American Crow
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies) · Flight feather (Secondary remex)
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Feather Type
Flight feather (Secondary remex)
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
Shape
Slightly asymmetrical vane with a rounded tip; the inner vane is broader than the outer vane, typical of secondary feathers.
Size
Approximately 5 inches (12.7 cm) in length. This is consistent with a mid-to-inner secondary feather of an American Crow, which typically range from 4 to 7 inches.
Rarity
Very Common. One of the most abundant and easily recognized birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Iridescent black with brownish-charcoal undertones. The brown tint suggests either a juvenile bird or sun-bleaching from an older, weathered feather. The ventral (underside) is more matte gray-black.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for flight efficiency, with a small plumulaceous (downy) section at the very base (calamus).
Texture & Surface
Smooth and slightly glossy on the dorsal surface with a subtle structural iridescence. The leading edge is stiff while the trailing edge is more flexible.
Description
This is a coal-black flight feather from an American Crow. The American Crow is a large, intelligent, all-black passerine with a heavy bill and a short, squared-off tail. They are known for their complex social structures and 'caw-caw' vocalizations. Adults have a glossier plumage, while younger birds (and worn feathers) appear more brownish-black.
Key Features
Solid black coloration with violet/blue iridescence, 5-inch length, rounded tip, and the characteristic sturdy corvid rachis.
Habitat
Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, orchards, urban parks, and suburban yards. They generally avoid dense uninterrupted forests.
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout North America, ranging from southern Canada through most of the continental United States to northern Mexico. Permanent resident in most of its range.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is visible fraying at the tip and some separation of the barbs (splits), likely due to natural wear and tear or 'molt' stress. The brownish tint indicates significant UV exposure or age.
Interesting Facts
Crows are famous for their intelligence; they can recognize individual human faces, use tools, and solve multi-step puzzles. They often gather in massive communal roosts in winter containing thousands of birds.
Ecological Role
Generalist omnivores and scavengers. They play a key role in waste removal and seed dispersal but can also impact the nests of smaller songbirds.
Similar Species
Common Raven (larger, more pointed feathers), Fish Crow (nearly identical, distinguished mostly by vocalization), and Brewer's Blackbird (much smaller feathers).
Notes
black with a hint of brown, relatively small, about 5 inches