What is the purpose of free-flight conditioning?

• A. It improves wing strength
• B. Build confidence and reliable return
• C. It reduces hunger
• D. It increases wildness

Answer: (B)

Free-flight conditioning focuses on making the raptor comfortable flying away from the handler and, just as importantly, returning reliably when called. The aim is to build the bird’s confidence to operate at a distance and still come back on cue, which is the foundation for safe, effective falconry. This reliable recall allows the bird to hunt and explore while staying under the falconer’s control, rather than wandering off or becoming a safety risk. It isn’t about strengthening wings, reducing hunger, or making the bird more wild; it’s about earning trust and teaching a dependable return through gradual, positive training cues and rewards.