The most effective way to properly exercise a Red-tailed Hawk is to...

Taking a Red-tailed Hawk to the field and hunting with it is considered the most effective way to properly exercise this bird of prey. This method allows the hawk to engage in natural behaviors such as soaring, gliding, and pursuing quarry, which not only helps maintain its physical fitness but also stimulates its instinctual hunting capabilities. The field provides an environment that challenges the hawk, requiring it to make decisions, navigate, and respond to its surroundings, ultimately enhancing its overall health and behaviors relevant to hunting.

Engaging in hunting also helps build a strong bond between the falconer and the hawk, as trust and teamwork are crucial components of successful hunting. This experience mimics the hawk's natural activities in the wild, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

Other methods mentioned, such as flying on a creance, have their purpose in basic training and control but may not provide the same level of natural exercise and engagement. Blocking the hawk out in a busy area can provide exposure to different stimuli but is not as beneficial for physical exercise as actual hunting. Repeatedly swooping to the lure can be useful for training but lacks the comprehensive physical workout and behavioral development that occurs when hunting in the field.