What does the term "intermewed" refer to in falconry?

The term "intermewed" refers specifically to a bird that has been kept in captivity for at least one year, often during which it has completed one full molt cycle. This process involves the replacement of old feathers with new ones, which is crucial for a bird of prey to maintain its flying abilities and overall health. In falconry, an intermewed bird signifies that it has had sufficient time to acclimate to its environment, understand its handler, and possibly develop a bond, making it more suitable for training and hunting. Keeping a bird for a full year provides an opportunity for its attributes and training capabilities to be well-assessed, enhancing the falconer's effectiveness in utilizing the bird for falconry activities.