When a goshawk is riding on your fist in a relaxed position with the beak closed, what does this indicate?

When a goshawk is riding on your fist in a relaxed position with its beak closed, it indicates that the hawk is comfortable and at ease in its environment. This relaxed demeanor is a sign that the bird is settled and prepared for the next stage of interaction, which often includes being released to hunt. A calm posture reflects confidence and readiness, suggesting that the hawk trusts its handler and feels secure.

The other interpretations of the goshawk's behavior don't align with this relaxed state. An agitated bird would likely display open feathers, a vocal response, or an alert posture rather than a calm one. If the hawk were tired, you might observe signs of lethargy or a desire to perch rather than the poised readiness suggested by its behavior. Indifference to surroundings may be indicated by a lack of engagement or awareness, which contrasts with the bird being in a relaxed yet alert stance when anticipating an activity like hunting.