American Crow (Common Crow)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Ravens) · Primary flight feather (Remiges), likely P4-P6 based on the degree of emargination.
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (Remiges), likely P4-P6 based on the degree of emargination.
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Ravens)
Shape
Asymmetrical vane typical of flight feathers. The leading edge (outer vane) is narrower than the trailing edge (inner vane). The tip appears somewhat rounded but shows clear emargination (notching) on the outer vane.
Size
Approximately 7.5 to 9 inches (19-23 cm) in length. This is consistent with the primary feathers of a medium-sized Corvid.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widely recognized and abundant birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Solid iridescent black or very dark charcoal grey. Under certain lighting, a subtle violet or blue sheen may be visible. The underside is slightly more matte/greyish than the dorsal surface. The rachis is dark but transitions to a lighter, translucent calamus at the base.
Barb Structure
Mainly pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs for flight efficiency; the base transitions into plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation. The barbs near the tip show some fraying and mechanical damage.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and somewhat glossy on the upper surface due to melanin and structural iridescence. The vane is stiff and resilient.
Description
This is a primary flight feather from an American Crow. The American Crow is an all-black passerine known for its intelligence and social complexity. They have a heavy bill, rounded wings, and a short, squared-off tail. This feather reflects the bird's hardy nature and specialized flight capabilities.
Key Features
Solid black coloration with no banding, asymmetrical vane shape for flight, and a size roughly between 7 and 9 inches.
Habitat
Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, suburban areas, city parks, and shorelines.
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout most of North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Northernmost populations may migrate short distances south in winter.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is notable 'zipper' separation between barbs and some mechanical wear at the tip, likely from contact with vegetation or during the bird's regular activities before molting.
Interesting Facts
Crows are known to use tools, recognize individual human faces, and even hold 'funerals' for deceased flock members. They are among the most intelligent of all bird species.
Ecological Role
Generalist omnivore and scavenger. They play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations, though they also predate on smaller bird nests.
Similar Species
Common Raven (significantly larger feather with more pointed tip), Fish Crow (nearly identical, usually requires vocalization or size comparison to distinguish), and Chihuahuan Raven.