Canada Goose

This is a large, sturdy flight feather from a Canada Goose. The bird itself is a large waterbird with a distinctive black head and neck, white cheek patches, and a brownish body. They are known for their 'V' flight formations and loud honking calls.

Solid dark brownish-black to charcoal grey. The dorsal surface is slightly darker and more matte; the ventral surface has a subtle silvery-grey sheen. No banding or spots are present.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for aerodynamic integrity, becoming slightly plumulaceous (fluffy) only at the very base near the calamus.

Smooth, stiff, and water-repellent. The surface has a slight waxy bloom, typical of waterfowl. The leading edge (vane) is very rigid to withstand flight pressure.

Large size, solid dark brownish-black color, ivory-white thick rachis at the base, and extreme sturdiness characteristic of heavy-bodied waterfowl.

Temperate regions near water including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and increasingly common in urban parks, golf courses, and suburban lawns.

Native to North America; breeds across Canada and the northern US. Widely introduced to Europe, New Zealand, and South America. Many populations are now non-migratory / resident in urban areas.

Primary herbivore; they graze on grasses and aquatic plants. They serve as prey for large predators and their waste contributes nutrients to aquatic ecosystems.

Wild Turkey (feathers usually have iridescent sheen or different banding), Domestic Goose (often white or lighter grey), and Black Vulture (rachis is typically darker and feather shape is broader).

Canada Geese have between 20,000 and 25,000 feathers. During their annual summer molt, they lose all their flight feathers at once and are unable to fly for about 6 weeks.

Good to Fair. There is some minor 'zipper' separation of the barbs (splitting) near the trailing edge, likely from hitting the ground or light wear prior to molting.

Patriot park thinking about Tom and what to do with my life.