Texas Falconry Practice Exam

The species particularly noted for being hunted from the fist is the goshawk. This bird is renowned for its aggressive hunting style and ability to fly through dense cover, making it a popular choice among falconers who prefer to hunt game birds in woodlands or areas with thick vegetation.

Goshawks are often trained to hunt various prey, including squirrels, rabbits, and other small mammals, and their strong physical capabilities allow them to tackle larger game than many other hawks. Their willingness to engage in close-range hunting from the falconer's fist is a key feature that distinguishes them from other species, making them a unique asset in falconry.

While the Harris's hawk is known for its social hunting behavior and cooperation in groups, and the red-tailed hawk is often used in falconry but generally not hunted from the fist, the American kestrel is smaller and primarily used for different types of quarry. The goshawk’s distinctive hunting characteristics and techniques are why it stands out as particularly suited for this method of hunting.