What is primarily seized in the act of binding?

The act of binding primarily refers to the process of securing the quarry, which is either a captured animal that is hunted or caught. In falconry, when a bird captures its prey, the binding process involves holding or restraining the quarry to prevent it from escaping and ensure a successful catch. This connection is crucial in hunting scenarios where the falcon needs to maintain control over the food after capture.

While the other choices may have relevance in different contexts, they do not specifically relate to the act of binding in the same manner. Prey or food are involved but do not capture the essence of binding, which is about securing the quarry. Fingers or hands and flight or perch are more about the handler's involvement or the bird's movement rather than the specific act of binding itself. Understanding that "binding" in this context is about keeping the quarry in a secure position is vital for successful falconry practices.