What is a key factor in determining when to begin a new phase of training with a newly trapped hawk?

A key factor in determining when to begin a new phase of training with a newly trapped hawk is its responsiveness to training. This aspect is critical because a hawk that is not adequately responsive may not be mentally or physically ready to progress in training. Responsiveness can indicate how well the hawk is adapting to its new environment and accepting the training methods being employed.

In falconry, building a strong bond and mutual trust between the falconer and the bird is essential for successful training. A hawk that shows keen interest, reacts positively to stimuli, and engages actively during training sessions would be a good indicator that it's ready to advance to more complex training phases. Conversely, a lack of responsiveness might suggest the need for more foundational work before moving forward.

Moreover, while factors like the hawk's age, the time of year, and its size can influence training strategies, they do not capture the immediate and practical considerations involved in a specific hawk's training readiness as effectively as its responsiveness does. This pragmatic approach ensures that training is tailored to the individual bird's needs, fostering a more effective learning process.