Red-shouldered Hawk

This feather represents the iconic 'zebra-striped' wing of the Red-shouldered Hawk. The bird itself is medium-sized with a rufous (reddish) chest and shoulders. In flight, they are known for a translucent 'crescent' window near the wingtips and a rapid, rhythmic flapping style interspersed with gliding.

Striking bold pattern consisting of alternating dark chocolate-brown or blackish bands and crisp white to creamy-white bands. The rachis is white at the base, darkening significantly through the pigmented bands.

Mostly pennaceous and tightly interlocked for flight efficiency; some plumulaceous (downy) structure at the base of the calamus for insulation; barbs appear slightly worn at the edges.

Smooth and stiff along the vane with a somewhat matte finish; the upper surface feels slightly waxy to provide wind resistance and some water repellency.

High-contrast black-and-white banding; square/rounded tip; lack of extreme asymmetry; consistent band width across the vane.

Deciduous or mixed woodlands, often near water sources like rivers, swamps, or wooded wetlands; also common in suburban areas with mature tree canopies.

Common throughout the Eastern United States and California; many populations are year-round residents, though northern birds may migrate to the Southern US or Mexico.

Apex predator of small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles; serves as an important indicator of forest and wetland health.

Broad-winged Hawk (shorter, less frequent banding), Red-tailed Hawk (lack bold white bands on wings), Cooper's Hawk (longer, narrower tail feathers with gray/brown banding).

Red-shouldered Hawks are highly vocal, often identified by their 'kee-aah' call. Blue Jays are famous for mimicking this specific hawk's call to scare other birds away from feeders.

Fair to Good; shows some 'chipping' or fraying on the trailing edge (secondary wear) and some slight separation of the barbs, likely a naturally molted feather from the summer season.