Red-tailed Hawk (also known as Chickenhawk or Buzzard-hawk)

This feather is a classic example of a 'barred' secondary from a Red-tailed Hawk. The bird itself is a large raptor with a wingspan of 4 feet, characterized by broad, rounded wings and its namesake cinnamon-red tail in adults. Their flight is steady with slow, deliberate wingbeats.

Dark brown/chocolate distal bands (bars) against a light grayish-white to pale buff background. The terminal band is the widest. The underside is notably paler with silver-white tones.

Pennaceous and tightly interlocked throughout most of the vane for aerodynamic efficiency; plumulaceous (downy) at the very base near the calamus.

The surface is stiff, smooth, and matte. It has a slightly waxy or oily feel which aids in water resistance and reduces friction during flight.

Distinctive dark brown banding on a pale ground color, thick white rachis, and the characteristic broad, rounded 'Buteo' shape.

Extremely versatile; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, prairies, deserts, and urban parks. Requires high perches for hunting.

Widespread across North America, from central Alaska and Canada south through Mexico and Central America to the West Indies.

Apex predator that controls rodent and rabbit populations. They are vital indicators of ecosystem health, particularly regarding the presence of heavy metals or pesticides in the food chain.

Red-shouldered Hawk (smaller, more frequent banding), Cooper's Hawk (narrower feather, different banding spacing), and Broad-winged Hawk (smaller size).

Red-tailed Hawks have keen eyesight that allows them to see a mouse from 100 feet in the air. Their iconic 'scree' call is almost always used in Hollywood movies to represent any hawk or eagle, including the Bald Eagle.

The feather appears to be in Good to Fair condition. There is noticeable 'unzipping' or separation of the barbs on the trailing edge, suggesting it may have been molted naturally after significant use.