What is the purpose of using a brail with a hawk?

Using a brail with a hawk primarily serves to prevent the bird from baiting. Baiting occurs when a hawk becomes agitated and begins to fly away or attempt to get out of reach, often in response to distractions or perceived threats. The brail is a strap or cord placed on the hawk that serves to hold its wings close to its body, restricting movement. This constraint allows the falconer to maintain better control over the hawk, ensuring it does not fly off unexpectedly.

While other functions such as assisting in a flight path, securing a hawk during transportation, and measuring weight are important aspects of managing a hawk, they pertain to different tools or practices within falconry. For instance, transportation would typically involve using a crate or a different harness, while weight measurements are taken through scales. The brail's specific design and purpose focus on maintaining control and preventing baiting, making it a critical tool for falconers in managing their birds effectively.