What are jesses used for in falconry?

In falconry, jesses are primarily used to secure a bird's feet. They are made of leather or synthetic materials and are attached to the bird’s legs, allowing falconers to handle the bird safely and securely. This tool is essential for ensuring that the bird can be easily tethered and managed when it is not flying, enhancing both the falconer’s control and the bird's safety.

While jesses can sometimes have multiple uses in terms of attachment and control, the primary purpose is to secure the feet of the bird, facilitating safe handling and maintaining effective communication between the falconer and the bird. The misconception regarding jesses being used to open and close a hood is notable, as the hood is a separate piece designed to cover the bird’s head to keep it calm and prevent distractions. Other options, such as attaching a bird to a perch or providing food, relate to different equipment or techniques in falconry and do not accurately represent the specific function of jesses.