Calling off.—Luring a hawk (see Lure) from the hand of an assistant.
Carry.—A hawk is said to “carry” when she flies away with the quarry on the approach of the falconer.
Cast.—Two hawks which may be used for flying together are called a “cast,” not necessarily a pair.
Casting.—The oblong or egg-shaped ball, consisting of feathers, bones, &c., which all hawks (and insectivorous birds) throw up after the nutritious part of their food has been digested. Also the fur or feathers given them to assist the process.
Cere.—The naked wax-like skin above the beak.
Check.—A hawk is said to fly at “check” when she flies at a bird other than the intended object of pursuit.
Clutching.—Taking the quarry in the feet as the short-winged hawks do. Falcons occasionally “clutch.”
Come to.—A hawk is said to “come to” when she begins to get tame.
Coping.—Cutting the beak or talons of a hawk.
Crab.—To fight.