Welcome to the North American Falconers’ Association (NAFA) official web site! This web site has been designed for both current NAFA Members and those who have an interest in learning more about NAFA and falconry.  

NAFA has provided the leadership for falconry in North America since its inception in 1961. NAFA is organized to allow us to fulfill our mission and purpose which is to improve, aid, and encourage competency in the art and practice of falconry among interested persons; to provide communication among and to disseminate information to interested Members; to promote scientific study of the raptorial species, their care, welfare and training; to promote conservation of the birds of prey and an appreciation of their value in nature and in wildlife conservation programs; to urge recognition of falconry as a legal field sport; and, to establish traditions which will aid, perpetuate, and further the welfare of falconry and the raptors it employs.

In addition to being the leading falconry organization in North America, NAFA has been and continues to be a world leader for falconry. As an affiliated member of the International Association for Falconry, NAFA has the opportunity to assist falconers across the globe and does so with information, friendship, fellowship and leadership.

NAFA, as an organization and our members individually, have played significant roles in some tremendous achievements like the recovery of the peregrine falcon from the brink of extinction in North America and now the ability, although on a very limited basis, to capture and train juvenile peregrines from the wild. NAFA has worked hard to insure fair and equitable regulations governing falconry are in place and we continue to work with state and federal agencies to make those regulations even better and more liberal for all falconers. There are still many things to be accomplished in areas such as improving and supporting habitat conservation, seeking bans on environmentally harmful pesticides and products and maintaining good populations of legal quarry.

If you are a falconer but not currently a NAFA member, someone seriously interested in the continued existence and welfare of falconry, or you are about to enter the sport for the first time, I urge you to apply for membership in NAFA. Joining NAFA you become part of a large family. A family of responsible, ethical licensed falconers and NAFA needs your support as we continue to grow and support you. Joining NAFA will enhance your learning opportunities and experiences while strengthening the art and sport of falconry. If you are already a NAFA Member thank you for your continued commitment and you already know about the exciting times at a NAFA Meet, the information shared in the Hawk Chalks and the Journal and the value of networking with falconers from all walks of life.

Speaking of meets, make plans to attend this year’s meet. You will have great opportunities to fly your birds, meet new people and renew old friendships. The fellowship shared at a meet is second to none. If you have never attended a NAFA national field meet, make plans to bring the family and have a lot of fun.

Sincerely,
Bob Welle
Bob Welle, President
North American Falconers’ Association