What is a brancher?

A brancher refers to a young hawk that has developed enough to be able to hop from branch to branch but is not yet capable of sustained flight. This stage typically occurs after the bird has fledged but before it has fully mastered flying, making it a crucial phase in the development of the bird. During this time, branchers often practice their wing muscles and learn to navigate their surroundings, which prepares them for eventual independent flight.

The term describes a transitional state in a young hawk's life cycle, indicating that while the bird is out of the nest, it has not yet achieved the full flight skills necessary for survival. Understanding this developmental stage helps falconers and bird enthusiasts monitor and support the growth of young raptors in their care.