Canada Goose

This is a classic secondary flight feather from a Canada Goose. The goose itself is a large waterbird with a distinctive black head and neck, white 'chinstrap' cheek patch, and brownish-gray body. Their wingspan can reach up to 5.5 feet. They are famous for their V-formation flight patterns and loud 'honking' vocalizations.

Solid dark brown to charcoal gray on the dorsal surface, with a slightly paler, more silvery-gray ventral surface. The base of the vane fades into a lighter, grayish-white where it meets the downy section.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on most of the vane for aerodynamic integrity, transitioning to plumulaceous (downy) barbs at the very base near the calamus.

Smooth, stiff, and somewhat oily to the touch for water repellency. The surface has a matte to low-gloss finish, designed for durability and flight efficiency.

Dark chocolate-brown coloration, thick white rachis, asymmetrical vanes, and the presence of a downy base typical of waterfowl.

Extremely versatile; found in lakes, ponds, bays, marshes, grain fields, and frequently in urban parks, golf courses, and suburban lawns near water.

Native to North America, breeding across Canada and the northern US; found year-round in much of the US and migrating as far south as Mexico. Also widely introduced in Europe and New Zealand.

Primarily herbivores that graze on grasses and grains; they act as seed dispersers and provide a prey base for large predators like coyotes and eagles. Their presence in high densities can significantly impact local water quality.

Could be confused with feathers from a Wild Turkey (which usually has banding) or a Mute Swan (which is white). Very similar to other black-necked geese like the Cackling Goose, though those feathers are generally smaller.

Canada Geese are known for their strong pair bonds, often mating for life. Some migratory populations can fly up to 1,500 miles in a single day under favorable weather conditions.

Fair to Good. The feather shows significant edge wear and 'zipper' separation of the barbs (the v-shaped gaps), likely indicating it was molted at the end of a season or suffered environmental wear.