What does it mean to check in falconry?

In falconry, the term "check" refers specifically to the action of a hawk that changes direction or hesitates while pursuing its quarry, allowing it to gain a better position or get a clearer view of the target. This behavior is critical during hunts, as it demonstrates the bird's agility and ability to adapt to the movements of the prey. When a hawk is checking, it may momentarily pause or modify its flight path to ensure it has the best chance of successfully capturing the quarry.

The other options capture different concepts in falconry but do not accurately define the term "check." For instance, catching a bird in flight describes a different phase of the hunting process, while examining the health of a hawk pertains to veterinary care, and training a hawk for hunting is a broader aspect of the falconer's role. Understanding these terms is crucial for falconers to effectively communicate and improve their skills in the sport.