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Bald Eagle (American Eagle)
Primary flight feather, likely P8 or P9

Bald Eagle (American Eagle)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Haliaeetus, Species: Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Family: Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)

Shape
Asymmetrical vane with a gently curved, tapered tip typical of a large soaring raptor's primary flight feather
Size
Approximately 12 to 14 inches long, robust and broad, consistent with adult Bald Eagle primaries which typically range from 10 to 16 inches
Rarity
Common in suitable wetland and coastal habitats following significant conservation recovery, though protected and strictly regulated
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Description

A magnificent large black flight feather from an adult Bald Eagle, featuring the unmistakable deep dark coloration of mature wing plumage, designed for powerful and majestic flight

Colour & Pattern

Solid, deep black or very dark brownish-black coloration throughout the visible vane portion, with no barring or mottling, indicating an adult contour/flight feather

Barb Structure

Strongly pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs and well-developed barbicels forming a firm, durable vane; no afterfeather

Texture & Surface

Stiff, smooth, and semi-glossy texture with high rigidity along the vane and a durable, waterproof surface designed for efficient soaring and diving

Key Features

Solid deep black/dark brown coloration, large robust size, strong asymmetrical shape, and thick rigid rachis characteristic of large raptor primaries

Habitat

Near large bodies of open water—such as lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and coastal areas—with an abundant food supply and old-growth trees for nesting and perching

Geographic Range

North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada through the contiguous United States down to northern Mexico

Ecological Role

Apex avian predator playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems by preying on fish, waterfowl, and scavenging carrion

Similar Species

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), which often has brownish or golden tones at the base, and large vultures like the Turkey Vulture which have different shaft structures

Interesting Facts

Bald Eagles can reach speeds of up to 100 mph during a diving swoop and build the largest tree nests recorded for any animal species, sometimes weighing over two tons

Condition Notes

Excellent condition with intact barbs, clean edges, and no visible fraying, fault bars, or sun bleaching