Canada Goose (alternate names: Wild Goose, Northern Canada Goose)

This is a primary flight feather from a Canada Goose, a large bird recognized by its black head and neck with a signature white 'chinstrap.' These birds have brown backs and tan breasts, with a wingspan that can reach up to 5.5 feet. They are famous for their V-formation flight patterns and loud 'honking' vocalizations.

Uniformly dark grayish-brown to charcoal on the dorsal surface, slightly paler or more silvery-gray on the ventral surface. There are no distinct bars or spots, characteristic of the monochromatic flight feathers of this species.

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs throughout most of the vane to provide a wind-resistant surface for flight. The base shows some plumulaceous (downy) barbs for insulation.

Stiff and relatively smooth surface. It has a slight waxy or oily feel, typical of waterfowl feathers that require water repellency. The vane is rigid enough to resist bending under air pressure.

Large size, asymmetrical vane shape, solid dusky-brown/gray coloration without banding, and a very strong, thick rachis typical of heavy-bodied waterfowl.

Extremely versatile: found in wetlands, lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, as well as anthropogenic environments like urban parks, golf courses, and agricultural fields.

Native to North America, breeding from the Arctic through the United States. Widely introduced and established in Europe, New Zealand, and parts of Asia.

Primary herbivore/grazer; they help cycle nutrients in wetlands but can become a nuisance in high densities. They are a prey source for large raptors and mammalian predators.

Mute Swan (larger, white), Great Blue Heron (blue-gray tint, different shaft color), or Snow Goose (white with black tips). The uniform brownish-gray and size distinguish it as a Canada Goose.

Canada Geese are known for their monogamous 'pair bonds' and can live for over 20 years. During their summer molt, they lose all their flight feathers at once and become flightless for about 40 days.

Fair to Good. There is significant 'zipping' loss (separation of barbs) along the trailing edge and some fraying at the tip, suggesting this was a molted feather that spent some time exposed to the elements.