What is a common indicator of health issues in hawks?

A change in behavior is a significant indicator of health issues in hawks. When a hawk is unwell, it may exhibit alterations in its normal behaviors, such as being less active, showing signs of lethargy, or becoming more aggressive or withdrawn than usual. Changes in feeding habits, such as a loss of appetite or reluctance to hunt, can also signal health problems. Monitoring behavior is crucial for early detection of potential health concerns in these birds, as they often hide their illnesses, making behavioral changes one of the more noticeable signs for falconers and handlers.

In contrast, excessive noise may occur for various reasons unrelated to health, such as environmental stress or mating calls. Feather plucking, while it can indicate health or stress issues, may not be a primary indicator across all hawks. Increased hunting success typically indicates a healthy and well-adapted hawk, not a sign of health issues. Therefore, focusing on behavior changes provides a more comprehensive understanding of a hawk's health status.