American Crow (also likely Common Raven feather)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos · Corvidae (Crows and Jays) · Secondary Flight Feather (Remex)
Species
Corvus brachyrhynchos (90% confidence based on size/sheen)
Feather Type
Secondary Flight Feather (Remex)
Family
Corvidae (Crows and Jays)
Shape
Slightly asymmetrical vane with a broad, rounded tip and a gentle curvature characteristic of an inner wing feather.
Size
Approximately 6.5 to 7.5 inches in length. This falls perfectly within the average range for a secondary feather of an adult American Crow.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widespread and easily recognizable birds in North America.
Color & Pattern
Uniformly charcoal black to deep ebony. Shows a characteristic subtle iridescent greenish-blue or violet sheen when held to light. No banding or spots, which is diagnostic for the genus Corvus.
Barb Structure
Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs on the upper 80% to provide air resistance for flight, with loose, plumulaceous (downy) barbs at the base for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and somewhat stiff on the vane; the surface has a satin-to-glossy finish due to structural microscopic features that produce iridescence.
Description
This is a sturdy wing feather from an American Crow. Crows are large, intelligent, all-black birds with heavy bills. They are known for their social complexity and the classic 'caw-caw' vocalization. The feather itself reflects the bird's hardy nature—built for strong, flapping flight.
Key Features
Uniform black coloration, subtle iridescence, rounded tip, and lack of any light-colored patterns or 'comb' edges (unlike owls).
Habitat
Extremely versatile; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, urban parks, suburban yards, and shorelines.
Geographic Range
Common year-round resident throughout most of North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast and from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is slight separation of the barbs near the base (unzipping) and minor wear at the tip, suggesting it may have been molted naturally during the post-breeding season.
Interesting Facts
Crows are among the most intelligent animals on Earth, capable of using tools, recognizing individual human faces, and mourning their dead in 'funerals.'
Ecological Role
Omnivorous scavengers and predators; they play a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations, while also acting as an 'alarm system' for other wildlife.
Similar Species
Common Raven (feather would be significantly larger/longer), Fish Crow (nearly identical, usually requires chemical analysis or location context), and Brewer’s Blackbird (much smaller).