Can apprentice falconers in Louisiana possess a raptor that is imprinted on humans?

In Louisiana, apprentice falconers are prohibited from possessing a raptor that is imprinted on humans. This regulation is in place primarily because imprinting essentially alters a bird's natural behavior and development. Imprinted birds often view humans as their primary companions, which can complicate the training and handling processes.

Raptors that are imprinted on humans may lack the instinctual behaviors necessary for successful hunting and falconry. For apprentice falconers, who are still developing their skills and understanding of raptor management, possessing an imprinted bird could hinder their learning experience and negatively impact the welfare of the bird. In falconry, the focus is on fostering a healthy, natural relationship between the falconer and the raptor, enabling the bird to engage in its natural hunting instincts.

Therefore, regulations restrict apprentice falconers from having human-imprinted raptors to ensure that both the falconers and the birds engage in practices that align with the ideals of traditional falconry.