American Crow (Common Crow)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Ravens) · Tail feather (Rectrix)
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Feather Type
Tail feather (Rectrix)
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Ravens)
Shape
Symmetrical to slightly asymmetrical with a rounded tip and broad, parallel-sided outline.
Size
Estimated 15-18 cm (6-7 inches) in length, consistent with the central rectrices of a large passerine.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widespread and easily recognized birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly iridescent black with a subtle blue-violet or greenish structural sheen visible under direct light; underside is a flatter, matte charcoal gray.
Barb Structure
Exclusively pennaceous throughout the main vane with tightly interlocking barbules; small plumulaceous section near the basal calamus.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, glossy, and relatively stiff; the surface has a tactile oily sheen typical of corvids which helps with water repellency.
Description
This is a classic tail feather from an American Crow. The bird itself is entirely black, including the bill and legs, with a thick neck and a heavy, slightly hooked bill. Crows are known for their intelligent social behavior and 'caw-caw' vocalizations.
Key Features
Solid black color, subtle iridescence, rounded tip, and a thick, sturdy rachis characteristic of the Corvidae family.
Habitat
Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, urban parks, suburban yards, and shorelines.
Geographic Range
Resident throughout most of North America from southern Canada to northern Mexico.
Condition Notes
Good condition; slight mechanical wear (fraying) on the trailing edges and some minor separation of barbs near the mid-section, likely a naturally molted feather.
Interesting Facts
Crows are among the most intelligent animals on Earth, capable of using tools, recognizing individual human faces, and mourning their dead in 'funerals.'
Ecological Role
Omnivorous scavenger and predator; plays a vital role in nutrient cycling and seed dispersal, and acts as an early warning system for other wildlife.
Similar Species
Common Raven (larger, more pointed tip), Fish Crow (nearly identical, requires size/voice comparison), and Black Vulture (much larger, different texture).