Canada Goose

This is a robust, dark flight feather from a Canada Goose. These birds are large waterbirds with iconic black heads and necks, white 'chinstrap' patches, and brown bodies. They are known for their V-formation flight and loud 'honking' calls.

Dark brownish-black to charcoal gray on the dorsal surface; slightly paler on the ventral side. The rachis transitions from a translucent cream at the base to dark brown at the tip. No banding is present.

Highly pennaceous and tightly interlocked for aerodynamics; the base (calamus) features a plumulaceous downy section for insulation against water.

Stiff and smooth with a slight waxy/oily coating for water resistance. The surface has a matte to semi-glossy finish.

Large size, uniform dark charcoal-brown color, creamy white calamus/base, and a very sturdy, water-resistant structure.

Ubiquitous near water bodies including lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, grain fields, and urban parks.

Natural to North America; widespread across Canada and the United States. Many populations are residents in temperate zones, while others migrate from the Arctic.

Grazer and seed disperser. They serve as prey for large predators and their abundance makes them a key component of wetland nutrient cycles.

Black Vulture (grayer, different texture), Wild Turkey (usually barred or more bronze), and Mute Swan (pure white).

Canada Geese have between 20,000 and 25,000 feathers. They undergo a 'simultaneous wing molt' each summer, leaving them flightless for about a month while they grow new feathers like this one.

Good condition; slight mechanical wear (fraying) at the trailing edge near the base. Recent molt specimen.