
American Crow
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos
Family: Corvidae (Crows and Jays)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane, broadly rounded tip, oval outline with smooth edges
- Size
- Approximately 3 to 4 inches long, standard for a medium-to-large body covert of a corvid species
- Rarity
- Very Common
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Description
The American Crow is an intelligent, highly adaptable medium-sized bird with all-black plumage, a strong stout bill, and a familiar cawing vocalization. Known for their complex social structures and remarkable problem-solving abilities, crows thrive in close proximity to human habitation.
Colour & Pattern
Solid deep black with subtle iridescent metallic blue and purple sheens under direct sunlight, uniform across both dorsal and ventral surfaces
Barb Structure
Strongly pennaceous through the upper visible vane with tightly interlocked barbicels, becoming slightly plumulaceous at the very base
Texture & Surface
Smooth, glossy, and velvety with a rich matte-black sheen, offering moderate stiffness while retaining flexibility
Key Features
Solid iridescent black coloration, rounded contour shape, stiff yet velvety texture, and absence of any banding or mottling
Habitat
Highly adaptable, found in agricultural fields, open woodlands, suburban neighborhoods, parks, and urban centers
Geographic Range
Widespread throughout North America, ranging from southern Canada across most of the United States to northern Mexico
Ecological Role
Acts as an important scavenger and seed disperser, helping clean organic debris and regulating insect populations
Similar Species
Common Raven (Corvus corax), which features much larger, lanceolate throat hackle feathers and greater overall size
Interesting Facts
Crows are among the smartest birds in the world, capable of recognizing human faces, using tools, and passing down complex knowledge across generations
Condition Notes
Good condition, clean with intact barbs and minimal fraying at the base, showing fresh pigmentation with no obvious sun bleaching
Notes
Sunnyvale, CA outside a tech office