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American Crow
Primary flight feather, outer primary (p8-p10)

American Crow

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: C. brachyrhynchos

Family: Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)

Shape
Asymmetrical vane with a gently curved, rounded tip and a slightly notched outer web, typical of a flight feather adapted for soaring and active flapping flight.
Size
Approximately 7 to 9 inches long, consistent with a medium-sized corvid primary flight feather. Primaries for adult American Crows typically range from 6 to 10 inches depending on the specific position.
Rarity
Very Common
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Description

The American Crow is a familiar, intelligent, and highly social black bird known for its distinctive caw and complex problem-solving abilities. Completely black from head to tail with a powerful bill, it possesses a sturdy build and is frequently seen in flocks. This primary feather showcases the deep, lustrous black pigmentation characteristic of the species.

Colour & Pattern

Uniform glossy black with subtle iridescent highlights of blue and purple under direct sunlight. The lower section of the prominent rachis transitions to a clean white or pale silvery hue near the base where it enters the skin.

Barb Structure

Strongly pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs and functional barbicels forming a cohesive, smooth vane. The structure is durable with no significant fraying.

Texture & Surface

Smooth, firm, and glossy with a noticeable sheen. The surface is sleek and water-resistant, lacking any powdery bloom.

Key Features

Uniform glossy black coloration with iridescent blue-purple sheen, stark white or pale base on the lower rachis, and strong asymmetrical flight feather shape.

Habitat

Extremely adaptable, found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, pastures, orchards, city parks, suburban neighborhoods, and coastal regions.

Geographic Range

Year-round resident across most of North America, spanning from southern Canada down through the continental United States to northern Mexico.

Ecological Role

Acts as an important generalist predator and scavenger, helping to control insect populations and clean up carrion while aiding in seed dispersal.

Similar Species

Common Raven (Corvus corax), Fish Crow (Corvus ossifragus). Distinguishing features include smaller overall size and finer rachis compared to the raven, and differing geographic overlap with fish crows.

Interesting Facts

American Crows are known to recognize individual human faces, hold grudges, pass knowledge down to younger generations, and use tools in controlled environments.

Condition Notes

Excellent condition with intact barbs, strong rachis, and no visible signs of fading, wear, or parasite damage.