Red-tailed Hawk (Eastern or Western morph)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Buteo, Species: Buteo jamaicensis · Accipitridae (Hawks and Eagles) · Tail Feather (Rectrix)
Species
Buteo jamaicensis
Feather Type
Tail Feather (Rectrix)
Family
Accipitridae (Hawks and Eagles)
Shape
Asymmetrical vane; the outer vane is narrower than the inner vane. The tip is rounded and slightly worn; the overall outline is elongated and rectangular.
Size
Approximately 8 to 10 inches in length. This is consistent with an adult tail feather for a large Buteo hawk.
Rarity
Very Common. It is one of the most frequently seen raptors in North America.
Color & Pattern
Solid rufous or brick-red color on the upper surface with a faint terminal or subterminal dark band visible near the tip. The underside is a paler, more pinkish-buff. This coloration identifies the bird as an adult.
Barb Structure
Primarily pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs that create a continuous vane. The base shows some plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and relatively stiff to provide aerodynamic control during flight. The surface has a matte to slightly glossy finish with no oily residue.
Description
This feather is a classic adult tail feather from the Red-tailed Hawk. The bird itself is a large raptor with broad, rounded wings and a short, wide tail. Adults are characterized by the iconic cinnamon-red tail that gives them their name, while juveniles have brown, banded tails. They are often seen soaring in circles or perched on telephone poles.
Key Features
Distinctive solid rufous or cinnamon-red color, large size, stiff rachis, and the presence of a faint dark subterminal band.
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in open woodlands, grasslands, agricultural fields, broken forests, and urban areas near highways.
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout North America, ranging from central Alaska and Canada south through Mexico and Central America. Populations in the north are migratory.
Condition Notes
Good. There is some minor fraying at the tip and along the edges, likely due to naturally occurring wear or 'brooding' wear. The calamus is intact.
Interesting Facts
The piercing, rasping 'kree-eee-ar' scream of the Red-tailed Hawk is so iconic that it is almost always used in Hollywood movies to represent the sound of any eagle or hawk, regardless of the species on screen.
Ecological Role
Apex predator. They play a vital role in controlling rodent and rabbit populations. They are also indicators of environmental health.
Similar Species
Ferruginous Hawk (typically has whiter bases or more mottling), Red-shouldered Hawk (smaller, with distinct black and white bands).