The Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix) is a medium-sized bird of the crow family, found mainly in Europe and Asia. The bird is approximately 19-21 inches in length, with a wingspan of about 39-43 inches. The weight of the Hooded Crow is around 14-20 ounces, with males typically weighing slightly more than females.
The distinguishing field marks of the Hooded Crow are its black body and wings, contrasted with a grayish-black head, neck, and breast. The feathers on the nape of the bird’s neck are elongated, forming a shaggy “hood,” which gives the bird its name. In flight, the Hooded Crow’s wings appear darker than its body, and the bird’s tail is relatively short and squared-off.
Unlike many other bird species, the Hooded Crow is not migratory, and it can be found throughout its range year-round. However, there is some evidence to suggest that some populations of the bird may move to lower elevations in winter to avoid harsher weather conditions. The Hooded Crow is typically found in wooded areas, agricultural lands, and urban environments, where it feeds on a variety of food sources, including insects, small mammals, fruit, and carrion.
The Hooded Crow is a highly intelligent bird and has been observed using tools to obtain food, such as using sticks to extract insects from crevices. The bird is also known for its loud and varied calls, including a distinctive “kraa-kraa-kraa” vocalization. While the Hooded Crow is not considered to be globally threatened, some populations in parts of its range have experienced declines due to habitat loss and hunting.
In summary, the Hooded Crow is a medium-sized bird found in Europe and Asia, with a distinctive black body and wings and grayish-black head and breast. The bird is not migratory but may move to lower elevations in winter to avoid harsher weather conditions. It is found in wooded areas, agricultural lands, and urban environments and is known for its intelligence, tool use, and varied vocalizations. While not globally threatened, some populations of the Hooded Crow have experienced declines due to habitat loss and hunting.