American Crow

American Crow

  • Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos
  • Type: Bird
  • Typical Size: 16-20 in / 33-39 in wingspan
  • Plumage Colors: All black with a subtle purple or green sheen in sunlight
  • Habitat Needs: Open woodlands / Fields / Urban and suburban areas / Tree canopies for nesting
  • Activity Period: Diurnal
  • Diet: Omnivorous - insects, seeds, carrion, garbage, eggs, fruit, small animals
  • Song/Call Description: Loud, familiar “caw-caw” with a wide range of vocalizations and mimicry

Bird Behavior

  • Notable Behaviors: Tool use / Cooperative breeding / Loud alarm calling / Caching food
  • Nesting Habits: Large twig nests high in trees; often reused or refurbished annually
  • Attracts To Garden By: Open space / Food scraps / Large trees / Ground seed or suet
  • Migration Patterns: Mostly resident; some northern populations may migrate short distances

Favorite Plants Or Features

  • Favorite Trees/Shrubs: Tall deciduous trees like oaks and maples
  • Favorite Flowers/Grasses: Not flower-specific; prefers open areas for foraging
  • Shelter Choices: Tall tree canopies / Woodlots / Urban tree clusters

Notes

  • Interaction with Pets: Wary but curious; may mob cats or dogs near a nest
  • Special Notes: Incredibly intelligent and social; crows can recognize human faces and pass information across generations

Description

The American Crow is a large, unmistakable bird cloaked in glossy black feathers, known for its raucous “caw” and commanding presence. A common sight in both rural fields and suburban neighborhoods, crows are extremely adaptable and intelligent. They often travel in small family groups, sometimes forming larger flocks in winter. Their flight is steady and direct, often punctuated by casual glides. These birds are omnivorous opportunists-just as happy scavenging a bit of dropped dog kibble as they are poking through leaf litter for insects. Though they rarely visit feeders directly, they’ll gladly take advantage of anything tossed into the yard. In the garden, they may perch high in the trees to observe and comment (loudly) on your landscaping choices.

Known Emberwood Members