Likely Red-tailed Hawk (also Redtail); identification is tentative from this single feather.

The image shows a pale, barred raptor feather held against a sunlit landscape. A Red-tailed Hawk is a large, broad-winged North American buteo, recognized in adults by a warm reddish tail; this feather alone cannot establish that identity.

Cream to pale buff with irregular dark-brown crossbars and a dark shaft. This pattern occurs in several hawks and owls and is not species-specific.

Pennaceous vanes with interlocking barbs; loose, wispy material near the base and tip appears worn or separated.

A straight, dark-brown rachis divides the feather; barbs form alternating pale and dark bands across the vanes.

Matte, soft-looking vane with some fraying and loose barbs; no obvious gloss or specialized owl-like fringe is visible.

Possibly from the tail, based on its elongated, fairly even outline; position cannot be confirmed from the photograph.

The cream ground color, dark transverse bars, and sturdy central shaft suggest a medium-to-large bird of prey, but do not uniquely identify a species.

If from a Red-tailed Hawk, likely open country, woodland edges, farmland, and roadsides, often using trees or poles as hunting perches.

Red-tailed Hawks occur widely across North America, with many populations resident and northern birds moving south seasonally.

Red-tailed Hawks are important predators of rodents and other small animals. The species is widespread and generally stable, though habitat changes and human impacts can affect local populations.

Barred feathers of other buteos, accipiters, and owls may look similar. Species-level identification usually requires exact measurements, feather position, and comparison with reference specimens.

Red-tailed Hawks often soar on broad wings and use keen eyesight to hunt rodents and other small prey; their raspy call is frequently used in films as a generic eagle cry.

Hawk feathers have cultural significance for some Indigenous peoples. Possession and trade of feathers from native North American birds are regulated; do not collect or keep this specimen without checking local law.

Photograph both sides beside a ruler and record the find location. Compare bar spacing, vane asymmetry, and size with regional feather guides; avoid collecting protected feathers.

Visible barbs are separated at the tip and base; overall condition appears fair, with no clear evidence of active growth or oil contamination.