American Crow
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies) · Secondary Flight Feather (Remiges)
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos (Confidence: High)
Feather Type
Secondary Flight Feather (Remiges)
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
Shape
Slightly asymmetrical vane with a broad, rounded tip and a slightly curved outline characteristic of inner wing feathers.
Size
Approximately 5 inches (12.7 cm) in length. This is consistent with a secondary flight feather from a medium-sized passerine like a crow.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widespread and easily recognizable birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly charcoal black to deep soot-grey. Under certain lighting, it may show a subtle iridescent violet or blue sheen characteristic of corvids. The underside is slightly more matte and lighter grey.
Barb Structure
The structure is primarily pennaceous and tightly interlocked for flight efficiency, with a small plumulaceous (fluffy) section at the base of the quill.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and somewhat stiff with a satin-to-glossy finish. The surface is designed to be aerodynamic and weather-resistant.
Description
This is a sleek, dark secondary feather from an American Crow. The American Crow is a large, all-black passerine known for its high intelligence and social nature. They have heavy bills, fan-shaped tails, and a distinctive 'caw' vocalization.
Key Features
Solid black coloration without banding, rounded tip, and a 5-inch length that distinguishes it from the larger Common Raven or smaller blackbirds.
Habitat
Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, city parks, shorelines, and suburban residential areas.
Geographic Range
Common year-round throughout most of North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico.
Condition Notes
The feather appears to be in Good condition, likely a naturally molted specimen. There is minor wear at the edges (fraying) and some light dust or 'bloom' on the surface.
Interesting Facts
Crows are among the most intelligent animals on Earth, capable of using tools, recognizing individual human faces, and mourning their dead in communal gatherings.
Ecological Role
Omnivorous scavengers and predators that play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations. They are also sensitive indicators of West Nile Virus.
Similar Species
Fish Crow (nearly identical, requires geographical context), Common Raven (much larger, 7+ inches), and Common Grackle (smaller, more iridescent/bronze).
Notes
it’s more black then brown and it’s relatively small, about 5 inches