Crows, Ravens and Rooks

Corvids (not covid—notice the “r) are birds in the crow family. There are over 120 species in this family that includes crows, ravens, rooks, jackdaws, jays, magpies, and others. Corvids are remarkably intelligent and even play games and remember human faces. They have also been known to bring shiny gifts to people in exchange for food. They are found everywhere in the world except for the very bottom of South America and the polar ice caps.

We have many corvids around my house in Southern California, mostly crows and ravens. I find both of them fascinating. But sometimes I wonder which bird I’m looking at. How are crows different from ravens?

To start with, ravens are larger than crows. Their bills are thicker and their legs stronger. They have longer wings and can soar for a long time, unlike crows. Usually ravens hang out with only one other raven and rarely with more than 100. A group of ravens is called a “conspiracy.” Ravens have deep, hoarse caws.

Crows are smaller than ravens. Their bills and necks are shorter than a raven’s. Their wings are shorter and rounder. Crows can sometimes flock together with more than 1,000 individuals. A group of crows is called a “murder,” and this term probably came from superstition or folktales. Their call is higher pitched than a raven’s.

When trying to figure out what kind of shiny, black bird you are looking at, compare and contrast them:
How are they alike? Both are black, smart, widespread, playful, and clever.

How are they different? Ravens are larger, less social, bigger-billed, strut and hopping, soaring birds. Crows are smaller, smaller-billed, very social walkers.

Happy birding!