If a raptor is free-lofted in the mews, how should the windows be secured?

Securing windows with vertical round rods is the most effective option when a raptor is free-lofted in the mews. Vertical round rods provide a barrier that prevents the bird from attempting to fly through the window, offering both safety and security. This setup allows for ventilation and light while maintaining a strong enough enclosure to protect the bird from possible escape or accidents.

The design of vertical round rods is ideal as it minimizes the risk of injury, compared to other methods that may not offer the same level of protection against an active, large bird of prey. This configuration also prevents larger raptors from grasping or getting caught on potential sharp edges, making it a practical choice for falconers.

In contrast, the other options do not provide the same degree of safety or effectiveness. Heavy gauge welded wire may allow for larger openings that a bird can potentially navigate through, while horizontal rods could also create openings that a raptor might exploit more easily. Insect screens primarily serve to keep insects out and might not offer sufficient strength or security for a free-lofted bird, thus failing to provide the necessary safety protocols needed in falconry.