Can you keep feathers from a raptor that dies in captivity?

In falconry practice and regulations, feathers from a raptor that dies in captivity can be retained specifically for imping purposes. Imping refers to the process of repairing the feathers of a bird of prey using the feathers of the same species or another raptor. This is an important skill in falconry, as healthy feathers are vital for the falcon's flight ability and overall well-being.

Retaining feathers for imping ensures that a falconer has the necessary materials to maintain their bird's quality of flight and assist in its rehabilitation, if needed. This is in contrast to other usages of feathers, such as selling or keeping them for aesthetic purposes which may not align with conservation or legal guidelines surrounding the care of raptors. Therefore, the ability to keep feathers strictly for imping makes this choice correct and emphasizes the practical application of falconry skills in the care of the bird rather than for sale or personal keepsakes.