Canada Goose
Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Anseriformes; Family: Anatidae; Genus: Branta; Species: Branta canadensis · Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans) · Contour feather (Body feather)
Species
Branta canadensis
Feather Type
Contour feather (Body feather)
Family
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
Shape
Slightly asymmetrical with a rounded, blunt tip; broad and elongated with a gentle curve.
Size
Approximately 3 to 5 inches in length; width is roughly 1 inch at the widest point. Typical for a body contour feather from a large waterfowl.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widespread and easily recognized waterfowl in the Northern Hemisphere.
Color & Pattern
Distinctly bi-colored. The base and lower portion are creamy white to light tan, transitioning abruptly into a dark sepia or charcoal brown at the tip. The rachis is light-colored/yellowish.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous at the distal end (interlocked, flat) and plumulaceous (fluffy, downy) at the proximal base near the calamus.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and slightly oily (water-repellent) on the dark pennaceous tip; very soft, silky, and insulating on the white plumulaceous base.
Description
This is a classic contour feather from a Canada Goose. The bird itself is large with a black head and neck, a white 'chinstrap', and a brownish-grey body. They are famous for their V-formation flight and loud honking.
Key Features
Broad rounded tip, stark contrast between the white downy base and dark brown tip, and a relatively stiff, light-colored rachis.
Habitat
Found in varied environments near water including lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, and urban areas like parks and golf courses.
Geographic Range
Vast range across North America; breeding in Canada and the northern US, wintering throughout the US and Mexico. Introduced populations in Europe and New Zealand.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is some separation of the barbs (zipper effect broken) on the right side of the vane, likely due to naturally falling out or wind wear.
Interesting Facts
Canada Geese are known for their strong mate bonds, often staying together for life. They are also highly adaptable to human-altered landscapes.
Ecological Role
Grazer and seed disperser. They play a significant role in nutrient cycling in wetlands but can become a nuisance in overpopulated urban areas.
Similar Species
Mallard (feathers are usually smaller/differently colored), Cackling Goose (almost identical but smaller), or other large waterfowl like Mute Swans (which lack the dark brown tips).