Species Guide: Carrion Crow (Corvus corone)
Family: Corvidae
Appearance
The Carrion Crow (Corvus corone) is characterized by its entirely black plumage, which exhibits a glossy sheen. They are frequently confused with Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) and Ravens (Corvus corax).
The key differentiators to look out for on a crow are:
The Carrion Crow is smaller than the Raven and can also be distinguished by its square-ended tail, as opposed to the raven’s diamond-shaped tail.
They have a uniformly black bill without any bare patches. This is in contrast to the Rook. The Carrion Crow lacks the distinctive feathery ‘trousers’ seen on the rook’s legs.
Carrion crows are typically observed either in solitary conditions or in small groups, whilst rooks are more commonly found in larger colonies.
Diet
As their name indicates, this species primarily feeds on carrion. Additionally, they consume invertebrates and grains, and they also take eggs and nestlings from the nests of other bird species on an opportunistic basis.
Habitat
You can pretty much spot this species in any environment, though they appear in their greatest numbers in villages, towns, on pastoral land, and in deciduous woodland.
They are widespread across much of the European Continent, and from a UK standpoint can be found across the British Isles except Ireland and the Isle of Man.
Behavior
Carrion crows are frequently observed alone, gliding low over agricultural fields and residential gardens, or perching in trees and on fence posts as they search for food. Occasionally, they may be seen in pairs or small groups. Like many corvid species, they exhibit increased sociability during the winter months, often integrating into mixed flocks alongside rooks and jackdaws.
The Carrion Crow’s most recognizable call is a loud, harsh, and repetitive guttural caw that can be heard throughout the year.
Carrion Crow Call:
Susanne Kuijpers, xeno-canto.org
These birds construct substantial nests using a variety of materials which they conceal within tall shrubs. Carrion Crows tend to be predominantly solitary when it comes to a nest site.
A typical clutch consists of three to four eggs, which the female incubates for a duration of up to twenty days. Following this period, the nestlings may take up to one month to reach full fledging.
Biometrics
| Wing Length | 32 cm |
| Body Weight | 509 grams |
| Longevity | 4 Years |
Natural Predators
Due to their size and intelligence, they have few natural predators. Golden Eagles are known to prey upon Carrion Crows, as are some mammals like Foxes and Pine Martens, especially if they encounter weaker individuals.
Folklore
Certain birds have long been burdened with negative reputations, and among them, crows stand out. These enigmatic creatures have been linked to omens of illness and death since ancient times, traced back to a haunting Greek myth surrounding the god Apollo. A solitary crow perched in your vicinity is often interpreted as a foreboding sign of impending misfortune, with many believing it heralds the passing of someone close. To ward off such ill fate, superstitious individuals may bow deeply or tip their hats in a respectful gesture toward the ominous bird.
Yet, the crow’s symbolism is not entirely grim; intriguing contradictions exist within folklore. Spotting a lone crow can also be viewed as a harbinger of good luck. In contrast, specific numbers of crows are associated with varying fortunes, adding layers to the mythology surrounding these clever avians. Each encounter with a crow, whether perceived as an omen or a charm, invites contemplation of the intricate relationship between humanity and nature.
Conservation Status
They are green-listed from a UK conservation standpoint and registered as Least Concern from a global viewpoint.
U.K.
Conservation Status
Global
Conservation Status
Related Articles
CITATIONS
REFERENCES
- Golley, Mark. Field Guide to the Birds of Britain and Ireland, Bloomsbury Publishing Plc, 2016. ProQuest Ebook Central. [Accessed 16/06/2025]
