I'm a vet student at the…

I'm a vet student at the Ontario Veterinary College in my final year of school. I have worked with another veterinarian who is also a passionate falconer. I support the proposal to eliminate the draw and allow each falconer access to one wild raptor per year from the common species (red tailed hawk, merlin, coopers hawk, and sharp shinned hawk). I believe that use of these natural resources should be based on sound animal welfare practices and scientific data from population studies. The relatively small numbers of licensed falconers in this provice, and the even smaller number of birds that would be taken, would have an insignificant impact on the populations of these species. IN addition, many of the birds taken from teh wild can be successfully returned to the wild, further reducing any population impacts. I know that falconers undergo a two year apprenticeship, and often design their whole lives to be able to pursue this sport. They tend to be very dedicated to their birds and dogs. Predictable yearly access to teh common species would make it easier for falconers to release their previous birds (knowing they will not need to try and hope to draw another permit), and eliminate a lot of unnecessary bureaucracy around administering the draw system. I also support the limited take of wild goshawks, the limits of which should be set based on population studies that show sustainability. Once again, I'm expressing my support for the proposal. Thank you!