What to Do When Your Kestrel Captures a Starling

What to Do When Your Kestrel Captures a Starling: A Falconer’s Guide

Falconry isn't just about the thrill of the chase; it’s about understanding your bird, building a trustful bond, and knowing when to step in to lend a helping hand. Imagine the scene: you're out in the field, and suddenly, your kestrel spots a starling. It swoops down, making that perfect hunting strike. But wait! The moment quickly shifts; your kestrel has snagged the starling but is struggling to maintain control. What should you do?

The Right Response: Timing is Everything

You know what? Falconry is an art that requires intuition, patience, and quick decision-making. When your kestrel is in a predicament, the best course of action is to assist it as soon as possible. Why is that, you may ask? Well, let's break it down.

When our feathered friends engage with larger or more feisty prey, the situation can quickly escalate. A starling, while not the largest bird around, can flap its wings in quite a frenzy, making it difficult for your kestrel to assert dominance. That’s when intervention is crucial. Your swift action not only helps your bird regain control but also fosters trust in your partnership; it reassures your kestrel that you’re there for support, come what may.

The Art of Being Present

Now, let’s explore why standing at a distance or, heaven forbid, calling your friends to share the moment, isn’t the best option. If you stand at a distance, while it may seem like you're giving your bird room to work, you’re actually leaving your kestrel vulnerable. Falcons, including kestrels, can sometimes struggle when they encounter resistance from their prey. They need assistance to manage the situation effectively.

Plus, think about it: calling your buddies for a little brag session while your bird is in distress? That’s not how a responsible falconer acts! You’re out there for the bird, not for a show-off reel on social media. So, resist the temptation to busy yourself with anything other than supporting your kestrel.

A Chance to Enhance Trust

Here’s the thing: when you jump in to help your kestrel, you’re not just improving its chances of a successful capture. You're also nurturing a relationship built on trust and mutual respect. Birds of prey are incredibly intuitive; they pick up on how their falconer reacts in stressful situations. This bond is crucial as it can make all the difference during hunting expeditions.

By assisting your kestrel, you're effectively saying, “I’ve got your back.” As your bird becomes accustomed to your presence as a reliable partner, it can become more confident and adept in the field, which is a win-win for both of you!

Handling the Situation Wisely

So, how exactly do you lend that crucial helping hand? Maintain a calm demeanor—you don’t want to add to the chaos. Approach your kestrel slowly, giving it just enough support to reclaim control over the starling. This might look like gently coaxing your bird with your voice or subtly guiding it back to the lure if things start to get out of hand.

Assisting should blend the two worlds: a professional falconer setting the stage for a graceful capture and a friend reassuring their companion that they’re not alone in the thick of it. Imagine preparing your bird for a dance—it takes time, patience, and the right moves at the right moments.

Knowing When to Step Back

Of course, as every seasoned falconer will tell you, experience shapes your responses. There could be times when standing at a distance, ready to swoop in if necessary, might be appropriate. There’s power in knowing when your kestrel is purely in the midst of securing its prize versus when it really needs your support. Learning to read those nuances conveys growth as a falconer and a deeper understanding of your bird's needs.

Wrapping it Up

Falconry brings with it clouds of excitement, but also waves of responsibility. So next time your kestrel captures a starling and seems a bit overwhelmed, remember to act promptly and supportively. Doing so strengthens your partnership with your bird, ensuring that your relationship flourishes in this beautiful craft.

If we take anything away from this, it’s the understanding that in falconry—and life, really—it’s all about connection. Your role, at the core of this partnership, is pivotal. So, the next time you find yourself in a moment of uncertainty in the field, ask yourself: is my kestrel looking for my support? If the answer is “yes,” don’t hesitate to step in. You're building a bond that goes beyond mere hunting; it’s about trust, teamwork, and a shared love for the art of falconry. Now go out there and remember: you’ve got this!