Alberta has a controlled animals list. Anything on the list can’t be owned privately, or in some cases, only owned with special permits and permissions.
When it comes to falcons, and other predatory birds, there’s an additional layer of regulations to consider.
There is a country wide regulation known as the Canada Migratory Birds Act.
Can I Own a Pet Falcon in Alberta?
You can not own a falcon as a pet in Alberta. Falcons are controlled and regulated animals under Alberta Wildlife Regulations and Canada’s Migratory Birds Convention Act.
However, there is an exception to this through Alberta’s Falconry Program.
In general, Falconry is basically the use of Falcons to help you hunt. This is process that requires education and special licensing
Source: More about the Falconry Policy of Alberta
Here is a screenshot of the relevant section of the Alberta Controlled Animals List, showing Falcons on the list under the Birds section:
Types of Falconry Permits
Alberta offers two types of falconry permits: Recreational and Commercial.
- Recreational Permit: Allows possession of up to four falconry birds, depending on one’s category within the Alberta Falconry Association. Offspring may be kept until six months old, and limited buying, selling, or trading is permitted.
- Commercial Permit: Allows possession and trafficking of any number of falconry birds that were not taken from the wild in Alberta.
Both permits permit temporary custody of another falconer’s birds for up to 90 days with written authorization.
Legal Requirements and Responsibilities
Ownership demands adherence to specific regulations. All falconry birds must be under the direct care of a member of the Alberta Falconry Association.
Birds must also be registered with the Fisheries and Wildlife Management Division and permanently banded by a Conservation Officer.
Annual records of all birds in possession must be submitted. Deaths, losses, or changes in a bird’s status have to be reported within 5 days to the Alberta Falconry Association.
Species Classification
In Alberta, 12 species of raptors are designated as falconry birds, including American Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, and Red-tailed Hawk.
Novice Falconers are limited to one bird from a specified list of species.
Additional Considerations
Alberta’s controlled animals list includes specific falcon species, adding another layer of regulation for would-be falcon owners.
See our list of other exotic pets that you can own as a pet in Alberta called What Exotic Pets Can You Legally Own in Alberta?
In Summary
- Falcons cannot be owned as pets in Alberta but can be owned under specific conditions for falconry.
- Ownership is regulated by both Recreational and Commercial falconry permits.
- Strict legal responsibilities and requirements exist for falcon ownership.
- There are limitations on which species of falcons can be owned.
- Additional species-specific regulations exist in Alberta’s controlled animals list.
