True or false: It is desirable that your bird "crab" after striking a quarry.

The correct response is based on understanding the implications of a bird "crabbing" after striking a quarry. "Crabbing" refers to a behavior where a bird, especially a falcon, may exhibit a reaction of moving sideways, often disrupting its focus or intent on securing the prey. In falconry, the goal is for the bird to firmly grasp and hold onto its quarry after a successful strike to ensure a clean capture.

If a bird crabs after striking, it suggests a lack of control or an inability to maintain a firm hold on the prey, which is not ideal for successful hunting. Effective hunting requires the bird to exhibit confidence and precision in its actions, leading to a successful catch rather than a movement that could jeopardize this.

Moreover, falconers aim to train birds to exhibit behaviors that increase the probability of a successful hunt. Encouraging a bird to continue adhering to its quarry without distractions like crabbing aligns with these goals. Therefore, stating that it is desirable for a bird to crab after striking a quarry is incorrect, as it may indicate issues with the bird’s training or focus in the hunting context.