What could happen if a feather is plucked during imping?

Plucking a feather during imping can lead to significant harm to the bird, and this is why the outcome mentioned is particularly concerning. Imping is the repair of a damaged feather by attaching a new feather to the existing quill; it requires precision and care. If a feather is plucked improperly, it can result in damage to the feather follicle or surrounding tissue, which may hinder the normal regrowth of feathers and potentially lead to deformities.

Moreover, if the area from which the feather was plucked becomes infected or does not heal well, the bird could suffer from complications that may impede its ability to fly or hunt effectively. This could create a serious hindrance in its overall mobility and health, leading to a state where the bird may be considered crippled. Therefore, great care must be taken during this delicate procedure to prevent any adverse effects on the bird’s physical condition and its ability to thrive in its falconry role.