Who can be a sponsor to an Apprentice Falconer?

A sponsor for an Apprentice Falconer must have a certain level of experience to ensure that they can adequately guide and support the apprentice in their training. The requirement that the sponsor should be a General Falconer with at least two years of experience or a Master Falconer ensures that the sponsor possesses sufficient knowledge and practical experience in falconry. This experience is crucial for effectively mentoring an apprentice, as they will need to understand the intricacies of falconry, including bird care, training techniques, and legal responsibilities.

A General Falconer with less than two years of experience would not have the depth of knowledge required to provide adequate training and supervision. Similarly, while a Master Falconer certainly has the necessary qualifications to mentor, the option that allows for a General Falconer with sufficient experience widens the pool of possible sponsors, providing more opportunities for apprentices to find a suitable mentor. This structure supports both the apprentice’s learning and the overall health of falconry practices.