Crows are found in countries all across the globe, with the exception of Antarctica. As highly adaptable birds, crows have managed to thrive in a diverse range of habitats, from tropical rainforests to deserts to cities. Their widespread distribution is a testament to their intelligence, flexibility, and ability to utilize human settlements and agriculture for food and resources.
Crows in Asia
Many crow species are found throughout Asia. The most widespread is the large-billed crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), which can be found from eastern Russia and Japan all the way west to Iran. Other Asian crows include:
- House crow (Corvus splendens) – India, southeast Asia, southwest Asia
- Collared crow (Corvus torquatus) – east Russia, Korea, China
- Piping crow (Corvus typicus) – southeast Asia
- Baja California crow (Corvus clarionensis) – Philippines
Crows thrive around human habitation in Asia and often become conditioned to being fed by people. They are considered an invasive nuisance species in some areas, such as Singapore. But their intelligence is also respected in parts of Asia – crows appear in Hindu mythology and are the subject of folktales in countries like Korea.
Crows in Europe and the Middle East
The most common crows found across Europe and the Middle East are:
- Western jackdaw (Corvus monedula)
- Rook (Corvus frugilegus)
- Carrion crow (Corvus corone)
- Hooded crow (Corvus cornix)
Crows are an important part of folklore and mythology in this region. They appear in Greek, Celtic, Norse, and Arab legends. Crows and ravens are also mentioned several times in the Bible and Quran. Historically, crows were seen as omens, messengers between worlds, creators, tricksters, and had other symbolism attached to them.
Crows in Africa
There are several crow species found across the diverse habitats of Africa:
- Pied crow (Corvus albus) – nearly all of sub-Saharan Africa
- Somali crow (Corvus edithae) – eastern Africa
- Brown-necked raven (Corvus ruficollis) – northern and southern Africa
- Fan-tailed raven (Corvus rhipidurus) – eastern and southern Africa
- Cape crow (Corvus capensis) – southern Africa
In many parts of Africa, crows are associated with trickery, misfortune, and evil. However, in other areas they are respected and even revered. Some African cultures use crows in traditional medicine and ceremonies. Their sharp intelligence means they often figure heavily in folktales and myths as well.
Crows in Australia and Oceania
Australia and many Pacific islands are home to the Torresian crow (Corvus orru). It is found across Australia, New Guinea, and islands like New Caledonia and Vanuatu. A related species, the Mariana crow (Corvus kubaryi), is native to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Unfortunately this species is now extinct in the wild due to habitat loss and the introduction of the brown tree snake.
Crows appear frequently in Australian Aboriginal mythology and were seen as either creators or tricksters. They continue to appear in modern Aboriginal folklore and art as well.
Crows in North America
There are several crow species native to different parts of North America:
- American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) – nearly all of North America
- Northwestern crow (Corvus caurinus) – Pacific northwest coast
- Fish crow (Corvus ossifragus) – eastern US coast
- Tamaulipas crow (Corvus imparatus) – along US/Mexico border
The American crow is the most widespread and familiar crow across the continent. Highly adaptable and intelligent, it has taken advantage of human settlement to greatly expand its range. Crows appear in Native American mythology and traditions, often as a trickster figure. Their noisy social nature and black coloration leads to varied symbolism.
Crows in Central and South America
Crows found in the New World south of North America include:
- White-necked crow (Corvus leucognaphalus) – South America
- Jamaican crow (Corvus jamaicensis) – Jamaica
- Palm crow (Corvus palmarum) – Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico
- Violaceous crow (Corvus violaceus) – northern South America
The white-necked crow is the most widespread South American species. Crows appear in Native American mythology and culture in this region, with meanings both positive and negative attached to them. Their loud behavior makes them figures of trickery and misfortune in some tales.
Conclusion
In summary, crows are found on every continent except Antarctica. The various species thrive in diverse ecosystems like rainforests, deserts, coasts, and human settlements. Crows tend to be prominent figures in the mythology and folklore of the native cultures where they are found. Their intelligence and social complexity continues to fascinate people. While sometimes viewed negatively, they are also powerful symbols open to many interpretations across human cultures.
