What is the purpose of a lure in falconry?

The purpose of a lure in falconry is to represent quarry for training. A lure serves as a valuable tool for falconers to condition their birds to associate it with prey, encouraging the bird to hunt and capture. When using a lure, falconers simulate the movement and action of a potential target, which helps to stimulate the bird's natural hunting instincts and improve its response during training sessions. This practice is essential in developing the bird's skills and ensuring that it is effective in the field.

In contrast, the other options address different aspects of falconry or do not relate to the primary function of a lure. For instance, while protecting a falconer's hand or securing a bird's perch are important considerations in falconry, these functions do not pertain to the lure's specific role in training. Additionally, transporting a bird is typically handled through more suitable equipment rather than a lure. Thus, the lure's primary and most critical purpose remains its role in representing quarry during training activities.