Which of the following best defines a 'falconer'?

A falconer is defined as a person who is legally permitted to take and fly raptors under a valid permit. This definition is important because it emphasizes the legal and regulated aspects of falconry, which is a practice that involves the training and hunting of birds of prey. Falconers must adhere to specific laws and guidelines that govern the capture, care, and use of raptors, ensuring that both the birds and the practice itself are managed sustainably and ethically.

This distinction between falconry and other interactions with raptors is significant. Raising raptors for commercial purposes, strictly observing them in their natural habitat, or studying their biology, while all valid activities, do not encapsulate the hands-on, interactive nature of falconry. Falconry specifically entails the training and flying of raptors for hunting, which requires specific expertise and legal authorization.