If a falcon strikes the lure firmly on its first stoop, what should you do?

When a falcon strikes the lure firmly on its first stoop, the appropriate response is to give the bird the lure and provide a reward. This practice reinforces positive behavior and helps in the training process. By rewarding the falcon after a successful strike, you establish a clear association between the desired action (hitting the lure) and a positive outcome (receiving food). This can enhance the effectiveness of training, as the bird learns that successfully catching the lure leads to a reward, which is crucial for building a strong bond and effective communication between the falconer and the bird.

Additionally, rewarding the falcon promptly after the strike helps in maintaining the falcon’s interest in the lure and encourages repeated desirable behavior in future training sessions. The act of feeding after a successful catch not only promotes motivation but also contributes to the overall health and conditioning of the bird, making it essential in the falconry training regimen.