Canada Goose

A large, iconic waterbird with a long black neck, 'chinstrap' white cheek patches, and a brownish body. They are famous for their V-shaped flight formations and loud 'honking' calls during migration.

Uniformly dark fuscous-brown to charcoal black on the dorsal surface; the ventral (underside) surface is slightly paler with a silvery or greyish sheen. No banding or spots are present, which is typical for this species.

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane to provide an airtight surface for flight; plumulaceous (downy) barbs are present only at the very base (calamus area).

Stiff, smooth, and somewhat waxy. The surface is water-repellent (hydrophobic) due to preen oils, and the vane feels rigid and plastic-like to the touch.

Large size, deep charcoal-brown coloration, extreme asymmetry of the vanes, and a very sturdy, thick calamus (quill).

Extremely versatile; found in lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, grain fields, city parks, and golf courses near water sources.

Native to North America; widespread from the Arctic to the southern United States. Introduced and common in Europe, New Zealand, and parts of Asia.

Major herbivore and seed disperser; they serve as a prey species for large carnivores and can significantly impact local vegetation and water quality in high densities.

Tundra Swan feathers (larger, pure white), Wild Turkey feathers (shorter, barred with white), or Mute Swan feathers (larger, white). Black Vulture feathers are similar in color but usually have a different underside silvery pattern.

Canada Geese often mate for life and are highly protective parents. Some populations are migratory, traveling thousands of miles, while 'urban' populations have become year-round residents.

The feather appears to be in good condition with minor fraying at the base; the tip is intact, suggesting a relatively fresh molt or a feather protected from heavy abrasion.