Kraai

Kraai is the Dutch word for crow, referring to birds in the genus Corvus within the family Corvidae. In everyday Dutch usage, kraai typically denotes the larger, all-black or predominantly black crows such as the carrion crow (Corvus corone) and the hooded crow (Corvus cornix). Taxonomic treatment varies by country and source, with some authorities treating carrion crow and hooded crow as separate species and others as members of a crow complex. The term is distinct from raaf, which in Dutch is usually used for ravens.

Crows are medium- to large-sized passerines with a sturdy bill and plumage that is generally black, often with an iridescent sheen on the head and wings. The hooded crow differs in having a grey body with black head, wings, and tail. Crows are among the most opportunistic and adaptable birds, known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities. They are highly social, often forming mixed-species groups outside the breeding season, and they may roost in large numbers in urban and rural areas. A group of crows is colloquially known as a murder.

Distribution and habitat span much of Europe and parts of Asia. Kraai occupy a wide range of environments, including woodlands, farmland, and increasingly urban areas. They nest in trees or on human-made structures, with both parents typically involved in incubation and chick-rearing. Their diet is omnivorous, comprising invertebrates, small vertebrates, seeds, fruits, carrion, and human-provided food.

In culture, crows appear in folklore and literature as intelligent and enigmatic birds, often symbolizing transformation, mystery, or caution. Their presence in urban ecosystems underscores their adaptability and resilience.