What should you do if your Red-tailed Hawk refuses to come down from a tree after the first free flight?

When a Red-tailed Hawk refuses to come down from a tree after its first free flight, it indicates a need for specialized attention and guidance. Both arriving early the next morning and seeking advice from a sponsor are prudent steps in this situation.

Arriving before dawn allows you to assess the situation while the hawk is still likely resting in the tree, giving you a better opportunity to observe its behavior and devise a plan for recovery. Early morning is a quiet time when the hawk may be more accessible and less agitated.

Additionally, consulting with your sponsor is a crucial step because they can provide valuable insights drawn from their own experiences and knowledge. They may have strategies that have proven effective for recovering birds or insights on the behavior of hawks that can help guide your actions.

Combining both actions—your own attempt to retrieve the hawk and seeking expert advice—ensures that you approach the situation with a well-rounded strategy, increasing the likelihood of successfully recovering the hawk.