American Crow (also known as the Common Crow)

This is a sleek, black tail feather from an American Crow. The American Crow is a large, intelligent, all-black passerine with a heavy bill and broad wings. In flight, they show a characteristic fan-shaped tail. They are highly social, often seen in large family groups or massive winter communal roosts.

Uniformly iridescent black with a subtle violet or greenish sheen when viewed in direct sunlight. The underside is a more matte grayish-black. Melanin-based coloration provides strength and resistance to wear.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane for structural integrity during flight. The base shows some plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation. Barbules are well-hooked, creating a cohesive surface.

Smooth, glossy, and somewhat stiff. The surface has a sleek, oily appearance that helps with water repellency. The vane feels rigid but flexible enough to withstand wind pressure.

Solid black coloration with iridescence, rounded tip, sturdy black rachis, and the specific size/curvature characteristic of a large corvid's tail.

Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, city parks, shorelines, and suburban yards. They avoid thick unbroken forests and prefer edge habitats.

Common year-round resident across most of North America from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Northernmost populations may migrate south during harsh winters.

Omnivorous scavengers and predators. They play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations, though they are also significant nest predators.

Common Raven (larger, more wedge-shaped tail feathers), Fish Crow (nearly identical, requires auditory or geographic ID), and Brewer's Blackbird (much smaller).

Crows are among the most intelligent animals on Earth, capable of using tools, recognizing individual human faces, and mourning their dead in 'crow funerals.'

Good condition. There is minor fraying at the tip and edges, likely from ground contact or preening. No significant fault bars or parasitic damage visible.