American Crow

A robust, all-black passerine with a heavy bill. Known for its high intelligence and social nature. Crows have a distinctive 'caw' vocalization and a steady, flapping flight style.

Uniform deep matte black to charcoal grey coloration; subtle iridescent violet or blue sheen visible under direct light; underside is slightly more dull/greyish

Pennaceous and tightly interlocked throughout the majority of the vane; plumulaceous (fluffy) at the base (superior umbilicus) for insulation

Smooth, stiff, and somewhat glossy on the dorsal surface; the vane is rigid enough to maintain aerodynamic integrity

Uniform black color, rounded tip, sturdy white-based calamus, and lack of the dramatic emarginations found in primary feathers

Highly adaptable; found in open woodlands, agricultural fields, city parks, suburban yards, and shorelines

Common year-round resident across most of North America, from southern Canada throughout the continental United States to northern Mexico

Omnivorous scavenger and predator; plays a vital role in cleaning up carrion and controlling insect and rodent populations

Common Raven (larger, more pointed), Fish Crow (nearly identical, requires measurements/location), and Steller's Jay (smaller, blue tones)

Crows are known to use tools, recognize individual human faces, and even hold 'funerals' for deceased flock members

Good condition; showing slight wear (fraying) at the distal tip and along the trailing edge, suggesting it was molted naturally