California Hawking Club-Apprentice Practice Test

In the context of flying a red-tailed hawk, the statement that telemetry is more important than bells is false. Both telemetry and bells serve important, but different, purposes during falconry.

Telemetry involves using a tracking device that allows the falconer to locate the bird if it flies out of sight, which is especially crucial in open areas where hawks can gain significant distance quickly. It provides real-time location data, giving the falconer the ability to track the hawk's movements and ensure its safety.

On the other hand, bells are used primarily as auditory signals to help the falconer locate the hawk visually when it is nearby or perched in trees or on the ground. They are particularly beneficial in situations where visual contact is limited, and the sound can alert the falconer to the bird's position.

While telemetry is critical for long-distance tracking or safety in environments where a bird might get lost or fly away, bells remain an essential tool for managing the bird at closer ranges. Ultimately, neither tool can be deemed universally more important than the other, as their importance can depend on specific circumstances during the flight.