crows

Crows are medium to large passerine birds in the genus Corvus, within the family Corvidae. The term crow is used for several species in Corvus, including the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), the carrion crow (Corvus corone), and the hooded crow (Corvus cornix). The common raven (Corvus corax) is a close relative often treated separately as a raven rather than a crow. Crows are found across many habitats in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa, from forests and fields to urban centers; they are highly adaptable and often thrive in cities.

Crows are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders. Diets include insects, seeds, fruits, grains, eggs, small vertebrates, carrion, and human food waste. They cache food and can exploit new food sources quickly. They are renowned for their intelligence: problem solving, planning, tool use in some species, and complex social learning. They have a wide repertoire of vocalizations and can mimic sounds.

Social structure varies by species but many crows form bonded pairs that defend a territory together. Some species roost in large communal gatherings. Nesting typically occurs in trees or buildings; clutch size is commonly 3–6 eggs, with an incubation period around 12–18 days and fledging after several weeks. Juveniles disperse gradually as adults establish new territories.

Conservation status is generally favorable for most crow species, though local declines can occur due to habitat loss, pesticides, or disease. Because of their ecological role as scavengers and seed dispersers, crows contribute to ecosystem processes, while their intelligence and adaptability have made them prominent in human culture and folklore.