Likely Common Goldeneye (also called Goldeneye); identification is tentative from the image.

This fan of pale, dark-tipped feathers is consistent with a duck’s body plumage, possibly Common Goldeneye. The species is a compact diving duck; males have a dark green head and white cheek spot, while females have a brown head.

Creamy white feathers have dark brown to black rounded tips and mottled dark markings below them. Pattern resembles black-and-white duck plumage, but is not sufficient to confirm species or sex.

The vanes are closely interlocked and pennaceous, with fluffy down at the bases; no obvious damage is apparent.

Pale, slender rachises run through the vanes; pale barbs contrast with dark terminal patches and mottling.

The vanes appear smooth and compact, with soft, downy bases; surface sheen is subdued.

Likely body/flank plumage, based on the broad, rounded outline and soft basal portions rather than the narrow shape of flight feathers.

Rounded dark tips, pale vanes, and downy bases are the main visible traits; these are not uniquely diagnostic of goldeneye.

If Common Goldeneye, it frequents lakes and rivers, nesting in tree cavities near water and feeding by diving.

Common Goldeneyes breed across northern North America and Eurasia and winter on ice-free lakes and coastal waters, including the Great Lakes.

Goldeneyes are diving predators of aquatic invertebrates and small fish; their populations depend on healthy waters and suitable nesting cavities.

Bufflehead and other black-and-white ducks can have similarly patterned feathers; reliable separation usually requires a complete feather, measurements, and reference specimens.

Goldeneyes nest in cavities, including nest boxes, and can dive underwater to forage for aquatic invertebrates and fish.

Duck feathers have long been used in crafts and fly-tying; collection, possession, or sale of wild bird feathers may be regulated under U.S. law.

Photograph each feather beside a ruler and note its exact shape and both surfaces. At Lake Superior, compare with local duck reference collections rather than relying on color alone.

Appears intact and clean, with no clear fraying or breakage; condition grade: Good.

Found at Lake Superior, WI