Crow
Corvus
Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.
Crows are adaptable members of the crow family. This account describes the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), a social black bird that thrives around open ground and nearby trees.
Representative species: Corvus brachyrhynchos.
At a glance
- Location
- Canada and the contiguous United States.
- Habitat
- Grassland, Temperate forest, Towns and cities, Coast
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Food
- Insects, fruit, nuts, small animals and carrion.
Classification
- Common name
- Crow
- Browse group
- Birds
- Scientific name or taxon
- Corvus
- Source classification
- Aves
Three things to know
- Older offspring can help raise younger siblings.
- Winter roosts can contain very large flocks.
- Food is sometimes hidden for later use.
Habitat and range
American crows use farmland, grassland, woodland edges, parks and neighbourhoods across much of North America. Trees provide breeding and roosting sites near open feeding areas.
Appearance and adaptations
Adults have black plumage with a gloss in good light, a dark bill and strong feet. They are smaller than common ravens and differ in voice and tail shape.
Diet and behaviour
An opportunistic diet includes insects, grain, fruit, eggs, small animals and carrion. Birds often forage on foot and cache food. Family members may cooperate in defending territory and caring for young, while winter brings large communal roosts.
Sources
- Animal Diversity Web: Corvus brachyrhynchos
- A–Z Animals: Crow · Directory entry
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American crow
Corvus brachyrhynchos
The American crow is a large all-black bird of farms, woods and city streets across North America.
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