What does captive breeding mean in the context of falconry?

Captive breeding in the context of falconry refers specifically to the commercial breeding of birds of prey that are kept in captivity. This practice involves breeding raptors in controlled environments to produce offspring that are often used in falconry or to help maintain populations for conservation purposes. Captive breeding can contribute significantly to ensuring that certain species do not decline in numbers and can meet the demands of falconers seeking trained birds without depleting wild populations.

By focusing on raising and breeding raptors in a commercial setting, it allows for a sustainable source of birds for both falconry and conservation efforts. This ensures that captive breeders adhere to specific regulations and ethical guidelines regarding the treatment and breeding practices of these birds.