Before releasing a wild caught raptor, which of the following is NOT necessary?

Releasing a wild caught raptor involves careful consideration and preparation to ensure the safety and well-being of the bird. Securing the raptor in a cage is not a necessary step before release. In fact, the purpose of securing the raptor in a cage is typically for transport, rehabilitation, or acclimatization to captivity, rather than as a step before releasing it back into the wild.

In the context of preparing for the bird’s return to its natural habitat, checking for other raptors in the area is crucial to prevent potential territorial conflicts or predation risks. Removing seamless bands is important because such banding can hinder the bird's ability to hunt or interact naturally, and it is illegal to release a banded bird without proper permissions. Lastly, ensuring that the raptor is a native California raptor is essential to comply with state regulations and to help maintain the ecosystem balance. Thus, while securing the raptor is a common procedure in handling, it is not a necessary action right before its release into the wild.