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Did you know that crows can be found all over North America?
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of crows that can be found on our continent. We’ll also discuss some of the unique behaviors and physical features that set these birds apart from each other.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
What is a Crow?
The crow is a large bird of the Corvidae family, which also includes ravens, rooks, and jays. Crows are one of the most intelligent bird species and are known for their ability to solve complex problems.
In addition, crows have excellent memory and can remember human faces. Although they are commonly associated with darkness and death, crows are actually quite sociable birds. They live in large flocks and often form bonds with other members of their group. Caws, or crowing, are one way that crows communicate with each other.
Crows are found on every continent except Antarctica, and they have been featured in stories and folklore from around the world. Whether you view them as spooky omens or clever tricksters, there’s no denying that crows are fascinating creatures.
Types of Crows in North America
American Crow
The American Crow is a beautiful bird with iridescent black plumage. The legs, feet, and bill are all black as well, giving it a uniform look. It is shorter than the Common Raven, averaging 18 inches (46 cm) in length.
The lifespan of an American Crow is 7 to 8 years. Captive birds have been known to live for up to 30 years. The American Crow can be found in the US, southern Canada, and northern Mexico. Its diet is varied and opportunistic – it will eat anything it can get its hands on! – which makes it a successful and adaptable bird species.
The American Crow is not a picky eater. It will consume just about anything, from invertebrates to human food scraps. This scavenger is also known to prey on small animals, such as mice and frogs. In the winter and autumn months, when food is scarce, the American Crow relies heavily on nuts and acorns.
Occasionally, this opportunistic bird will visit a bird feeder in search of a quick meal. Elsewhere, the American Crow can often be found rummaging through garbage dumps. Not only does this create a mess, but it also attracts other unwanted pests.
Agricultural crops, such as corn and wheat, are also popular foods for the American Crow. Unfortunately, these habits have earned the bird a bad reputation over the years.
American Crows are known for their intelligence and resourcefulness, but they are also highly social creatures. They form long-lasting bonds with their mates, and their families can include up to 15 individuals.
Offspring from previous nesting seasons will often stay with the family to help raise new nestlings. American Crows do not reach breeding age for at least two years, and most will not leave the nest for four or five years.
They build bulky stick nests in trees, bushes, and on rare occasions, on the ground. While they will nest in a variety of trees, oaks are the most commonly used. Regardless of where they build their nests.
Fish Crow
The Fish Crow is a species of bird that is found along the eastern seaboard of the United States. This bird is smaller than the American Crow, and it has silkier plumage. The Fish Crow is found in coastal marshes, beaches, rivers, inland lakes, and river banks.
This bird follows many river systems inland for a long distance. The Fish Crow is a blackbird with lustrous purple-black plumage. This bird has a black bill and black legs. The Fish Crow is a noisy bird, and it often gives a harsh “caw” sound.
The Fish Crow feeds on fish, crustaceans, mollusks, insects, rodents, carrion, eggs, and garbage. This bird is a scavenger and will often follow fishing boats to get scraps of food. The Fish Crow nests in trees, shrubs, and buildings. This bird typically lays 3-5 eggs per clutch. The Fish Crow is not considered to be threatened or endangered at this time.
Northwestern Crow
The Northwestern Crow is a small but mighty bird that is often mistaken for its more western cousin, the American Crow. But don’t let its size fool you – this little guy is feisty and knows how to hold its own.
The Northwestern Crow is slightly smaller than the American Crow, measuring 33-41 cm in length. It also has smaller feet and a more slender bill. But the most notable difference between these two birds is their calls.
The Northwestern Crow’s call is noticeably different from the American Crow’s and serves as an easy way to identify it.
As its name implies, the Northwestern Crow ranges from the northwestern coastal regions and offshore islands of southern Alaska down through British Columbia and Washington state. The primary foraging areas for this North American species are beaches and shorelines.
The Northwestern Crow has a wide range of dietary preferences. While it does enjoy eating fish, shellfish, and crabs, it is just as happy rummaging through garbage cans for suitable food items.
In fact, it has been observed flying with mussels and dropping them onto hard surfaces to break them open. In addition to its love of seafood, the Northwestern Crow also enjoys consuming insects, other invertebrates, and various fruits on a regular basis (especially berries).
And if that wasn’t enough, it also feeds on eggs and hatchlings from other birds’ nests! However, the Northwestern Crow is not averse to accepting handouts from humans.
The Northwestern Crow is a rather interesting bird. It is usually solitary, but sometimes it will build small, loose colonies with a few other individuals in trees or large bushes.
It is also rather unique in that it will nest on cliffs in a recess or even on the ground in a remote area if it is overhung by a rock for protection. The average Northwestern Crow nest contains 4-5 eggs.
Summary
Crows are a common sight in North America, but there are three types that you’re most likely to see. The American crow, the Northwestern crow, and the Fish crow. All three of these crows have different features and habits that set them apart from one another.
So if you’re ever lucky enough to spot one of these birds, take a closer look and see which type you’ve found!
Correct.