If a red-shouldered hawk is captured in adult plumage, what must the falconer do?

When a red-shouldered hawk is captured in adult plumage, the appropriate course of action is to immediately release it. This stems from regulations surrounding the capture and handling of raptors, which are protected under various laws, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Unlike juvenile hawks, adults are generally considered to be more capable of surviving in the wild on their own, and capturing them can disrupt their natural behaviors and breeding patterns.

Moreover, adult raptors typically have established territories and social structures, making their removal from the environment potentially harmful not only to them but also to the local ecosystem. Releasing the bird promptly allows it to return to its natural habitat and continue its life without the complications associated with captivity.

Choosing any other option, such as training the hawk, sending it to a rehabilitation center, or making a report to the authorities, does not align with the best practices for handling a hawk captured in adult plumage as it emphasizes the importance of allowing wild raptors to remain in their natural environments whenever possible.