What does the term 'comfortable crop' refer to in hawking?

The term 'comfortable crop' refers specifically to the hawk's level of satisfaction after eating. When a hawk has a "comfortable crop," it indicates that its crop—an area in its throat where food is stored temporarily—has been filled adequately but not excessively. This balance is crucial for falconers, as overfeeding can lead to health issues and underfeeding can leave the bird unsatisfied or unable to hunt effectively.

In contrast, the ideal size of prey, crops used in falconry, and weight limits for hawks focus on different aspects of falconry practices or breeding and do not pertain directly to the immediate sense of satisfaction a hawk experiences after a meal. Thus, understanding the concept of a 'comfortable crop' is vital for ensuring the hawk remains both healthy and capable during hunting.