How to Hold a Hawk

Hawks are birds of prey. They are some of the smallest of the raptor group that include eagles, falcons and vultures. Raptors are hunting birds. They use their keen eyesight to spot prey. They have sharp talons to grasp and hold struggling animals. Raptors' sharp beaks tear their prey into bite-sized pieces. Adult hawks can weigh as little as 5 ounces and as much as 3 pounds, making them light enough to carry on your arm for hunting or flight.

Things You'll Need

  • Falconer's glove
  • Jess
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put the falconer's glove on your arm. The glove is very long and extends almost to the elbow. The glove is thick leather and protects the arm from the sharp talons of the hawk.

    • 2

      Open the hook on the jess. The jess is a long leather tether, like a leash. Hook the jess through the metal loops on the hawk's legs. Put your free hand through the loop handle of the jess.

    • 3

      Touch the back of the hawk's legs with the leather-gloved arm. The hawk will lift its leg and step onto the glove.

    • 4

      Lift your gloved arm and hold the bird away from your face and any object that might damage the bird's wing.

    • 5

      Hold the jess tightly to prevent the bird from flying away.