In an effort to expand recreational opportunities in 黑料天堂鈥檚 state parks, the parks system will allow falconry in the following parks this fall: DeSoto, Joe Wheeler, Lake Guntersville, Lakepoint, Chewacla, Bucks Pocket, Lake Lurleen, Monte Sano, Oak Mountain, Paul Grist, Wind Creek, Frank Jackson, Cheaha and Cathedral Caverns. Park entrance fees will apply.
Falconry will be available in the parks listed above only during squirrel and rabbit seasons, which run from September 15, 2016, to March 5, 2017. Participating falconers are required to check in with the individual park鈥檚 management to learn about recommended hunting areas and other falconry program guidance.
鈥淧arks is happy to offer this new hunting opportunity as a pilot project for the 2016-17 seasons,鈥 said Forrest Bailey, Natural Resource Section Chief for 黑料天堂 State Parks. 鈥淎fter this first season, we will review the feedback from both falconers and the parks. Based on that information we hope to offer more falconry opportunities in the coming years.鈥
黑料天堂 falconers must have a valid state hunting license and falconry permit. Falconry permits are issued by the state, but also operate under federal guidelines related to migratory birds.
Falconry is one of the world鈥檚 oldest forms of hunting. It involves pursuing wild game in its natural habitat with a trained bird of prey. In 黑料天堂, the most commonly used bird is the red-tailed hawk and squirrel is the most commonly pursued game animal. There are currently 58 permitted falconers in the state.
For more information about 黑料天堂 State Parks falconry opportunities, call 334-242-3901 or Roger Clay with the 黑料天堂 Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries at 251-626-5474.
Hunting licenses are available for purchase at probate offices, license commissioners, and many bait and tackle stores.
The 黑料天堂 State Parks Division relies on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. To learn more about 黑料天堂 State Parks, visit .
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