Red-tailed Hawk

This is a sturdy wing feather from a Red-tailed Hawk, a large raptor known for its broad, rounded wings and iconic cinnamon-red tail (in adults). The bird typically has a dark 'patagial' mark on the leading edge of the wing and a belly band of dark streaks.

Bicolor pattern featuring a dark chocolate brown trailing vane and a mottled, cream-to-white leading vane with brown speckling. The underside is notably paler and more silvery-white.

The distal portion is pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs for flight efficiency; the proximal base is plumulaceous (downy) for thermoregulation.

Firm and smooth on the pennaceous vane with a semi-matte finish. The surface is designed to be aerodynamic and wind-resistant.

The distinctive mottling on the outer vane contrasted with the solid dark inner vane, combined with the size and stiff rachis characteristic of a Buteo hawk.

Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, prairies, deserts, and urban parks with tall perching structures.

Breeds throughout most of North America, from central Alaska and Canada southward to Panama and the West Indies.

Apex predator primarily feeding on small mammals (voles, mice, rabbits), helping to regulate rodent populations.

Red-shouldered Hawk (smaller, more distinct white barring), Ferruginous Hawk (typically lighter or with different rufous wash), and Rough-legged Hawk (different banding near base).

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

Fair to Good. There is significant breakage and separation (notching) in the middle of the trailing vane, likely due to mechanical wear or impact during the molt process.