Falcon Handler

Role DescriptionA Falcon Handler is responsible for the daily care, handling, training, conditioning, transportation, and management of falcons to ensure their health, safety, welfare, and performance. The role requires proper handling techniques, close observation of bird behavior, and strict adherence to animal welfare, safety, and operational procedures.Key ResponsibilitiesHandle, restrain, transport, and manage falcons safely and professionally.Provide daily care, feeding, watering, grooming, and general husbandry for falcons.Monitor the health, behavior, physical condition, appetite, and activity levels of birds.Assist with falcon training, conditioning, exercise, and flight activities.Prepare falcons for training sessions, demonstrations, hunting activities, competitions, or other operational requirements as applicable.Maintain and inspect falconry equipment, including jesses, leashes, gloves, hoods, perches, transport boxes, and related equipment.Conduct routine checks of equipment and report any damage, defects, or safety concerns.Maintain clean, safe, and suitable housing and facilities for falcons.Maintain accurate records of feeding, weight, health observations, training activities, treatments, and other relevant bird information.Observe falcon behavior and identify signs of illness, injury, stress, fatigue, or abnormal conditions.Report health or behavioral concerns promptly to the supervisor, veterinarian, or relevant specialist.Assist with veterinary examinations, medical treatments, vaccinations, and other health-care procedures when required.Support the safe transportation and relocation of falcons between facilities or operational locations.Ensure falcons are handled according to established falconry practices, animal welfare standards, and company procedures.Follow all applicable wildlife, animal welfare, environmental, and regulatory requirements.Maintain proper control, storage, and cleanliness of falconry equipment and supplies.Coordinate with falconers, veterinarians, trainers, supervisors, and other team members.Assist with facility maintenance, bird preparation, equipment setup, and other operational activities as required.Maintain high standards of animal welfare, personal safety, operational discipline, and professional conduct.Support continuous improvement in falcon care, training methods, bird welfare, handling procedures, and operational efficiency.QualificationsMinimum secondary school education or equivalent.Previous experience in falconry, bird handling, animal care, wildlife management, or a related field is preferred.Practical knowledge of falcon behavior, handling, feeding, and basic husbandry is an advantage.Experience handling birds of prey or other large birds is highly desirable.Physically fit and able to handle and transport birds and equipment safely.Comfortable working outdoors and in changing weather conditions.Strong observation skills and attention to detail.Patient, calm, responsible, and comfortable working closely with animals.Ability to recognize changes in bird behavior and physical condition.Good communication, teamwork, and record-keeping skills.Ability to follow instructions, safety procedures, animal welfare standards, and established handling protocols.Willing to work flexible hours, weekends, public holidays, and according to operational requirements.Able to work in demanding outdoor environments where required.Safety-conscious, disciplined, reliable, and committed to animal welfare.Willingness to undergo additional falconry, animal handling, safety, or specialized training as required.