Bald Eagle

A magnificent large brown body feather featuring a firm, glossy pennaceous upper section and a soft, fluffy white-to-gray basal plume characteristic of large raptors

Rich dark brown to chocolate-brown coloration with a subtle gradient, typical of immature plumage or dark body feathers of an adult Bald Eagle

Pennaceous at the upper distal portion with tightly interlocked barbicels, transitioning into plumulaceous (fluffy, downy) structure at the proximal base

Central rachis is robust, pale yellowish-white at the base transitioning to dark brown distally, with densely packed barbs extending outward at a moderate angle

Smooth and firm along the upper pennaceous vane, soft and silky at the fluffy base, with a matte finish

Body covert or breast feather, determined by the broad pennaceous tip transitioning to a fluffy downy base

Large size, robust pale rachis, rich brown coloration, and distinct transition from pennaceous vane to plumulaceous base

Found near large bodies of open water with old-growth trees for nesting, including lakes, reservoirs, rivers, coasts, and marshes

North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada down through the United States to northern Mexico

Apex avian predator playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy aquatic and riparian ecosystems

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) body feathers, though Golden Eagle feathers often show more distinct barring or golden hackles

Bald Eagles can dive at speeds of 75 to 99 miles per hour when pursuing prey, and their nests are the largest of any North American bird

Deeply sacred to many Indigenous North American peoples, symbolizing strength, courage, and a messenger to the creator

Look near large bodies of water, beneath known eagle roost trees, or along shorelines during molting season

Good condition with intact barbs and minimal wear, showing minor natural weathering at the tip