BFC Code of Conduct
This code sets out the general standards which members of the British Falconers' Club are asked to observe. Members are, of course, also required to observe the Club's rule-book. The Code is used by the Council as a guideline in assessing any question of ' bringing falconry into disrepute ' under Article 16 of the rule book. Falconry is the sport of taking wild quarry in its natural state and habitat by means of trained hawks. The first duty of all members is to respect and uphold this ideal. Members must always endeavour to promote the welfare and survival of hawks in the wild state taking into account all environmental issues.
• Members are under an obligation to observe the laws and customs of the United Kingdom and of foreign countries with regard to the taking, import and export of hawks, the hunting of a quarry species and the right of access to land in the country concerned. Any member found guilty in a court of law of any such offence will automatically be subject to investigation by a disciplinary committee convened under the club rules. Any complaints of attempting to supplant permission or hawking on land without permission will also be regarded by the council as conduct meriting investigation by a disciplinary committee.
• A member must uphold the highest standards of welfare, housing and feeding of dependant hawks. The welfare of a hawk must override any other consideration.
• A member should not obtain any raptor, whether for flying or breeding purposes, unless he or she is able to dedicate sufficient time each day to ensure the hawks welfare.
• A member should not try to train a difficult species of hawk if they do not have the necessary experience so to do. Unwise publicity can bring falconry into disrepute and may embarrass the Club's relations with welfare and protectionist organisations. Only members with considerable experience should attempt to provide material for publishing, take part in films or plays, give lectures and instruction or give displays. They should ensure that their actions comply with the standards of the club.
• Interviews with the press, television and broadcasting organisations can be seriously distorted on publication or broadcast. Members should consult the Director or their Regional Group Secretary before committing them selves.
• A member who has good reason to believe that another member is in breach of this code or of the rules of the club, shall report the matter in writing to the director or regional secretary. No anonymous accusations are acceptable. Where the law has been broken, members are reminded that they have a duty to report such occurrences to the appropriate authorities.
• Members will refrain from pursuing actions or behaving in such a manner that might be considered injurious to the club, officers and members and their reputation.
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