Red-tailed Hawk (Buzzard)

This is a classic 'red' tail feather from an adult Buteo jamaicensis. Adult Red-tailed Hawks are known for their broad, rounded wings and iconic cinnamon-red tails. They are large raptors with dark brown backs and a 'belly band' of streaks across their pale undersides.

Rich rufous-orange or brick-red base color on the dorsal surface, typically featuring a thin dark subterminal band near the tip. The ventral surface is paler, often appearing a washed-out pink or cream.

Densely packed pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for structural integrity during flight; plumulaceous (downy) barbs present at the very base (calamus area) for insulation.

Firm, smooth, and aerodynamic. The surface has a matte to semi-glossy finish, designed to resist wind pressure during soaring.

Distinctive rufous-red coloration, lack of heavy barring (unlike juveniles), and a sturdy, broad rectrix shape.

Extremely versatile: found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, grasslands, desert edges, and urban parks with tall trees or telephone poles for perching.

Found throughout North America, from central Alaska and Canada south through Mexico and Central America; northern populations are migratory, while southern birds are resident.

Apex predator; primarily controls rodent and rabbit populations. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy small-mammal prey base.

Ferruginous Hawk (typically whiter tails), Red-shouldered Hawk (shorter, heavily barred black and white wings/tail), and juvenile Red-tailed Hawks (brown-banded tails).

The scream of a Red-tailed Hawk is so iconic and piercing that it is almost always used in Hollywood movies to represent any eagle or hawk, including the Bald Eagle.

The feather appears in Good condition with some minor separation of the barbs (splits) near the base and mid-vane, likely due to natural wear or handling.