05/20/2026
Ever wonder why rehabilitators “imp” feathers on birds?
Imping is a technique used to repair broken or damaged feathers by attaching a donor feather to the bird’s existing feather shaft.
For birds in rehabilitation healthy feathers are critical. Flight feathers are not just for flying; they help with balance, steering, hunting, and survival. Even one damaged feather can impact a bird’s ability to soar, hunt, or safely return to the wild.
Without imping, a bird may need to wait months, or sometimes over a year, for a natural molt to replace damaged feathers. By carefully matching and repairing feathers, rehabilitators can help restore proper flight and potentially shorten a bird’s time in care.
Today, with the help of a few of my fellow rehabilitators, we imped two primary feathers on our girl. One more step toward release and one step closer to getting her back where she belongs.
Chi Miigwetch to Jared from A.R.K. / Association to Rescue Kritters and Kaitlyn from North Sky Raptor Sanctuary for lending their time, expertise, and helping hands. Our girl is strong, and I could not have done this without you both!
Every step in rehabilitation is a team effort and today was another important milestone on her journey.
