Singapore’s National Parks Board rescued an injured changeable hawk-eagle. The bird was unable to fly because of burnt feathers on its wings and tail. To help this large bird fly again, they brought the avian to Jurong Bird Park. The veterinarians at the Park decided to give the bird feather implants through imping. Imping is a delicate procedure that is similar to getting hair extensions. “Unlike hair extensions, we have to be extra meticulous in ensuring that each replacement feather is carefully trimmed, measured, and arranged in the right position to match the patient’s original feather length and orientation as much as possible.” Dr. Ellen Rasidi explained.
The veterinary team replaced over 50 feathers on the bird’s wings and tails using bamboo chopsticks to place the new feathers. The new feathers do not affect the bird’s ability to fly. After the operation, the bird was released and flew back into the wild shortly.
Image credit: Jurong Bird Park