Is it advisable to take an eyass Red-tailed Hawk for falconry purposes?

Taking an eyass Red-tailed Hawk for falconry is not advisable because of the potential for imprinting, which can lead to aggressive behavior. Imprinting occurs when a bird, especially a young one, develops a strong bond with a human instead of its natural species. This can result in behavioral issues, as the hawk may become overly reliant on humans for comfort and security, leading to aggression during hunting or when feeling threatened.

This consideration is crucial for falconers who want a bird that can function well in the wild as well as in a trained environment. While some may argue for the potential of proper training, the risks associated with imprinting in eyass hawks create significant challenges. Thus, many experienced falconers advise against taking eyass birds due to these concerns.