What should you do if your raptor catches a rat and flies into a nearby tree?

When your raptor catches prey, such as a rat, and then flies into a nearby tree, the best approach is to try to call the bird down with the lure. Using the lure encourages the bird to return to you while still having the opportunity to finish off its meal. This method helps in managing the bird’s behavior and reinforces the training bond between you and the raptor.

Calling the bird with the lure is beneficial because it allows you to maintain control over the situation. While the raptor is focused on feeding, it can become less responsive to commands. By encouraging it to come down with the lure, you ensure that it doesn't become overly comfortable or defensive with its catch, which could lead to difficulty in retrieval or management of the bird in the future.

In contrast, leaving the bird alone to eat may seem like a passive approach that could eventually lead to a loss of control over the bird. Similarly, trying to retrieve the bird directly while it is in a tree can create stress or panic for the raptor, potentially resulting in a negative experience that could affect future training sessions. Therefore, offering an alternative, appealing option through the lure is a more effective and strategic technique in falconry.