It’s National Bird Day — and We’re Celebrating with a Week All About Birds! 🐦
To kick off our Bird Theme Week, we’re spotlighting a bird that’s often misunderstood: the American Crow. While many people see crows as noisy pests or bad omens, these birds are actually some of the most intelligent and fascinating animals you’ll ever encounter.
Meet the Crow Family
Crows belong to the genus Corvus, a group that includes more than 40 species worldwide. This genus also contains ravens and jays and can be found on every continent except South America and Antarctica, plus several Pacific islands.
In the United States, the two most widespread corvids are the American crow and the common raven. Although they’re often confused, there are some key differences:
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Size: Ravens are much larger—closer in size to hawks.
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Social habits: Crows usually travel in large flocks, while ravens are more often seen in pairs.
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Appearance & sound: They have different tail feather shapes and distinct calls.
Why Is a Group of Crows Called a “Murder”?
You’ve probably heard the phrase “a murder of crows.” This dramatic name comes from old folklore and superstitions. Historically, crows were associated with death, battlefields, and cemeteries. Their black feathers, scavenging habits, and sharp intelligence only added to their spooky reputation.
That said, scientists usually stick to simpler terms like “flock” or “mob.”
Surprisingly Strong Family Values
Crows are incredibly social and family-oriented. American crows typically mate for life and spend most of the year living as pairs. Over time, these pairs form extended family groups that can include up to 15 individuals from several breeding seasons.
Young crows often stick around to help raise their younger siblings, and they don’t usually breed until they’re at least two years old—many wait four to five years. During the nonbreeding season, especially in winter, crows gather in massive communal roosts that can number from 200 to tens of thousands of birds. Some of these roosts have existed in the same areas for over a century!
Genius Birds with a Playful Side
Crows are considered among the smartest animals in the world, with intelligence comparable to chimpanzees. They’re curious, clever, and excellent problem-solvers.
Some incredible examples of crow intelligence include:
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Creative food theft, like distracting an otter while others steal its fish
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Tool use and modification
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Play behavior, such as “snowboarding” down rooftops on pieces of bark
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Gift-giving, where crows leave small objects for humans they seem to like
Don’t Cross a Crow — They Remember
Crows are also known for their long memories—especially when it comes to grudges. In a famous University of Washington study, researchers captured crows while wearing a caveman mask. Even 10 years later, crows that had never been captured themselves still recognized the mask and loudly scolded the wearer.
They don’t just remember individually—they pass that information along.
Crow Funerals: Learning From Loss
Recent research shows that crows even appear to hold “funerals” or “wakes.” When a crow finds another dead crow, it calls out, drawing others to the scene. The group then gathers and makes a loud commotion.
Scientists believe this behavior helps crows learn about danger, teaching the group which places or threats to avoid in the future.
A Bird Worth Respecting
So while the American crow may not always be quiet or welcome, it’s undeniably intelligent, social, and complex. As we celebrate National Bird Day and our Bird Theme Week, the crow reminds us that even the most overlooked animals can be full of surprises.
Stay tuned as we continue exploring the amazing world of birds all week long! 🪶