What condition can you assess by checking the keel of a raptor?

The keel, which is the prominent ridge on the breastbone of birds, is a vital indicator of a raptor's overall condition. By palpating the keel, a falconer can assess whether the bird is at a healthy weight or if it is underweight, which can signal issues with nutrition or health. A well-defined keel suggests that the raptor is in good physical condition, while an overly prominent or sharp keel may indicate that the bird is underweight or not receiving adequate care.

This assessment is significantly linked to the general health of the bird, as it reflects not only the bird's weight status but also its nutritional intake and overall vitality. The other options, while relevant to raptor care, do not directly correlate to assessing the keel. For instance, weight can certainly be inferred but is not the primary outcome of a keel assessment, and feather quality and behavior relate more to other aspects of health and management rather than the condition indicated specifically by the keel. Thus, evaluating the keel is a straightforward and effective method for assessing the overall health condition of a raptor.