Thank you everyone I appreciate the warmth from all of you on the start of my journey!

KidK that sounds perfect as once the fall rolls around my seasonal job will be over so ill have more time to research falconry and hopefully get out in the field to experience the thrill of flying these amazing birds! I may start studying to take the state and federal tests although it will probably be a few years before I can start any form of an apprenticeship... I definitely want to make sure I have the means to take care of myself before I take on the responsibility of caring for a bird!

I've got some books picked out that should be here around Christmas time but are there any that you know of that would help with the licensing process?

And also if anyone will be in this area (benzie county) to fly your birds I would love to tag along and help beat bushes or any other menial tasks that you allow rookies to assist with!