American Crow
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies) · Primary flight feather (remex), likely from the outer wing (P5-P8 range)
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (remex), likely from the outer wing (P5-P8 range)
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical with a narrow leading vane and broad trailing vane; tapered toward a rounded tip with distinct emargination on the outer web.
Size
Approximately 7 to 9 inches (18-23 cm) in length; the width is consistent with a medium-large passerine primary.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widely recognized and frequently encountered birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly charcoal black to deep ebony. Under certain lighting, it may show a subtle violet or greenish iridescent sheen characteristic of corvids.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous and tightly interlocked throughout the majority of the vane for aerodynamic flight, transition to plumulaceous near the calamus.
Texture & Surface
Stiff and relatively smooth with a slight matte-to-satin finish. The trailing edge feels softer than the rigid leading edge.
Description
A large, all-black passerine with a heavy bill. Crows are known for their intelligence, social structure, and 'caw-caw' vocalizations. This feather reflects their robust, all-dark plumage designed for durability.
Key Features
Deep black coloration, significant asymmetry of the vanes, and a sturdy, dark rachis. Lack of white or gray base helps distinguish it from some raptor feathers.
Habitat
Extremely versatile: found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, urban parks, suburban yards, and shorelines.
Geographic Range
Widespread across North America from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Permanent resident in most of its range, with some northern populations migrating slightly south.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. The trailing vane shows significant fraying and separation of the barbs ('zipped' barbicels have come undone), likely due to environmental wear or post-molt damage.
Interesting Facts
Crows are capable of facial recognition and can remember specific humans who have threatened them, passing this information to other members of their murder (flock).
Ecological Role
Omnivorous scavenger and predator; they play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations, but also impact songbird nests.
Similar Species
Common Raven (larger, more wedge-shaped tail feathers), Fish Crow (nearly identical, identified better by voice), and Brewers Blackbird (much smaller).