What should you do when your passage raptor makes its first kill?

When a passage raptor makes its first kill, the appropriate action is to make it assist with the quarry. This is important for several reasons. Allowing the bird to engage with its catch reinforces its natural instinct to hunt and provides a critical learning experience. It helps the raptor develop the skills necessary for self-sufficiency and reinforces the bond between the falconer and the bird.

In this context, making it assist means encouraging the raptor to consume part of the kill while being monitored. This interaction promotes the learning process by allowing the bird to understand the significance of its effort and the rewards that come from successfully hunting. It can also help build confidence in the raptor's abilities.

Other options, such as leaving it alone or taking the quarry away immediately, could hinder the bird's development and the natural hunting instincts that need to be nurtured. Clipping the leash on without interacting, though seemingly harmless, also misses the opportunity for essential interaction that can solidify trust and reinforce hunting behavior. Engaging with the bird at this moment is crucial for its growth as a hunter and your partnership as a falconer.