Great Blue Heron
Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Pelecaniformes; Family: Ardeidae; Genus: Ardea; Species: Ardea herodias · Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns) · Flight feather (Secondary remex)
Species
Ardea herodias
Feather Type
Flight feather (Secondary remex)
Family
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
Shape
Asymmetrical vane typical of flight feathers, featuring a rounded to slightly blunted tip and a gently curving rachis.
Size
Approximately 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) in length, consistent with the secondary feathers of a large Ardeid.
Rarity
Common; one of the most widespread and easily spotted large wading birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniform slate-gray to bluish-gray on the dorsal surface, transitioning to a slightly lighter silvery-gray on the ventral side. The base near the calamus is white/translucent.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the majority of the vane; plumulaceous (downy) barbs present at the very base (calamus area).
Texture & Surface
Smooth, matte finish with a stiff, somewhat brittle texture compared to raptors. High water-resistance due to powder down application.
Description
This is a primary-toned slate-gray flight feather from a Great Blue Heron, a majestic wading bird known for its long legs, S-curved neck, and 6-foot wingspan. These birds are master fishers, standing motionless for long periods before striking.
Key Features
Distinctive 'heron blue' slate-gray color, thick pale rachis, rounded tip, and the absence of any banding or spotting.
Habitat
Freshwater and saltwater wetlands, lakes, marshes, and riverbanks. Found frequently at Eagle Mountain Lake, Texas.
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout North and Central America; residents in Texas are joined by migratory populations from the north during winter.
Condition Notes
Good condition; slight mechanical wear (fraying) on the trailing edge of the vane, suggesting it was naturally molted after a season of use.
Interesting Facts
Herons have 'powder down'—specialized feathers that crumble into a fine powder, which the bird applies to its plumage to help clean off fish slime and oils.
Ecological Role
Apex predator in wetland ecosystems, controlling populations of fish, amphibians, and even small mammals. Highly sensitive to water quality.
Similar Species
Sandhill Crane (more brownish-gray, different rachis texture), Black-crowned Night-Heron (smaller, different gray tone).
Notes
Eagle mountain lake Texas