What is one reason to stop flying before spring migration?

• A. Warmer weather
• B. Shorter daylight
• C. Increased migration urges
• D. More stable prey

Answer: (C)

Before spring migration, migratory urges in wild birds intensify as the season changes. For a raptor in training, that heightened drive can make the bird more likely to break focus, chase after migrating flocks, or slip from control, increasing the risk of loss or injury. Pausing flights during this period helps keep the bird under safer, more manageable control and reduces the chance it tries to join wild migrants. Warmer weather or longer daylight would typically encourage more outdoor training, not stop it; shorter daylight just limits training time; and a more stable prey base doesn’t create a safety reason to pause. The increased migratory motivation is the factor that makes stopping flights prudent.