Likely Red-tailed Hawk (also known as the chickenhawk); identification is tentative from a single feather.

This is a long, barred raptor feather with a pale base and dark tip. A Red-tailed Hawk is a large, broad-winged soaring hawk, but this feather alone does not securely identify the bird.

Dark brown to nearly black toward the tip, with broad dark and pale cream-white bars below. This is not the characteristic red tail pattern, so the species identification remains uncertain.

The vanes appear tightly joined and pennaceous; individual barbules cannot be resolved in the image.

A pale, slender rachis is visible near the base; dark bars cross the pale vane, whose barbs form a smooth, compact surface.

Appears smooth and matte, with a firm-looking vane and no obvious iridescence.

Probably from the wing, based on its elongated shape and contrasting bars; the image does not establish primary versus secondary.

Notable features are the pale shaft, alternating pale and dark bars, and dark terminal area. These patterns occur in several raptors and are not diagnostic of Red-tailed Hawk.

If from a Red-tailed Hawk, likely source habitats include open country, woodland edges, farmland, and urban perches.

Red-tailed Hawks occur broadly across North America and parts of Central America and the Caribbean; many are resident, while northern birds may migrate.

Red-tailed Hawks are predators of rodents and other small animals and can help reflect ecosystem health. The species is widespread, though local populations depend on suitable habitat and prey.

Barred feathers from other hawks, including Red-shouldered and Broad-winged Hawks, may look similar. Feather position, exact dimensions, and the pattern across the full vane are needed to distinguish them reliably.

Red-tailed Hawks often soar on broad wings and use conspicuous high perches to scan for prey. Their piercing descending call is widely used in films as a generic eagle or hawk sound.

Raptor feathers have cultural significance for some Indigenous peoples, and possession or trade may be legally restricted. In the United States, most native wild-bird feathers are protected; do not collect or trade without checking local laws.

Photograph both sides beside a ruler and record where it was found; compare with regional feather guides or an expert collection. Avoid collecting feathers where wildlife laws prohibit it.

The feather appears mostly intact, with no clear breaks or severe fraying; condition grade: good. Fine wear and age are difficult to assess from the photo.