What does it mean if a bird is described as imprinted?

When a bird is described as imprinted, it refers to a particular type of social and behavioral development that occurs primarily in young birds. Imprinting happens when a bird, usually at a critical stage of development, forms a strong attachment to the first living thing it sees, which is often a human caregiver rather than its own species. This can lead to the bird responding more to humans than to other birds of its kind, affecting its behavior in various ways.

Imprinting can result in a strong bond between the bird and its owner, but the term specifically emphasizes the social learning process that leads to this bond.

Imprinting affects the bird's ability to relate to its own species, its hunting behavior, and its acceptance of social structures, often making imprinted birds less adept at interacting with other raptors. Consequently, while other options may mention aspects that are influenced by imprinting (like bonding with the owner), the definition of imprinting itself is primarily connected with how the bird was raised—typically in conditions that isolate it from its natural social group.