Canada Goose

This is a robust wing feather from the iconic Canada Goose. The bird itself is large, characterized by a black head and long neck with a distinctive white 'chinstrap.' It has a brown back and tan breast. They are famous for their V-formation flight patterns and loud 'honking' calls.

Soild dark brownish-black to charcoal gray on the outer vane and upper tip, fading to a lighter grayish-white toward the base of the inner vane. The rachis is white to cream-colored.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on both the leading and trailing edges, creating a stiff, wind-resistant surface for flight. Low plumulaceous barbs near the base.

Stiff, smooth, and somewhat oily to the touch for water-repellency. The surface is matte with a slight waxy bloom.

Large size, chocolate-brown to black coloration, and a notably thick, white, translucent calamus (quill base).

Ubiquitous near bodies of water: lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, as well as urban parks, golf courses, and agricultural fields.

Widespread throughout North America from the Arctic to Mexico; introduced populations found in Europe, New Zealand, and South America. High-latitude populations are strongly migratory.

Predominantly grazers, they play a role in seed dispersal through their droppings but can also become an 'overabundant' species in urban areas affecting water quality.

Can be confused with feathers from the Snow Goose (which are white with black tips) or the Cackling Goose (which are identical but significantly smaller). Sandhill Crane feathers are more uniformly gray.

Canada Geese are known for their lifelong pair bonds. They are also famous for their 'V' flight formation, which allows the birds to reduce wind resistance and communicate effectively during long migrations.

Good condition. The barbs are mostly intact with minor fraying at the tip. The calamus is long and clean, suggesting it was molted naturally.