What does it mean when a hawk "refuses" in falconry?

In falconry, when a hawk "refuses," it specifically refers to the situation where the bird does not fly at the quarry it is trained to pursue. This behavior can occur for various reasons, such as the hawk being inexperienced, distracted, or lacking motivation, possibly due to environmental factors or the condition of the quarry. Understanding refusal is crucial for falconers as it allows them to assess the performance of their bird and make necessary adjustments to training or their approach to hunting.

The other options mention different actions that a hawk might take but do not accurately describe the concept of refusal in falconry. Pulling out of a flight, striking at quarry without binding, and seeking cover from quarry are all distinct behaviors unrelated to the specific scenario of a hawk declining to engage with intended prey.