How is a raptor that is not yet a year old and can fly classified?

A raptor that is not yet a year old and is capable of flight is classified as "passage." This term refers specifically to young raptors that have recently fledged and are in the process of migrating or dispersing from their natal territories. Passage birds are typically in their first year of life and exhibit the adult flying ability, yet they are still inexperienced in hunting and survival.

The classification of passage is important for falconers and wildlife managers because it helps in understanding the bird's age, behavior, and migration status. The distinction between passage birds and adults or older juvenile birds is significant when it comes to regulations and conservation efforts, as well as the practices involved in falconry.

While the other options describe different aspects or stages of raptors, they do not accurately represent the status of a young bird that can fly. Haggard refers to an adult bird that was captured and is no longer in a wild state. Buteo denotes a genus of large birds of prey and does not apply to age classification. Similarly, the term juvenile generally describes young birds but does not indicate that they are capable of flight, as passage does. Thus, passage is the most precise classification for a flying raptor under one year old.