Canada Goose

This is a large, sturdy primary flight feather from a Canada Goose. The bird is known for its black head and neck with a white 'chinstrap.' These feathers are engineered for powerful, sustained flight during long migrations.

Uniform dark grayish-brown (sepia) on the dorsal surface with a slightly lighter, silvery-gray ventral surface. The rachis transitions from white at the base to dark brown/black toward the tip.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs for aerodynamic rigidity, with a downy plumulaceous section at the base (superior umbilicus) for insulation.

Smooth, stiff, and somewhat oily/waterproof. The surface has a slight matte-to-satin sheen typical of waterfowl plumage.

Large size, dark brown color without banding, extreme vane asymmetry, and a very thick, stiff rachis.

Found in a wide variety of habitats including lakes, ponds, bays, marshes, fields, and increasingly in urban parks and golf courses.

Native to North America; resides year-round in much of the U.S., with northern populations migrating to the Arctic to breed. Also introduced to Europe and New Zealand.

Primarily a herbivore that grazes on grasses and aquatic plants. They serve as an important prey species for large carnivores and help in nutrient cycling.

Similar to feathers of other large dark geese (like the Cackling Goose, which has smaller feathers) or a Wild Turkey (which usually has distinct barring).

Canada Geese fly in a V-formation to reduce wind resistance for birds behind the leader. They are known to stay with the same mate for life.

Good condition. There is minor fraying at the tip and some separation of the barbs ('zipper' effect), which is typical for a molted feather. No signs of parasites.