Apex predators dominate the Dakota skies... ...we get to go along.
Rocket, a female juvenile Swainson's Hawk, that was released in the spring to allow her to join the migration patterns.
About us
Welcome to the South Dakota Falconers Association! Our role as falconers is to preserve the ancient art of falconry--hunting with trained birds of prey on quarry--supporting the ethical practice of this federally protected hunting tradition in South Dakota and the United States.
The South Dakota Falconers Association are modern hunters committed to habitat and wildlife conservation, supporting federal and state regulations, resources to wildlife education groups, and networking support for resident falconers and non-resident falconers visiting South Dakota.
If you are just interested in falconry and want to know more... welcome. Hunting is not for everyone, but it is a way of life for these birds of prey and we have the honor to be a part of their world.
Sky, female Peale's Peregrine
Our focus areas
Conservation
Protecting birds of prey and their habitats is at the heart of being a falconer.
The SDFA has no current commitments to any projects as an association. There are many individuals who participate in these private projects. The SDFA hopes to be involved in future endeavors across the state.
Education
South Dakota Falconry Association does not directly provide these programs. We have partnered with the limited amount of South Dakota wildlife conservation educators who may or may not be members of the SDFA. These are a valuable asset for information about birds of prey and conservation efforts. We are happy to connect visitors with educational programs and resources to promote understanding and appreciation of birds of prey.
Ethical practices
We advocate for responsible falconry practices that prioritize the welfare of the birds and respect wildlife conservation. Resources are available everywhere on the internet. The Federal and State Regulations are found in the Codified Federal Regulations. ALL falconers must hold valid/current hunting licenses and permits for the correct birds at their license level: Apprentice(2yrs), General(5yrs), Master(7+yrs).
Find us...
The Association is in its organizational creation phase through 2026...Everything is under construction, but we still have goals.
If you are interested in becoming a future member, please join the Facebook groups listed above!! If you don't have Facebook, THAT"S FINE! Please email the Administrator to keep updated.
Falconry is "the taking of wild quarry in its natural state and habitat by means of a trained raptor."
Founded by passionate falconers in South Dakota, our association is dedicated to preserving and promoting this ancient art. We work to ensure falconry continues as a valued tradition for generations to come, deeply rooted in ethical practices and conservation efforts.
Celebrating our heritage
The rich cultural heritage of falconry dates back over 3,000 years in many foreign countries. It is very young in the United States by comparison. Explore our website (and the rest of the internet and libraries of archived books) to learn more about the resources here, how to connect with falconers, and how you can support falconry hunters in South Dakota. These birds are the farthest thing from a pet and are cared for in the same manner as an exotic animal.
Thank you for visiting!
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John Doe
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Jane Smith
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Joe Shmoe
Contact us
Location
South Dakota, USA
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