Red-tailed Hawk

This is a signature tail feather from an adult Red-tailed Hawk. The bird itself is a large raptor with a broad wingspan (up to 4.5 feet), known for its 'kree-eee-ar' scream and soaring flight. Juvenile birds lack this red tail, possessing brown banded tails instead.

Distinctive rufous (brick-red) upper surface with a dark subterminal band; the underside is typically lighter, appearing pale pinkish-orange.

Predominantly pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs; small plumulaceous section at the base for insulation.

Smooth and stiff surface with a slightly matte finish; designed for aerodynamic stability during flight and steering.

Uniform rufous coloration and a dark subterminal band near the tip. Size and rigidity are diagnostic for a large Buteo tail.

Extremely versatile; found in open woodlands, grasslands, agricultural fields, parks, and urban edges.

Widespread throughout North America, from central Alaska and Canada south to Panama and the West Indies.

Apex predator; controls rodent and small mammal populations. Highly adaptable and serves as an indicator of environmental health.

Ferruginous Hawk (typically has more white/paler tail) and Red-shouldered Hawk (more distinct narrow black-and-white banding).

The iconic scream of a Red-tailed Hawk is almost always used in movies and television to represent any eagle or hawk, regardless of the species actually shown.

Fair to Good; shows significant mechanical wear on the trailing edges and some separation of the barbs (splits), likely from ground abrasion or age.