconry for a season or two and then returned to the wild to breed.
Falconry is recognized by UNESCO as an important part of human culture and history. Taking birds from the wild is an important and ancient part of this tradition.
Falconry has had a very positive impact on wild raptor populations. Falconers were instrumental in the recovery of Peregrine Falcons in North America. Falconers also aid in the rehabilitation of injured wild birds of prey. I personally am a licensed Foster Care provider for several Wildlife Custodians and have successfully rehabilitated several wild raptors using falconry techniques.