American Crow

A classic primary feather from the American Crow. The bird itself is medium-sized, entirely black with a heavy bill. Crows are known for their intelligence, social roosts, and distinctive 'caw' vocalizations. They are frequently seen in Columbus scavenging or mobbing hawks.

Uniformly iridescent black/charcoal. Under direct sunlight, it may show a violet or blue-green sheen. The underside is slightly more matte and greyish-black.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs providing a rigid aerodynamic surface; the base shows a small plumulaceous (downy) section for insulation.

Smooth, glossy, and very stiff. The surface has a characteristic wax-like sheen typical of healthy corvids.

Total black coloration, strong asymmetry of the vanes, and the noticeable notch on the leading edge used for flight control.

Highly adaptable; found in woodlands, agricultural fields, city parks, and suburban areas like Columbus, Ohio.

Common year-round resident throughout most of North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico.

Generalist omnivore and scavenger; plays a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations.

Fish Crow (nearly identical, identified by call), Common Raven (much larger, more wedge-shaped tail feathers), Common Grackle (smaller, more iridescent/purple).

Crows are capable of recognizing individual human faces and can communicate specific threats to other members of their flock.

Good condition; minor fraying at the edges suggest it may be a molted feather from late summer or early fall. No signs of parasites.

Columbus Ohio