When a falconer’s red-tailed hawk is perched in a tree, what should a visitor avoid doing?

When a falconer’s red-tailed hawk is perched in a tree, it is important for visitors to be mindful of the bird's safety and well-being. Getting between the falconer and the hawk can create unnecessary stress for the bird, as it may feel threatened or cornered. Hawks are highly alert creatures, and an unexpected presence can startle them, leading to unpredictable behavior.

By avoiding this action, visitors help ensure that the hawk remains calm and at ease. The falconer has a close bond with their bird and typically seeks to minimize stressors in the hawk's environment. Keeping a respectful distance allows the falconer to maintain control over the situation while also safeguarding the visitor's safety, as hawks can react defensively if they feel trapped or vulnerable.

In contrast, the other choices involve either maintaining a safe distance or not interfering with the falconer's ability to manage their bird, which, while important, does not have the same direct impact on the hawk's perception of safety as positioning oneself between the falconer and the hawk does.