Falconry is a centuries-old practice, but the welfare of captive raptors depends heavily on keeper expertise, housing quality, and training methods used.
Falconry encompasses a huge range of welfare outcomes depending on keeper skill and commitment. Expert falconers who provide daily free flight, appropriate nutrition, veterinary care, and enrichment can maintain birds in good welfare. However, casual or commercial falconry often falls short. Foot disorders, feather damage from poor housing, and psychological distress from inadequate exercise are common problems. Licensing and training requirements for falconers, inspections of facilities, and bans on wild-caught birds are important welfare safeguards.