What can be a sign that a hawk is not yet ready for a free flight?

A hawk that fails to follow a lure is demonstrating a lack of readiness for free flight. In falconry, following a lure is a critical behavior that indicates the bird's engagement and willingness to fly and hunt. This action shows that the hawk has developed enough trust and bond with the falconer, as well as the necessary physical condition and motivation to fly after a target.

When a hawk does not respond to the lure, it may signal that the bird is either not accustomed to the lure's function, hasn't fully acclimated to the falconer, or lacks the eagerness to engage in the act of flying for prey. This behavior suggests that the bird needs more training, socialization, or conditioning to be prepared for a successful and safe free flight experience.

While other options may also indicate issues with the hawk’s readiness, they do not directly address the critical aspect of engaging with the lure, which is fundamental to a successful hunting partnership in falconry.