Should a hawk be allowed to gorge on its first 10 kills?

Feeding a hawk gradually after its first kills is essential for several reasons related to its training and health. Allowing a hawk to gorge itself can lead to negative behavioral patterns and health issues. When a hawk consumes excessive amounts of food at once, it may develop a habit of overeating, which can affect its hunting instinct and make it less effective in the field.

By feeding gradually, you ensure that the hawk maintains a healthy weight and remains motivated to hunt effectively. This method also helps in reinforcing desirable behaviors, as the hawk learns that it will receive appropriate portions of food after a successful hunt, rather than overwhelming amounts that might interfere with its natural instincts. Additionally, gradual feeding can help establish a bond between the falconer and the hawk through a controlled and consistent feeding regimen, which is vital in training and handling the bird in the long term.