Canada Goose

A classic 'goose feather' from a large waterbird known for its black head and neck with a white 'chinstrap'. The bird has a brownish-gray body and a heavy build.

Bi-colored; a dark brownish-charcoal distal end fading into a light tan and creamy white proximal base; no distinct banding or iridescence

Densely pennaceous at the distal (top) half for weatherproofing, transitioning to plumulaceous (downy) at the base for insulation

Smooth and somewhat stiff at the tip; soft, fluffy, and flexible at the base; matte finish typical of waterfowl contour plumage

Rounded tip, dark-to-light gradient, large plumulaceous base, and a relatively thick, sturdy calamus for a contour feather

Found near fresh, brackish, or salt water: ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, and frequently in urban parks and golf courses

Native to North America; widespread from the Arctic to the southern US; introduced and established in Europe and New Zealand

Primary herbivore that influences plant community structure; also serves as a prey species for large predators and scavengers

Cackling Goose (nearly identical but smaller), Greater White-fronted Goose (more uniform gray), or Mallard (different color palette)

Canada Geese often mate for life and are famous for their V-shaped flight formations which reduce wind resistance for the flock

Good; shows slight wear at the terminal edge and minor separation of the barbs at the mid-section; calamus appears intact