What defines a passager or passage hawk?

A passage hawk, often referred to as a passager, is specifically defined as a bird of prey that is captured during its first migration. This distinction is important in falconry as it marks the age and experience of the bird.

Capturing a raptor during its first migration typically means that it is still relatively young and has not yet undergone the full cycling of behavioral patterns that older hawks may have experienced. This gives falconers certain advantages, as these birds can be more impressionable and adaptable to training, which can lead to a more successful partnership with their handler.

The term emphasizes the significance of the timing of the capture, distinguishing this group of raptors from others that may not be on their first migratory journey or may have been previously trapped and trained.