Canada Goose

A large, heavy-bodied waterfowl with a long black neck and distinctive white 'chinstrap'. This feather is a deep, dark brown tail feather used for steering and braking. The bird itself is known for its 'honking' call and iconic V-formation flight patterns during migration.

Solid charcoal-brown to near-black on the upper surface; the underside is slightly paler and more matte. No banding or spots are present. The rachis is dark in the vane but transitions to a translucent, pale tan at the calamus.

Highly pennaceous and tightly interlocked for wind resistance, with a small plumulaceous (downy) section at the base near the calamus.

Smooth, stiff, and somewhat oily to the touch for water repellency. The surface has a slight matte-to-satin sheen.

Dark uniform coloration, large size, extreme stiffness, rounded tip, and symmetrical vanes.

Ubiquitous across North America near bodies of water: lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, as well as grain fields, city parks, and golf courses.

Native to North America, breeding from the Arctic to the southern US; widely introduced to Europe, New Zealand, and South America.

Herbivore that keeps aquatic vegetation in check; serves as a food source for large predators and helps in nutrient cycling.

Wild Turkey (larger, usually barred), Golden Eagle (much larger, different texture), Black Swan (if in Australia/Europe, though Black Swan feathers are often curlier).

Canada Geese often mate for life and are highly protective of their nests; they have been known to 'commute' daily between feeding grounds and safe water roosts.

Good condition, though some minor fraying is visible on the distal edges. Some fluffy down at the base appears slightly matted with debris.