What defines a passage raptor?

A passage raptor refers specifically to a young bird of prey, typically less than one year old, that has fledged and left its nest but has not yet reached full maturity. This stage is significant in the life cycle of a raptor as it transitions from dependence on parental care to self-sufficiency. During this period, the bird is often still honing its hunting skills and may be seen wandering or migrating to better hunting grounds. Understanding this definition is crucial for those involved in falconry and wildlife management, as it helps differentiate between various stages of a raptor’s life and informs conservation and training practices.

The other options describe different life stages or behaviors that do not align with the definition of a passage raptor. For instance, a raptor that has just hatched would still be in the egg or nest stage, immature and reliant on parental care. Similarly, a raptor that does not leave the nest is not a passage raptor since it is still in the nestling stage. Lastly, a fully mature raptor is one that has completed its first year and is capable of breeding, well beyond the passage stage.