Feather Identifier app iconFeather Identifier
Likely Common Raven (also called Northern Raven); identification is uncertain from this single dark feather.
Likely a flight feather, possibly a secondary; exact wing position cannot be determined from the image.

Likely Common Raven (also called Northern Raven); identification is uncertain from this single dark feather.

Kingdom Animalia; Phylum Chordata; Class Aves; Order Passeriformes; Family Corvidae; Genus Corvus; Species Corvus corax (tentative).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Family: Corvidae (crows, ravens, and jays).

Shape
Long and narrow with an asymmetric vane and a rounded, slightly worn-looking tip.
Size
Appears roughly 20–25 cm long, judging by the floorboards; no reliable scale is provided, so measurements are approximate.
Learn more about Likely Common Raven (also called Northern Raven); identification is uncertain from this single dark feather. in the encyclopedia →

Found a feather like this?

Identify any feather from a photo, free.

Identify a feather

Description

A large, uniformly dark feather with a conspicuous pale shaft. Common Ravens are large, intelligent corvids with shaggy throat feathers, a deep croaking call, and strong, soaring flight; the feather alone cannot confirm the species.

Colour & Pattern

Predominantly black to charcoal, with subtle sheen and no clear bands or spots. The pale central shaft contrasts strongly with the dark vane.

Barb Structure

Vane is closely knit and pennaceous, with no obvious fluffy down or specialized comb-like edge; fine barb condition is not resolvable.

Rachis & Barb Pattern

Straight, pale rachis, relatively robust toward the base and tapering toward the tip; dark barbs form a dense, even vane.

Texture & Surface

Appears smooth and firm, with a mild gloss; the image does not establish tactile or waterproof qualities.

Feather Placement

Probably from the wing, based on its elongated shape and asymmetric vanes; tail feathers are a possible alternative.

Key Features

Dark unbarred vane, pale rachis, and long asymmetric outline; these traits fit a large corvid but are not species-diagnostic.

Habitat

If raven, it occupies varied habitats including forests, mountains, tundra, coastlines, and human-modified landscapes, nesting on cliffs or in trees.

Geographic Range

Common Ravens occur across much of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and parts of Asia; many populations are resident, with some local movements.

Ecological Role

Ravens are adaptable omnivores and scavengers, acting as predators, consumers, and carrion removers. Common Ravens are broadly secure overall, though local populations may face habitat or human-related pressures.

Similar Species

American Crow and other large corvid feathers can look similar; size, feather position, and subtle gloss are insufficient here to separate them confidently.

Interesting Facts

Ravens are renowned for problem-solving, vocal learning, and complex social behavior; they also use soaring flight and opportunistically exploit many food sources.

Cultural Significance

Raven imagery is prominent in many traditions and stories. Feathers may be used in art or craft, but possession and trade can be regulated; identify the species and check local wildlife laws before keeping or using wild feathers.

Field Identification Tips

Compare with a known feather of measured length and inspect the entire vane in natural light; location and nearby roosts can help, but do not rely on color alone. Follow local rules for collecting feathers.

Condition Notes

Appears largely intact, though the tip and edges may show minor wear. No clear fault bars, staining, or parasite damage is visible; condition: Good.