Whether they were once "near extinct" or not red tails and Cooper's hawks now have the exact same conservation status as subway rats, look it up. They have the lowest status possible with regard to their numbers and if an "overprotected & thus overpopulated" status existed, that is what they would be. The law that protects them originated in 1916 and is still there only because nobody has made any real effort to update the species that may still need protection.
S.S.S. Do it without hesitation and most importantly without guilt. These killers are not endangered any more than the cockroach in your kitchen.
This is misinformation, if you live in the USA. Red tailed hawks and Cooper's Hawks are still protected under the U.S. MBTA, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. http://www.fws.gov/laws/lawsdigest/migtrea.html
This IS NOT the same conservation status as a cockroach or subway rat (note: Norway Rats and German Cockroaches are introduced/invasive species in the USA so they have no protection at all). Officials still respect and uphold this law, and it IS taken seriously. Some local governments may not, as individual concerns by conservation offers vary, but it is absolutely incorrect to assume that no one cares anymore.
Suggesting blazen removal of native wildlife, especially a migratory species, is a bit ignorant. I have no doubt that certain situations warrant the removal of raptors, and permits are often issued in these situations, but suggesting that all chicken keepers that have had a hawk sighting or predation shoot said hawk is, frankly, ignorant. I respect that everyone wants to protect their livestock and pets. I do, too! But shooting every time is NOT an answer to this complex problem.
I am surprised they let people own hawks unless its injured and can not fly and kept for educational purposes. Don't get the falconer thing ,Just my opinion
I guess every one has there thing.
Obtaining a falconry license in the USA is not easy nor casually handed out. It requires very strict requirements to be met by the person wishing to become involved in falconry, including building an inspected mews for the bird(s). Then hopeful falconers must find a licensed falconer to apprentice to. There are very strict laws governing when they may trap raptors, how, and the species. It is very carefully regulated.
I, myself, do not wish to be a falconer, but I respect those that do it correctly and ethically. To me, it is no different than keeping any other undomesticated bird species (parrots, some aviary birds, etc), if done correctly and with the best interest in the bird's welfare.