How are Cooper's hawks most commonly hunted?

Cooper's hawks are most commonly hunted from the fist because this method allows the falconer to closely monitor the hawk's behavior and maintain control over its flight. When the hawk is perched on the falconer's fist, it can observe its surroundings and immediately respond to the falconer's cues once an opportunity for hunting arises. This direct control from the fist also fosters a strong bond between the falconer and the bird, which is essential for effective hunting.

In contrast, hunting from power poles and a commanding pitch involves the hawk being away from the falconer and relying on its natural instincts. While Cooper's hawks can utilize trees and elevated perches to launch surprise attacks on prey, these methods are less controlled and not the standard practice in falconry for this species. The focus in falconry is often on utilizing the trained bird's skills in tandem with the falconer's guidance, which is best achieved from the fist.