What is the purpose of "manning" a newly caught hawk?

Manning a newly caught hawk serves multiple important purposes, all of which contribute to the bird’s training and acclimatization.

First, it is a crucial step in establishing trust and bonding between the falconer and the hawk. This relationship is fundamental, as a strong bond encourages the bird to cooperate and engage with the falconer during hunting and training sessions.

Additionally, manning prepares the hawk for hunting by exposing it to various environments and stimuli it will encounter in the field. Through this process, the bird learns to become comfortable with the presence of people, sounds, and other potential distractions, which is vital for its success when hunting.

Furthermore, manning encourages the hawk to respond to commands. By spending time in close proximity to the falconer, the bird becomes more familiar with verbal cues, gestures, and the overall structure of the falconer's training regimen. It enhances the bird's responsiveness, making it easier to train for specific tasks related to hunting.

Therefore, manning encompasses all these elements—bonding, preparation for hunting, and teaching the bird to respond to commands—making the comprehensive answer all of the above.