What is the term 'tiercel' commonly used to identify?

The term 'tiercel' refers specifically to male falcons, particularly those in the genus Falco. It is derived from an old French word meaning “one-third,” which historically referred to the fact that male birds of prey are often one-third smaller than their female counterparts. In falconry context, understanding the distinction between male and female birds is crucial, as it impacts training, handling, and hunting abilities. While the other terms listed relate to various aspects of falconry or ecology, they do not specifically define the gender of the birds as 'tiercel' does with clarity and precision, making it a fundamental term for those involved in the practice.