American Crow (Common Crow)
Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Passeriformes; Family: Corvidae; Genus: Corvus; Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies) · Secondary flight feather (remex), likely S2-S6 position
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos
Feather Type
Secondary flight feather (remex), likely S2-S6 position
Family
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
Shape
Broad, slightly asymmetrical vane with an obtuse, rounded tip and a slightly curved outline along the trailing edge.
Size
Estimated 14-18 cm (5.5-7 inches) in length, which is typical for secondary flight feathers of an adult American Crow.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widely recognized and frequently encountered birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly iridescent black/charcoal with a subtle violet-blue or greenish sheen visible under direct light (structural color). The ventral surface is more matte gray-black.
Barb Structure
Densely packed pennaceous barbs along most of the vane for aerodynamic stability; plumulaceous (downy) barbs present at the very base for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, firm, and slightly glossy on the dorsal side. The vane is somewhat stiff to withstand wind pressure but flexible enough for agile flight.
Description
A solid black feather from a Large, intelligent passerine. The American Crow is an all-black bird with a thick bill, broad wings, and a short, rounded tail. They have a distinctive 'caw-caw' vocalization and are often seen in social family groups.
Key Features
Uniform black coloration, iridescent sheen, rounded secondary tip, and a stout rachis that darkens distally.
Habitat
Extremely versatile: found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, city parks, shorelines, and suburban yards.
Geographic Range
Widespread across North America from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Permanent resident in most of its range, with northern populations migrating slightly south.
Condition Notes
Good condition; slight feather wear/fraying at the tip and trailing edge suggests it was molted naturally at the end of a breeding season.
Interesting Facts
Crows are known for their exceptional intelligence, capable of using tools, recognizing individual human faces, and mourning their dead in communal gatherings.
Ecological Role
Omnivorous scavenger and predator; they play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations, but can also impact other bird nests.
Similar Species
Common Raven (larger, more pointed feathers), Fish Crow (nearly identical, requires size/voice comparison), European Starling (much smaller, glossier with spots).