What behavior often indicates a comfortable hawk?

• A. Resting quietly in the perch
• B. Flying away at the slightest movement
• C. Preening and rousing
• D. Aggressive screeching

Answer: (C)

A comfortable hawk shows signs of relaxed self-care. When at ease, it will tend to its feathers—preening—cleaning and realigning them, which helps maintain plumage and shows the bird is calm enough to engage in grooming. Rousing, or waking and stretching after rest, also signals a sense of safety and confidence in its surroundings. These behaviors together indicate the bird feels secure with you and its environment.

Flying away at the slightest movement suggests the hawk is highly alert or stressed, not comfortable. Aggressive screeching likewise points to agitation or defensiveness. Resting quietly in the perch can indicate calm, but preening and rousing provide a clearer, active sign that the hawk is relaxed and content.