Red-tailed Hawk (Eastern or Western types)

A robust raptor with a broad, rounded wing and a trademark cinnamon-red tail (in adults). This feather represents the engine of the bird's flight, providing the thrust and lift needed for its characteristic soaring behavior.

Mottled brown and off-white/cream banding. The dorsal surface shows darker brown bars against a lighter background. The ventral surface (underside) is paler. This specific patterning is typical of juvenile or 'light morph' adults, though juveniles often show more uniform banding on the wings.

Densely pennaceous throughout the main vane for aerodynamic lift; plumulaceous (downy) barbs are visible at the very base near the calamus (quill).

Stiff and smooth to the touch; the pennaceous barbs are tightly zipped to form a wind-resistant surface. The trailing edge feels slightly softer than the rigid leading edge.

Bold, irregular transverse banding; significant asymmetry; stiff, light-colored rachis; and the distinctive 'Buteo notch' on the outer vane.

Extremely versatile: found in open woodlands, prairies, agricultural fields, deserts, and increasingly in urban and suburban areas with tall trees or buildings for nesting.

Year-round resident across most of North America, from central Alaska and Canada south to Panama and the West Indies.

Apex predator primarily feeding on small mammals (rodents, rabbits) and reptiles, helping to regulate prey populations in a wide variety of ecosystems.

Red-shouldered Hawk (smaller, more white-and-black contrast), Ferruginous Hawk (typically lighter/paler), and Cooper's Hawk (shorter, more rounded wing feathers).

The 'screech' of the Red-tailed Hawk is so iconic and piercing that Hollywood filmmakers almost always use its recording for the voice of any eagle or hawk on screen, regardless of the actual species shown.

Good condition, though there is visible separation of the barbs ('zipped' quality is lost in segments) likely due to handling or natural wear. No signs of parasites or severe sun bleaching.