What is the purpose of regular health checks for raptors in falconry?

The purpose of regular health checks for raptors in falconry is to ensure that the birds are healthy and meet welfare standards. Regular health assessments are crucial for monitoring any potential illnesses or injuries that could affect the bird's well-being and performance. Keeping the raptors in optimal health not only supports their physical condition for hunting but also ensures that they receive appropriate care to maintain their overall quality of life.

By conducting these checks, falconers can identify health issues early on and take necessary steps to address them, thus promoting proper nutrition, safe living conditions, and overall welfare. This emphasis on health aligns with legal and ethical standards in falconry, highlighting the responsibility falconers have toward their birds.

In the context of other options, while tracking hunting success, preparing for competitions, and evaluating flying distance are all relevant aspects of falconry, they do not encompass the fundamental necessity of ensuring the birds' health and welfare, which is paramount for any successful falconer.