True or False: A falconer must report any death, escape, or permanent release of a raptor.

The statement is true because falconers are legally mandated to report any death, escape, or permanent release of a raptor. This requirement is crucial for several reasons, primarily related to wildlife management and conservation. When a raptor is lost, whether it escapes or dies, it can impact local ecosystems and contribute to gaps in population data. Reporting allows regulatory bodies to monitor the status of raptor populations, understand the effects of falconry practices on these birds, and implement necessary conservation measures.

Furthermore, proper reporting helps ensure that falconers are adhering to legal requirements and demonstrating responsible stewardship of wildlife. This accountability is essential in maintaining public trust and support for falconry as a legitimate hunting method and as a conservation tool. The necessity of reporting does not depend on the species' endangered status or the time of year; it applies universally to all raptors handled by falconers, reinforcing the ethical obligation to safeguard the birds in their care.