Which behavior indicates that a hawk is ready for free flight?

A quick response to call is a strong indicator that a hawk is ready for free flight. This behavior demonstrates the bird's engagement and willingness to interact with the falconer, showcasing its ability to recognize and respond to commands. A hawk that reliably responds promptly when called suggests a solid bond between the bird and the handler, a key aspect in the training process for free-flight activities.

When a bird is accustomed to following commands and shows eagerness to return, it indicates confidence and readiness to be flown, which is essential for successful training and performance during free flight. A falconer's ability to call a bird and have it respond immediately is a hallmark of effective training and trust.

In contrast, while a long attention span, consistent returns to the lure, and flying high and away are important behaviors during training and flight preparation, they do not specifically indicate readiness for free flight in the same definitive manner as a quick response to call does.