Common Raven

This is a heavy-duty flight feather from the largest passerine in the world. The Raven is an all-black bird with a massive bill, shaggy throat feathers, and a wedge-shaped tail in flight. This feather reflects the bird's power and soaring capabilities.

Uniformly deep matte black to brownish-black. Lacks distinct banding; may show a slight oily iridescent sheen in direct sunlight. The underside is slightly paler/greyer.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the majority of the vane for aerodynamic flight, with a small plumulaceous section near the base (calamus).

Relatively stiff and smooth texture with a slight waxy or matte finish. The surface is designed to be weather-resistant and rugged.

Large size (over 25cm), solid jet-black coloration without spots, and significant vane asymmetry.

Found in a wide range of habitats including woodlands, coastal cliffs, mountains, and open countryside. In Suffolk, often associated with estuaries or large estates.

Widespread across the Northern Hemisphere (Holarctic). In the UK, they are expanding from western strongholds back into eastern counties like Suffolk.

Apex scavenger and occasional predator; they play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and are indicators of a healthy, complex ecosystem.

Carrion Crow (smaller, narrower feather), Rook (thinner rachis, different luster), or Buzzard (usually has banding/mottling).

Ravens are among the most intelligent animals, capable of problem-solving and mimicking human speech. They are often featured in mythology as messengers or symbols of wisdom.

Good condition; the tip shows minor wear and the calamus is intact, suggesting a natural molt. Slight brownish tint may indicate sun-bleaching or that it is an older feather from the previous year's molt.

Jimmys farm Suffolk