PEPPERELL — After receiving a complaint from New Hampshire Fish and Game in late 2023, Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) uncovered an unlicensed falconry in Pepperell.
According to the MEP, the individual operating the falconry has been falsely claiming New Hampshire residency for the last four years in order to bypass the falconry regulations of the Commonwealth.
Four raptors (including two Harris Hawks, a Gyrfalcon, and a deceased Peregrine Falcon) were seized from the falconry by environmental police during their investigation.
According to MEP, the Peregrine Falcon was killed by the Gyrfalcon because of “improper caging facilities.”
(Courtesy Photo: Massachusetts Environmental Police)
The individual operating the falconry – who was not named in the MEP’s release – was charged in District Court with the following:
- Illegal Possession of Raptors (x3)
- Illegal Possession of Species of Special Concern (to wit Peregrine Falcon),
- Failure to Report Death of Falconry Bird
- Illegal Transportation (x4)
- Improper Caging Area (Mews)
- False Statement to Procure License
In court, the falconry operator agreed to make a $500 donation to the state’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, mandatory completion of a hunter education class, immediate suspension of any permit issued by MassWildlife and inability to procure any license from MassWildlife for three years, and potential suspension of licenses in 48 other states because Massachusetts is part of the “Wildlife Compact.”
The MEP said the surviving birds were relocated to licensed falconers and the deceased Peregrine Falcon is going to be utilized for educational purposes.
