How long might an Eagle be in the possession of a Master Falconer?

The correct answer pertains to the principle of rehabilitation within the context of falconry laws and ethics. When an eagle or any raptor is in need of rehabilitation due to injury, illness, or other factors, it remains in the possession of a licensed falconer until that bird is ready to be released back into the wild or until it can no longer survive independently in its natural habitat. This timeframe is dictated by the needs of the individual bird rather than arbitrary timelines set by the falconer.

Master Falconers play a crucial role in this rehabilitation process, ensuring that birds receive proper care and training, which might be necessary before they can successfully return to the wild. This aligns with the ethical responsibility falconers have to the health and well-being of the birds in their care, allowing them to make informed decisions focused on the best outcomes for the raptors.

The other options do not account for the welfare and recovery needs of the eagle, making them unsuitable in this context. For instance, indefinite possession is not ethical or legal under falconry regulations, as birds should be returned to their natural habitat when possible. Similarly, possession until the next molt or at the falconer's choice does not reflect the need for rehabilitation, which is the