What can happen if a raptor's jesses are too long?

When a raptor's jesses are too long, it can lead to the bird straddling the perch. Jesses are the straps attached to a raptor's legs that allow handlers to secure the bird and provide control. If these jesses are excessively long, the bird may have the ability to spread its legs too far apart, causing it to straddle the perch rather than perch comfortably. This can inhibit the bird’s ability to maintain proper posture and balance, potentially leading to discomfort or difficulty in resting.

It's important to ensure that jesses are the appropriate length to allow for freedom of movement while also keeping the raptor securely attached to the perch. Adjusting the jess length appropriately is crucial for the comfort and welfare of the bird.