Why is it not advisable to fly birds during the molt?

Study for the California Falconry Apprentice Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Flying birds during the molt is not advisable for several important reasons that highlight the physical and physiological challenges faced by birds during this time.

When birds are molting, they go through a natural process of shedding old feathers and growing new ones. This process can be quite energy-intensive and often requires increased nutrition and care for the bird. If a bird is flown during this demanding time, it may not have sufficient energy reserves or nutritional support to perform well, which could lead to fatigue or health issues.

Additionally, there's a risk of injury, such as breaking a blood feather. Blood feathers are new feathers that are still developing and have a blood supply running through them. If a bird were to engage in strenuous activities like flying during molt, it could easily damage these fragile feathers, leading to bleeding and potential infections.

Environmental factors also play a role. The presence of leaves on trees and other vegetation makes it harder for birds to detect quarry, hindering their hunting effectiveness and increasing frustration for both the falconer and the bird.

Given these aspects, it is clear that all the reasons combined reveal why flying birds during their molt is not advisable. Therefore, it's prudent to allow birds to complete this critical phase of feather growth before resuming regular flying or hunting activities

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