RSPB
Skip navigation

Birds by name

Carrion crow

Conservation status: Green

The all-black carrion crow is one of the cleverest, most adaptable of our birds. It is often quite fearless, although it can be wary of man. They are fairly solitary, usually found alone or in pairs. The closely related hooded crow has recently been split as a separate species. Carrion crows will come to gardens for food and although often cautious initially, they soon learn when it is safe, and will return repeatedly to take advantage of whatever is on offer.

Overview

Latin name

Corvus corone

Family

Crows and allies (Corvidae)

Where to see them

Found almost everywhere, from the centre of cities to upland moorlands, and from woodlands to seashore.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Carrion, insects, worms, seeds, fruit and any scraps.

Population

EuropeUK breeding*UK wintering*UK passage*
-790,000 territories--

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

Key

In the UK
All UK except N and W Scotland and N Ireland.

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

Illustrations

Audio

Stuart Fisher, Xeno-canto

Characteristics

Carrion crow

Carrion crow
  • Size: between pigeon-mallard
  • Feather colours: black
  • Beak colours: black/dark grey
  • Beak length: medium
  • Beak thickness: medium
  • Beak shape: medium
  • Leg colour: black/grey
  • Behaviour: on ground, bird hops on the ground, eats birds/chicks/eggs, eats fruit

Similar birds