What can happen to a raptor that has been imprinted?

When a raptor is imprinted, it becomes strongly attached to humans in its early developmental stage, often viewing them as caregivers or parental figures. This imprinting can significantly impact the bird's ability to survive in the wild. Because the imprinted raptor associates humans with safety and care, it may lack the necessary instincts to hunt for food, avoid predators, or recognize natural threats in its environment.

Imprinted birds typically do not develop the skills essential for independent survival, which includes foraging for food and navigating their habitat. This reliance on humans makes it challenging for them to adapt if they are ever released into the wild, meaning they might not thrive or may struggle to sustain themselves away from human influence.