What is one potential risk of hunting with a hawk?

Hunting with a hawk does come with several risks, one of the most significant being the injury or death of the hawk itself. When a falconer sends their bird into the field, they expose it to various dangers such as aggressive prey, environmental hazards, and potential encounters with other predators. A hawk's well-being is ultimately the falconer's responsibility, and any injury sustained can have serious implications for both the bird's health and its ability to hunt. This risk highlights the importance of training, proper health care, and risk assessment when engaging in falconry activities.

While personal injury to the falconer is indeed a risk, the primary concern often lies with the hawk, as falconers develop a strong bond with their birds and prioritize their safety. Loss of hunting rights typically relates to legal or regulatory issues rather than direct risks associated with hunting. Similarly, difficulty in capturing prey is more about the challenges of the hunt rather than a risk to the hawk's health and safety. Thus, the potential for injury or death of the hawk stands out as a pressing concern in falconry.