Red-shouldered Hawk
Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Accipitriformes; Family: Accipitridae; Genus: Buteo; Species: Buteo lineatus · Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites) · Flight feather, specifically a Secondary (remige)
Species
Buteo lineatus (Confidence: High)
Feather Type
Flight feather, specifically a Secondary (remige)
Family
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
Shape
Relatively symmetrical with a broad vane and rounded tip; typical of inner wing feathers for lift and stability.
Size
Estimated 6 to 8 inches in length. This is consistent with the secondary feathers of an adult Buteo lineatus.
Rarity
Common within its range, though often more heard (classic 'kee-a' call) than seen in dense canopy.
Color & Pattern
Distinctive high-contrast banding. Deep brownish-black or charcoal bars alternate with crisp white-to-cream bands. The tip is dark with a thin white terminal edge.
Barb Structure
Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs providing a firm, aerodynamic surface; plumulaceous (fluffy) barbs are visible near the base (calamus).
Texture & Surface
Smooth, firm, and slightly glossy on the dorsal surface; the underside is more matte with a silvery-white sheen on the light bands.
Description
This feather belongs to the Red-shouldered Hawk, a medium-sized forest hawk. Adults have a beautiful rufous-colored chest and distinctive 'checkered' black-and-white wing patterns. This secondary feather shows the classic high-contrast banding that makes this species easy to identify in flight from below.
Key Features
Bold white-and-black alternating bands of roughly equal width and a slightly rounded tip; much more contrast than the mottled brown of a Red-tailed Hawk.
Habitat
Found in deciduous or mixed woodlands, often near water sources like rivers, swamps, or wooded wetlands.
Geographic Range
Common throughout the Eastern United States, portions of the California coast, and south into Mexico. Eastern populations are semi-migratory.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the barbs are mostly intact though some separation is visible near the base, likely due to natural wear or the molting process.
Interesting Facts
Red-shouldered Hawks are highly vocal and are known for their 'kee-a' call, which is frequently mimicked by Blue Jays seeking to clear a bird feeder.
Ecological Role
Apex predator of the forest mid-story; they control populations of small mammals, reptiles (snakes), and amphibians.
Similar Species
Broad-winged Hawk (bands are wider and fewer), Red-tailed Hawk (lack bold white banding, more mottled/brown), Cooper's Hawk (longer, more tapered feathers).