IMPING refers to replacement of lost or broken feathers. The term is known among falconers, those who raise and fly falcon raptors. At the Clinch River Raptor Center, a few birds will fly so aggressively while in rehab cages that feathers may be lost. The hawk shown needed a feather replacement. Note how this is done and look at the supplies needed. A feather shaft is prepared to have a bamboo stick cemented in place and on that stick is a replacement feather. This is a remarkably strong method and assists the bird in flight until new feathers are grown. The blood bearing shaft shows a blue color and is a living, growing feather. Care is taken not to damage these important developing feathers.