How long can a nonlicensed person care for a licensee's raptor?

A nonlicensed person can care for a licensee's raptor for a maximum of 30 days under Colorado law. This regulation ensures that raptors, which require specialized care and attention, are not left with untrained individuals for extended periods. The limited timeframe serves to protect the health and well-being of the birds, as falconry involves specific feeding, handling, and training practices that a nonlicensed person may not be fully familiar with.

Beyond this period, it is necessary for the care of the raptor to be transferred to a person with the appropriate training and licensing to ensure ongoing compliance with legal and ethical standards in raptor care. Properly licensed falconers are equipped with the knowledge and experience needed to meet the nuanced needs of these birds of prey, making the 30-day limit an important regulatory measure to safeguard avian welfare within the sport of falconry.