Likely Red-tailed Hawk (also called the chickenhawk); identification is tentative from one feather.

The specimen is a long, brown, finely barred raptor feather. A Red-tailed Hawk is a large, broad-winged North American hawk with a characteristic rusty adult tail, soaring flight, and raspy descending scream; the feather alone does not establish that identification.

Dark brown overall with numerous narrow buff-to-rufous crossbars and a dark shaft. This pattern occurs in several hawks and owls; the image does not show enough diagnostic detail to confirm species or surface differences.

Pennaceous vanes with interlocking barbs; the distal edge looks separated or frayed in places. No clear aftershaft or specialized owl-like fringe is visible.

The rachis is dark, straight, and relatively robust, with barred coloring continuing across the vanes; barbs are closely set but appear uneven near the tip.

Matte to slightly glossy brown surface; the vane appears moderately stiff, with visible wear and some loosened barbs.

Probably from a wing, based on its length and asymmetry; a tail feather is less likely but cannot be excluded from this view.

Long asymmetric vane, dark rachis, and fine brown crossbars suggest a large bird of prey, but these traits are shared by multiple species and are insufficient for a confident species-level ID.

If from a Red-tailed Hawk, likely source habitats include open country, woodland edges, farmland, and urban areas, where the bird hunts from perches.

Red-tailed Hawks occur widely across North America and parts of Central America; many are resident, while northern birds may move south seasonally.

Red-tailed Hawks are mid-to-top-level predators that help regulate rodents and other small animals. They are widespread and generally adaptable, though local populations can be affected by habitat change, poisoning, and collisions.

Barred feathers of Red-shouldered Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, and large owls may look similar. Reliable separation usually requires feather position, exact measurements, and comparison with reference specimens.

Red-tailed Hawks are adaptable predators and often hunt by soaring or watching from elevated perches. Their familiar scream is frequently used in films as a generic eagle or hawk call.

Raptor feathers have cultural significance for some Indigenous peoples, but possession and use are regulated in many jurisdictions. In the United States, most native raptor feathers are protected; do not keep or trade one without checking applicable laws.

Photograph both sides beside a ruler and note where it was found; wing feathers near a perch or nest may offer context, but location alone is not proof. Avoid collecting feathers from protected birds unless legally authorized.

Appears naturally shed or collected, with some fraying and barb separation; no obvious oil staining or severe breakage. Overall condition: fair to good.