What game is commonly used to enter a red-tail?

• A. Rabbit or squirrel
• B. Ducks or pheasants
• C. Mice
• D. Fish

Answer: (A)

Rabbits or squirrels are the standard quarry to introduce a red-tailed hawk to hunting because they match the bird’s size, movement, and natural prey behavior in a training setting. This level of prey provides a realistic but manageable challenge that helps the hawk learn to track, stoop, and grasp live prey, building hunting drive and technique without overwhelming the bird. Ducks or pheasants are larger and more demanding, typically reserved for later stages of training or for birds already conditioned. Mice are smaller and can be used for early steps, but they don’t provide the same hunting challenge as larger mammal prey for a red-tail.