What is a common practice to maintain the performance of raptor bells?

Maintaining the performance of raptor bells is essential for falconers to ensure their birds can communicate effectively and be tracked during flight. Annealing, which involves heating and then cooling metal in a controlled manner, is utilized to relieve internal stresses and improve the metal's structure. By using a hot plate for annealing bells, the alloy can regain flexibility and durability, thus maintaining a consistent sound and function.

The importance of this method lies in the fact that continued use can cause metal fatigue, leading to diminished performance over time. By annealing bells periodically, falconers can prolong their operational effectiveness and prevent issues that might arise from cracked or weakened metal.

While polishing with wax may enhance the appearance and possibly provide a light protective layer against rust, it does not address structural integrity. Regularly replacing bells is not a practical approach to maintenance since it can be costly and time-consuming, and using them only during training does not assist in maintaining their performance during actual flight conditions. Proper care through annealing is a proactive way to keep raptor bells in optimal working condition.