What does "passager" refer to in the context of falconry?

In the context of falconry, the term "passager" specifically refers to a wild raptor that has been taken in its first year of life. This is significant because young birds, or passagers, are generally more adaptable to training and human interaction than older, more established birds. The capture of passagers is often preferred by falconers seeking to establish a bond and train the bird effectively for hunting.

Understanding the definition of a passager emphasizes the importance of age and development in a raptor's training and handling. This distinction can influence a falconer's choice when selecting a bird for falconry, as well as how they approach the training process.