Common Raven (Northern Raven)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus corax · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies) · Primary flight feather (Remiges); likely an outer primary such as P7 or P8.
Species
Corvus corax
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (Remiges); likely an outer primary such as P7 or P8.
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical with a narrow leading edge (outer vane) and a broad trailing edge (inner vane); the tip is somewhat pointed and shows slight emargination characteristic of wing-tip feathers used for soaring.
Size
Estimated between 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm) in length based on the surrounding pine needles and gravel; this size is consistent with the large wingspan of a Common Raven.
Rarity
Common in appropriate habitat, though less frequent in the southeastern United States compared to the American Crow.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly iridescent black with subtle blue, violet, or purple sheens visible under direct sunlight. The underside is a more matte greyish-black. No banding or spots are present, indicating a mature adult plumage.
Barb Structure
Densely packed and interlocked (pennaceous) for flight integrity, with a stiff structure. The barbs are currently showing significant wear, with some separation (unzipping) occurring along the trailing edge.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and glossy on the upper surface due to structural coloration; the leading edge is stiff and sharp, while the trailing edge is softer. The surface is oily and water-resistant.
Description
This is a large, powerful feather from the Common Raven, the world's largest passerine. The bird is entirely black, including the beak and legs, with a wedge-shaped tail and shaggy throat feathers called 'hackles'. They are masters of the air, capable of rolls, somersaults, and flying upside down.
Key Features
Large size (significantly larger than a crow's), deep black coloration with metallic iridescence, and a strong, dark, curved rachis.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in coniferous and deciduous forests, mountain ranges, coastal cliffs, tundra, and increasingly in urban or agricultural landscapes.
Geographic Range
Widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere (Holarctic); found throughout North America from the Arctic to Mexico, and across Eurasia and North Africa.
Condition Notes
Fair. The feather shows signs of environmental wear and 'unzipping' of the barbs. The distal end is frayed, suggesting it may have been molted naturally at the end of a season or worn down through use.
Interesting Facts
Ravens are among the most intelligent of all animals; they can solve multi-step puzzles, use tools, and can mimic human speech more clearly than some parrots.
Ecological Role
Apex scavenger and occasional predator; they play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and also help control small rodent populations.
Similar Species
American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) feathers are much smaller and less iridescent; Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) feathers have a distinct silver/grey underside and lack the raven's sheen.