Red-tailed Hawk (Imperfectly known as Chickenhawk or Buzzard)

This feather belongs to a large, broad-winged hawk known for its iconic cinnamon-red tail (in adults) and white 'V' marking on the back. This specific banded feather is typical of an immature bird or the secondary wing plumage of certain subspecies. Red-tails are masters of soaring, often seen circling in thermals with little wing flapping.

Classic juvenile or 'basic' pattern: A pale white-to-cream base with 6-8 distinct dark brown transverse bands. The tip features a broader dark terminal band. The underside is noticeably paler with more muted banding.

Densely pennaceous throughout the mid and upper vane for flight stability; plumulaceous (downy) at the base (superior umbilicus) for insulation. Hooklets are intact, providing a firm, cohesive vane.

Smooth and firm to the touch with a slightly matte finish. The surface is not as oily as waterfowl but has a natural waxy coating for weather resistance. The leading edge is stiff to cut through the air.

Distinctive dark brown banding on a cream background; broad, rounded shape; stiff white-based rachis; and the absence of the 'velvet' texture found in owls.

Extremely versatile; found in open woodlands, prairies, agricultural fields, deserts, and even urban parks where high perches are available.

Common throughout most of North America, from central Alaska and Canada south to Panama and the West Indies. Depending on the latitude, populations may be year-round residents or migratory.

Apex predator; plays a vital role in controlling rodent and rabbit populations. They are also sensitive to environmental toxins, making them important bioindicators for ecosystem health.

Red-shouldered Hawk (feathers are usually narrower with darker, more contrasting black-and-white bands) and Broad-winged Hawk (smaller with fewer, thicker bands).

The 'scream' of the Red-tailed Hawk is so iconic that it is almost always used in Hollywood movies to represent any eagle or hawk, regardless of the species actually shown on screen.

Excellent condition. The barbs are well-aligned, and there is minimal wear or 'fraying' at the tip, suggesting it was recently molted or dropped by a healthy bird.

Red tailed hawk