American Crow (Common Crow)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows and Jays) · Primary flight feather (Remiges), likely P7 or P8
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (Remiges), likely P7 or P8
Family
Corvidae (Crows and Jays)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical with a narrow leading edge/vane and a broad trailing edge; tapered and slightly pointed tip with distinct distal emargination (notching) characteristic of corvid primaries.
Size
Estimated 22-26 cm (8.5-10.2 inches) in length. This is consistent with the mid-to-outer primary flight feathers of a medium-to-large Corvus species.
Rarity
Very Common. One of the most widespread and easily observed birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly deep black with a slight iridescent semi-gloss sheen on the dorsal surface. Under bright light, it may show subtle structural violet or blue-black highlights. The ventral (underside) surface is a slightly more matte, charcoal grey.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked and pennaceous throughout most of the vane for flight efficiency; plumulaceous (fluffy) barbs are present at the base of the calamus for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, stiff, and glossy. The surface is highly resistant to wind penetration, feeling slightly oily or waxy to the touch due to preen oil applications.
Description
This is a sturdy flight feather from a large, all-black passerine. The American Crow is an intelligent, social bird with a wingspan of about 33-39 inches. They are known for their 'caw-caw' vocalizations, complex social structures, and ability to use tools. Their plumage is entirely black, providing a distinct silhouette in flight.
Key Features
Solid black coloration, extreme vane asymmetry, distal emargination, and a distinctive light-colored base of the quill.
Habitat
Extremely versatile: found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, urban parks, suburbs, shores, and landfills. They avoid only the densest unbroken forests and driest deserts.
Geographic Range
Widely distributed across most of North America, from southern Canada throughout the continental United States to northern Mexico.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is visible wear and fraying at the tip (distal end) and some separation of the barbs ('unzipping') along the trailing edge, common in naturally molted feathers.
Interesting Facts
Crows are among the world's most intelligent animals, capable of recognizing individual human faces and passing that information to their offspring. They often engage in 'anting,' where they rub ants on their feathers to use the formic acid as a natural pesticide.
Ecological Role
Omnivorous scavengers and predators. They play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations, though they also impact songbird populations by predating nests.
Similar Species
Common Raven (larger, more pointed tip), Fish Crow (nearly identical, requires measurement or location context), and Chihuahuan Raven (white feather bases).