Canada Goose (alternate names: Wild Goose, Northern Goose)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Branta, Species: Branta canadensis · Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans) · Primary flight feather (remex), likely an outer primary such as P8 or P9
Species
Branta canadensis (High confidence: 100%)
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (remex), likely an outer primary such as P8 or P9
Family
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical with a very narrow leading vane (outer vane) and a broad trailing vane (inner vane). The tip is rounded and the overall profile is elongated and slightly curved.
Size
Approximately 10 to 12 inches (25-30 cm) in length. This is consistent with the primary flight feathers of an adult Canada Goose, which typically range from 9 to 14 inches depending on the specific position on the wing.
Rarity
Very Common. This is one of the most widespread and easily recognized large birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
The dorsal surface is a dark, matte brownish-black or charcoal grey, often referred to as 'sepia.' There is a subtle, lighter brown gradient toward the inner vane. The ventral surface is slightly paler with a silvery sheen. No banding or spots are present.
Barb Structure
The distal portion is strictly pennaceous (firm and interlocked) for aerodynamics, while the base (near the calamus) features soft, white plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation. Barbules are tightly hooked.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and stiff to the touch. The surface is somewhat oily and water-repellent, characteristic of waterfowl. The leading edge is extremely rigid, while the trailing edge is more flexible.
Description
This feather belongs to the iconic Canada Goose, a large waterbird with a distinctive black head and neck and a white 'chinstrap.' Geese are famous for their V-shaped flight formations and loud 'honking' calls. Their wings are powerful, allowing for long-distance migration, and their feathers are exceptionally durable.
Key Features
Distinguished by its large size, dark chocolate-brown to black coloration, extreme asymmetry of the vane, and the presence of white down transition at the base of a very thick calamus.
Habitat
Found in a variety of habitats near water, including lakes, ponds, bays, marshes, and fields. Frequently found in urban environments such as golf courses, parks, and suburban lawns (like the backyard in Ohio).
Geographic Range
Native to Arctic and temperate regions of North America; occasionally reaches northern Europe. In Ohio, they are year-round residents with migratory populations passing through from Canada in the fall and spring.
Condition Notes
The feather appears to be in Good to Excellent condition. It was likely naturally molted during the late summer post-breeding molt. There are no signs of fault bars or significant parasitic wear.
Interesting Facts
Canada Geese are known to mate for life. They are also famous for their migratory 'V' formation, which reduces wind resistance for the birds following the leader, allowing the flock to fly 70% further than a bird flying alone.
Ecological Role
They act as significant grazers of aquatic and terrestrial vegetation. They serve as prey for large predators (eggs and goslings) and their presence often indicates the health of local wetland ecosystems.
Similar Species
Similar to the feathers of the Tundra Swan (which are white) or the Wild Turkey (which usually feature distinct barring). It can be confused with a Black Vulture primary, but vulture feathers lack the waterfowl-specific oily texture and usually have a darker rachis.
Notes
backyard northeast ohio