What is the preferred method for an apprentice falconer to assess their raptor's condition?

Weighing the raptor is the preferred method for an apprentice falconer to assess their bird's condition because a bird's weight is a crucial indicator of its overall health. Regular weighing allows the falconer to monitor changes in weight, which can signify various health issues such as malnutrition, illness, or stress.

Maintaining the proper weight is essential in falconry, as it directly affects the raptor's energy levels, hunting performance, and well-being. A consistent monitoring regime helps the falconer make informed decisions regarding feeding and health management. By noting fluctuations in weight, the falconer can adjust the raptor's diet or consult a veterinarian if significant changes are observed.

While other methods like checking for yarak (hunger state), feeling the keel (bone structure), and examining feather condition are useful in providing additional insights, they do not offer the same level of immediate and quantifiable data regarding the raptor's health as regular weighing does.