What Should Falconers Do During Extreme Weather Conditions?

When it comes to keeping our feathered friends safe, one of the most critical aspects for falconers is managing their wellbeing during extreme weather. You may wonder, what exactly should you do when the thermometer spikes or when the winds howl? Those moments aren’t just weather whims—they can make or break the health of your cherished bird.

Prioritize Safety Above All
The top priority? Ensuring your bird's safety by adjusting its housing appropriately. Take a step back and think about it: whether the summer sun feels like an oven or winter makes the world feel like an icebox, finding ways to protect your bird is crucial. Harsh weather—be it blistering heat, biting cold, torrential rain, or gusty winds—poses real risks.

Know Your Enemy: The Elements

The elements can play dirty. In extreme heat, your bird can suffer from heat stress, much like we do, while brutal cold can pose its own set of challenges, leading to hypothermia. Keep in mind that falcons, hawks, and other raptors have specific needs that demand attention.

Comfort Matters
Adjusting housing often involves creating a microclimate for your bird. A well-placed fan can help circulate air on hot days, just as proper insulation does wonders for warmth in frigid temperatures. That snug corner in your shed or garage? Perfect for providing refuge against the chill. Make sure the shelter is secure; you don’t want it turning into an unwelcome wind tunnel!

Training Needs to Be Flexible

Now, let’s chat about training. Depending on the situation, you might think it’s best to stop all training sessions altogether during extreme weather. While it’s true you should avoid taking your bird out in harsh conditions, stopping training doesn’t have to be the default move. If your setup allows for it, consider maintaining training indoors. Sometimes, these sessions can be a great way to keep the bond between you and your bird strong, even while the storm rages outside.

Food: More Than Just Portion Control
And then there's the question of feeding. Should you provide your falcon with additional food during bad weather? While you want to make sure it’s well-fed, giving extra food might not tackle the immediate risks at hand. It’s all about striking the right balance—yes, food is vital, but a safe, protected environment should take precedence.

Summing It Up: Protection is Key

So, when it boils down to it, focusing on safety and adjusting housing to meet your bird's needs during extreme weather is the way to go. Here’s the thing—taking your bird outdoors to acclimate could endanger its health in adverse conditions. You wouldn’t want to throw your buddy out into the deep freeze, right?

Remember, the safety and comfort of your feathered friend is your number one job as a falconer. Rather than getting sidetracked by tempting options of additional training or feeding, zero in on creating a secure sanctuary for your raptor. After all, a happy and healthy bird is the ultimate goal. Keep an eye on the weather and adjust accordingly—it’s not just good practice; it’s good falconry!