What does the act of "to rake" involve?

The act of "to rake" in the context of falconry specifically refers to striking at quarry without physically binding to it. This term describes a behavior where a hawk or falcon makes a swift, aggressive motion toward the target but does not secure or grip it. This behavior can be a part of the hunting dynamics where the bird engages the quarry but may not be successful in capturing it.

Understanding this action is crucial for falconers, as it highlights the importance of both the hunting strategies of raptors and the training implications for the birds they manage. Recognizing the intent and outcome of a raking action helps falconers better understand their hawk's behavior and enables them to fine-tune their training techniques accordingly.