Hooded Crow
Least ConcernCorvus cornix
Visual Identification
Hooded Crow
Appearance
The Hooded Crow is a distinctive bird with a grey body, black head, wings, and tail. Its size is comparable to that of the Carrion Crow, and it has a sturdy build and a thick, slightly curved black bill.
Both sexes look alike, although females are marginally smaller than males. There are no seasonal variations in plumage.
Juveniles resemble adults but may have a slightly duller appearance with less defined grey areas. Immature birds have blue-grey eyes, and the inside of their beaks is pinkish-red rather than the dark grey of adult birds.
Size
Length
44cm to 51cm
Wingspan
84cm to 100cm
Weight
430g to 650g
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey Black
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Black
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Hooded Crows are found across Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and parts of the Middle East. They inhabit various environments, including woodlands, agricultural areas, coastal regions, and urban settings.
In the UK, Hooded Crows are primarily found in Scotland, particularly in the north and east, where they replace the Carrion Crow. Their range extends into Northern Ireland but is rare in England and Wales.
During winter months, the UK’s resident population of hooded crows increases with the arrival of overwintering birds that migrate from Scandinavia after the breeding season. These temporary residents may be spotted along the eastern coast of Scotland and England.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subarctic
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Hooded Crows have a varied diet, including insects, small mammals, birds' eggs, carrion, and plant matter. Small quantities of weeds, seeds and grain are also eaten.
They are known to drop hard-shelled molluscs from heights to crack them open. In urban areas, they often scavenge human food waste, displaying adaptability in their feeding habits.
Behaviour
Hooded Crows are highly intelligent and social birds, often seen in small groups or pairs. They are known for their problem-solving abilities, using tools to access food. These birds are opportunistic feeders, frequently scavenging in urban areas and showing bold behaviour around humans.
Vocalisation
The Hooded Crow's call is a harsh, raspy 'kraa' or 'kraah', similar to other crows but slightly higher-pitched. They also produce a variety of softer calls and guttural sounds during social interactions. In flight, they may emit a repeated 'uk-uk-uk' sound.
Nesting & Breeding
Hooded Crows form monogamous pairs and breed from March to June. They engage in aerial displays and mutual preening during courtship.
Nests are typically built high in trees or on cliff ledges, constructed of sticks and lined with softer materials. Females lay 3-6 pale blue-green eggs with brown speckles.
Incubation lasts about 18-20 days, primarily by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after 4-5 weeks but remain dependent on adults for several more weeks.
Lifespan
years
The Hooded Crow typically lives for 4 to 16 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While the Hooded Crow is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, local populations may face threats from habitat loss and persecution. In some areas, they are considered agricultural pests, leading to control measures. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable habitats and educating the public about their ecological role.
Population Data
Global Population Estimate
Unknown
Global Population Trend
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Hooded Crows in open landscapes, parks, and urban areas
- Listen for their distinctive harsh 'kraa' call
- Observe their intelligent behaviour, such as tool use or problem-solving
- In the UK, focus on northern and eastern Scotland, where they are more common
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Grey Crow, Scotch Crow, Hoodie Crow, Hoodie Bird
Family:
CorvidaePredators
Main predators include large raptors such as eagles and goshawks, as well as mammals like foxes and martens, particularly for eggs and nestlings.
Did You Know?
- Hooded Crows can recognise and remember individual human faces for years.
- They have been observed creating and using tools in the wild.
- In some areas, Hooded Crows hybridise with Carrion Crows where their ranges overlap.
- They were once considered the same species as the Carrion Crow before becoming recognised as a distinct and separate species in 2002
- They have also been observed to demonstrate awareness of their own body size, using this knowledge to their advantage to feed safely.
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