Species · GBIF taxon 9409796
Carrion Crow
Corvus coroneAlso known as Black Crow, Common Crow
Carrion crows are remarkably intelligent, adaptable songbirds that form lifelong breeding pairs and defend permanent territories. They solve complex multi-step puzzles, recognize individual human faces, and use a harsh, repeated call to communicate with family members. While often seen foraging alone or in pairs, they gather in large, noisy communal roosts during the winter months.
IntelligentAdaptableUrban
Licensed referenceAlexis Lours / CC BY 4.0 · cc-by
- diet
- Omnivorous (carrion, insects, seeds, small vertebrates, and human food scraps)
- family
- Corvidae
- threats
- Persecution by farmers, secondary poisoning, and habitat loss
- life Span
- 7 to 12 years in the wild
LC
Capable of delivering a sharp peck if cornered or handled; observe from a respectful distance.
- Distinguish from Rooks: Look for the carrion crow's fully feathered face and heavier, slightly curved black bill.
- Watch for tool use: Observe them dropping hard-shelled nuts onto roads for cars to crack open.
- Listen to calls: Note the distinct, resonant three-syllable call delivered with a bowing motion.