What does the term "bind" refer to in falconry?

In falconry, the term "bind" specifically refers to the action where a bird seizes its quarry or lure with its feet in a strong, clamped-on hold. This is a critical behavior in hunting, as it signifies the successful capture of the prey. When a falcon or hawk binds to its target, it uses its powerful talons to grip tightly, ensuring that the prey cannot escape. This action is essential for the survival of the bird as it enables the falconer to retrieve prey successfully, demonstrating the bird's effectiveness as a hunting partner.

The other terms presented do not accurately capture the essence of "bind." Flight behavior refers to how a hawk moves through the air, while the training process is focused on teaching the hawk specific commands and behaviors. Lastly, lure decoration pertains to the physical appearance or embellishments of a lure, which is used to attract birds but does not relate to the act of binding itself.