What does "to carry" mean when referring to hawks?

The term "to carry" when referring to hawks specifically describes the behavior of a hawk that has captured its prey and takes flight, often to avoid the falconer or any potential threats. In this context, it denotes the action of the bird being protective of its catch and moving away from the source of disturbance. This behavior is particularly important for falconers to understand, as it signifies a successful hunt and the need for the falconer to maintain a certain distance to avoid scaring the bird or causing it to drop its quarry.

Other options do not accurately capture this specific meaning. For instance, "soaring in the air" does not relate to the capture of prey, nor does being carried in a trap or by a falconer. Those actions involve different circumstances that do not reflect the hawk's instinctive response to protect and secure its hunt. Thus, understanding the concept of "to carry" is crucial for falconry, as it relates to both the skills of the bird and the strategies a falconer must employ during a hunt.