This was a training day for Jura from a few years ago. She was learning the basics, essential when hunting live quarry. She is kept a little bit hungry (flying weight) when flown, as this encourages her to return to the falconer for food. She is now a very successful hunter and a joy to watch.
Harris Hawks are one of the most popular bird of prey used in Falconry because they are quick to learn and, therefore, tend to be easier to train. Female Harris hawks are powerful enough to handle any rabbit or pheasant, but in woodland the smaller faster male really shines.