What game is commonly used to enter large falcons?

• A. Ducks or pheasants
• B. Rabbits
• C. Squirrels
• D. Rats

Answer: (A)

Large falcons need quarry that matches their size, strength, and hunting style so they can practice a proper stoop and accurate strike. Ducks and pheasants provide a substantial, manageable target with the right flight characteristics for conditioning and hunting realism, helping the bird learn to pursue and take down sizeable game in field conditions. Smaller mammals like rabbits, squirrels, or rats don’t offer the same challenge or flight dynamics for a large falcon and are better suited for training smaller raptors or earlier stages of conditioning. That combination of appropriate size and behavior is why ducks or pheasants are commonly used when entering a large falcon.