In falconry, bating refers to what?

• A. A form of wing clipping
• B. A type of lure practice
• C. A method of releasing quarry
• D. Attempting to fly while restrained

Answer: (D)

Bating is the practice of letting a falcon make a short flight while it is restrained. The bird attempts to fly or beat its wings, but is kept close by jesses or a tether so it cannot escape. This controlled flutter helps the hawk become familiar with the sensation of flight and reinforces its response to recall and the lure in later training, while maintaining safety and control. It’s not about permanently clipping wings, releasing quarry, or actively chasing a lure at distance; the key idea is the bird trying to fly while still restrained.