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Likely Canada Goose (also called Canadian Goose); species identification is uncertain from this single feather.
Likely a long wing flight feather, possibly a secondary; exact position is indeterminate.

Likely Canada Goose (also called Canadian Goose); species identification is uncertain from this single feather.

Kingdom Animalia; Phylum Chordata; Class Aves; Order Anseriformes; Family Anatidae; Genus Branta; Species Branta canadensis (tentative).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Family: Anatidae (ducks, geese, and swans).

Shape
Long, narrow, tapered feather with a pointed tip and noticeably asymmetric vane.
Size
Appears roughly 15–20 cm long in the hand; scale is approximate, and species-specific comparison is unreliable.
Learn more about Likely Canada Goose (also called Canadian Goose); species identification is uncertain from this single feather. in the encyclopedia →

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Description

The image shows a long, pointed gray-and-white feather held in a hand. Its form suggests a large waterbird wing feather, but coloration alone cannot identify the bird securely.

Colour & Pattern

Dark gray-brown along one vane, transitioning to pale gray or whitish on the other and near the base; no obvious bars or spots.

Barb Structure

Compact, interlocking pennaceous vanes; the visible lower portion is partly obscured by fingers. No clear damage or aftershaft can be assessed.

Rachis & Barb Pattern

A slender, pale central shaft is visible below the grip; barbs are closely aligned, with apparent color contrast across the vanes.

Texture & Surface

Smooth, close-knit, and slightly glossy-looking; surface texture cannot be confidently judged from the photograph.

Feather Placement

Probably from the wing, based on its elongated shape and asymmetric vanes; the image does not establish primary versus secondary.

Key Features

Narrow pointed tip, asymmetric gray-brown and pale vanes, and a visible pale shaft; no diagnostic species pattern is apparent.

Habitat

If from a Canada Goose, typical habitats include wetlands, lakes, rivers, grasslands, and urban parks, often near open water.

Geographic Range

Canada Geese occur widely across North America; many populations migrate, while others are resident, including introduced populations elsewhere.

Ecological Role

Canada Geese graze vegetation and disperse nutrients, while serving as prey for some predators. Populations vary regionally; this image cannot establish the species or its conservation status.

Similar Species

Other geese and large waterbirds can have similarly gray flight feathers. Reliable distinction usually requires feather measurements, pattern details, location, and comparison with reference specimens.

Interesting Facts

Canada Geese are highly adaptable and communicate with loud honks; some populations migrate long distances, while others remain year-round in urban areas.

Cultural Significance

Goose feathers and down have historically been used for insulation and crafts. Wild bird feathers may be legally regulated; check local rules before keeping or trading specimens.

Field Identification Tips

Record the find location and photograph both sides beside a ruler; compare the full feather with regional identification guides rather than relying on color alone.

Condition Notes

Appears intact and in good condition, with no obvious breaks or heavy fraying; age and molt status cannot be determined.

Likely Canada Goose (also called Canadian Goose); species identification is uncertain from this single feather. | Feather Identifier