When should a raptor at hack be taken up?

The appropriate time to take up a raptor at hack is when it starts hunting. This indicates that the bird has acclimatized to its environment and is beginning to demonstrate natural hunting behavior. When a raptor shows signs of hunting, it suggests that it has successfully adapted and gained enough strength and skill to capture prey, which is a key milestone in the training process.

Taking the bird up at this stage helps to reinforce its natural instincts while also allowing the falconer to maintain a degree of control over the bird's activities and ensure its safety. By monitoring the bird closely during this time, the falconer can begin to work on recall and other training exercises that align with the raptor's natural behaviors.

The other timeframes mentioned do not directly correspond to the ideal moment for bringing a bird back from hack, as they either refer to arbitrary time markers or do not align with behavioral readiness. Understanding the natural progression of a raptor’s development and its instinctual behaviors is crucial for successful falconry practices.