Distinguishing crows from ravens can be tricky for bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike. While there are several physical and behavioral differences between these two corvid species, they also share many similarities that can cause confusion.
What are the main differences between crows and ravens?
Here are some of the key ways to tell crows and ravens apart:
Size
Ravens are noticeably larger than crows. Ravens average 25 inches (64 cm) long with a 4 foot (120 cm) wingspan, about the size of a hawk. Crows measure around 18 inches (45 cm) and have a 3 foot (90 cm) wingspan.
Beak
A raven’s beak is larger and heavier than a crow’s beak. A raven’s beak also has a curved tip, versus a crow’s straight bill.
Feathers
Ravens have longer throat feathers (called hackles) which form a distinctive, shaggy ruff. Crows have smooth, neat-looking feathers.
Tail
In flight, a raven’s tail has a wedge shape while a crow’s tail feathers are more fanned out.
Voice
Ravens produce a deeper, croaking “kraa-kraa” sound compared to the higher-pitched “caw caw” of crows.
Behavior
Ravens often travel in pairs, while crows are seen in larger flocks. Ravens perform aerial acrobatics during flight, but crows tend to fly straight.
What similarities do crows and ravens share?
Despite their differences, crows and ravens have many common traits including:
Coloration
Both crows and ravens are completely black, without any white markings.
Intelligence
Crows and ravens are among the smartest birds, capable of solving problems, using tools, and remembering faces.
Habitat
Crows and ravens occupy similar habitats and can be found throughout North America.
Diet
Both species are omnivorous, eating insects, grains, fruits, small animals, and food waste.
Nesting
Crows and ravens build large, stick nests high up in trees to raise their young.
Taxonomy
Crows and ravens belong to the same genus, Corvus, in the crow family.
How can you identify a raven vs. a crow?
Use this handy table summarizing the main identification points:
| Trait | Raven | Crow |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Very large (25 inches long) | Medium (18 inches long) |
| Beak | Heavy, curved tip | Smaller, straight |
| Feathers | Shaggy throat feathers | Smooth feathers |
| Tail | Wedge-shaped | Fan-shaped |
| Flight | Soaring, aerial acrobatics | Direct flying |
| Voice | Deep “kraa” sound | Higher-pitched “caw” |
| Flocking | Pairs or small groups | Larger flocks |
Where can I observe crows and ravens?
Here are some tips on the best places to look for crows and ravens:
Countryside
Scan open farmlands, fields, and rural areas. Ravens prefer remote countryside over populated areas.
Roadkill
Both species will feed on carrion alongside roads. Watch for birds scavenging roadkill.
Woodlands
Crows frequent forests and woodlots year-round. Listen for their “caw” calls.
Towns and Cities
American crows adapt well to human settlements. Check lawns, parking lots, and dumpsters.
Coastlines
Beaches and tidal areas attract crows searching for marine creatures washed ashore.
Cliffs
Scan sea cliffs and canyon walls for raven nests tucked into crevices.
What is a group of crows or ravens called?
Crows and ravens have different collective nouns based on their behavior:
Crows
– A “murder” of crows – Their loud calls sound like they are raising a “ruckus”
– A “parcel” of crows – When perched together
– A “hover” of crows – When flying as a group
Ravens
– An “unkindness” of ravens – For their mischievous nature
– A “conspiracy” of ravens – Conjures up images of ravens plotting in secrecy
– A “constable” of ravens – Hearkens back to when ravens acted as watchguards
Do crows and ravens get along?
Crows and ravens don’t mingle in the wild because they are territorial against their own species. However, the two corvid species coexist well enough without direct confrontation.
Crows wouldn’t want ravens intruding on their territory due to competition for food. Ravens tend to nest and feed farther away from populated zones frequented by crows.
There may be some occasional squabbling, especially around a food bonanza such as a dump or animal carcass. But outright attacks are rare since ravens and crows fill slightly different ecological niches.
Why do people get crows and ravens confused?
There are several reasons why differentiating crows and ravens can be difficult, such as:
Similar appearance
Both species have all-black plumage, which can make them look nearly identical at a distance.
Overlapping ranges
Crows and ravens occupy much of the same territories across North America, so misidentifications are common.
Hybridization
In some areas, crows and ravens interbreed, producing hybrid birds with intermediate features.
Rarity of ravens
Ravens are rarer than crows, so people presume any all-black corvid they spot is a crow.
Group mobbing
When threatened by predators, crows and ravens form mixed-species mobs, confusing observers.
Varied vocalizations
Both make a wide repertoire of calls, from croaks to rattles, leading to misidentifications.
What is the best way to learn to identify crows and ravens?
Here are some tips for mastering crow vs raven identification:
Note size
Observe proportions carefully – a raven is distinctly larger with a bulkier head and bill.
Study shape
A crow’s tail feathers have an evenly fanned shape when spread.
Listen to calls
Remember that ravens give a deep, hoarse “kraa” while crows make a higher “caw.”
Observe behavior
Crows form larger flocks while ravens travel in pairs. Watch aerial maneuvers.
Use range maps
Know which species occur in your area to narrow down possibilities.
Carry a field guide
Keep a reference book handy with crow and raven illustrations for easy comparisons.
Practice often
Regularly observe corvids whenever you’re outdoors to reinforce identification skills.
Conclusion
Telling a crow and raven apart does take some practice, but focusing on key characteristics like size, voice, beak shape, and flight style will help you correctly identify these intelligent black birds. Listening for the classic “caw” versus “kraa” calls is one of the fastest ways to know if you’ve spotted a crow or a raven overhead.
