Feather Identifier app iconFeather Identifier
Uncertain; likely a large raptor, possibly a turkey vulture or a large hawk. The feather alone does not support a reliable species identification.
Likely a wing flight feather (remex), but exact position is unclear.

Uncertain; likely a large raptor, possibly a turkey vulture or a large hawk. The feather alone does not support a reliable species identification.

Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: undetermined; Family: undetermined; Genus: undetermined; Species: undetermined.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Family: Undetermined; a large bird feather, possibly from a raptor.

Shape
Long and narrow with an asymmetrical vane and a tapered, worn or broken tip; the vanes appear damaged and separated.
Size
Appears roughly hand-length or longer, but no scale is available for a reliable measurement or species comparison.
Learn more about Uncertain; likely a large raptor, possibly a turkey vulture or a large hawk. The feather alone does not support a reliable species identification. in the encyclopedia →

Found a feather like this?

Identify any feather from a photo, free.

Identify a feather

Description

The image shows a long, dark flight-feather-like specimen held by its pale shaft. Its shape suggests a sizable bird, but the visible traits are insufficient to identify the bird, its behavior, or vocalizations responsibly.

Colour & Pattern

Mostly dark brown to gray-brown, with a pale yellowish rachis. No clearly diagnostic barring or markings are visible; wear, lighting, and the feather's underside may affect the apparent color.

Barb Structure

Pennaceous vane with interlocking barbs, but extensive fraying and gaps obscure the original structure; no clear aftershaft is visible.

Rachis & Barb Pattern

Long, pale, fairly robust rachis; the barbs form a broad dark vane on one side and a narrower vane on the other, with numerous damaged or missing sections.

Texture & Surface

Appears dry and matte, with a stiff shaft and visibly ragged, separated barbs; no obvious iridescence or powdery coating.

Feather Placement

Probably a wing feather: its elongated, asymmetrical shape and stiff shaft are consistent with a remex, though exact placement cannot be determined.

Key Features

Notable features are the pale rachis, dark brown vane, asymmetrical outline, and substantial fraying. These are not unique enough to identify a species.

Habitat

Cannot be assigned without a reliable species identification.

Geographic Range

Cannot be assigned without a reliable species identification.

Ecological Role

The source species and its ecological role cannot be determined from this damaged feather. Avoid collecting or possessing wild-bird feathers where prohibited.

Similar Species

Large hawk, eagle, vulture, turkey, and other sizeable bird flight feathers can look similar when worn; reliable separation usually requires intact patterning, measurements, and locality.

Interesting Facts

Flight feathers combine a strong central shaft with interlocking barbs, creating a lightweight surface capable of resisting airflow.

Cultural Significance

Feathers have been used historically for adornment, writing, fishing flies, and fletching. Identification and local wildlife laws matter: many native bird feathers are protected from possession or trade.

Field Identification Tips

Record the exact length, photograph both sides against a scale, and note where it was found. Compare intact vane patterns with a regional feather guide; do not rely on color alone.

Condition Notes

Fair to poor: the vane is heavily split and ragged, and the tip appears worn or damaged; no clear fault bars, parasites, or oil staining can be confirmed.