In falconry, a bird that is trained to hunt is called what?

In falconry, a bird that is trained to hunt is commonly referred to as a hawk, but this term is a bit broader in its general usage. It is important to understand that while many birds used in falconry are classified as hawks, the term encompasses various species used for hunting, which can include eagles and falcons as well.

Hawks are specifically valued for their hunting skills, which have been honed through training and conditioning. In the context of falconry, the training process involves developing the bird's ability to hunt in cooperation with its human handler. This relationship is essential for successful hunting, and hawks are often chosen for their agility, speed, and adaptability in various hunting environments.

While "falcon" specifically refers to a type of bird in the family Falconidae that is also used in falconry, when we speak about a trained bird that hunts, many practitioners might use the broader term hawk. This reflects an understanding of both the species used in the practice and the terminology prevalent among falconers, highlighting the significance of skillsets over specific classifications.