The difference between a crow and a raven
Crow:
Crow is a bird from the family Corvidae, which includes ravens, magpies, and jays. They have a distinctive “caw-caw” sound and are usually black or dark grey in color with a fan-shaped tail. Their wingspan is generally smaller than ravens and their beaks are shorter and less curved.
Crows are omnivorous and feed on a diet of fruits, grains, insects, small animals, and even carrion. They are social birds and often seen in groups, known as murders.
Raven:
Raven is a large black bird from the family Corvidae, which also includes crows, magpies, and jays. They have a deep, croaking call and are usually larger than crows, with a wingspan up to four feet long. Their tails are wedge-shaped, and their beaks are longer and more curved than those of the crow.
Ravens are omnivorous and feed on a diet of fruits, grains, insects, small animals, and carrion. They are known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities and are often associated with mystery and mythology.
Key differences:
1. Size: Ravens are larger than crows, with a longer wingspan and heavier build.
2. Beak: Ravens have a longer and more curved beak than crows.
3. Tail: Crows have a fan-shaped tail, while ravens have a wedge-shaped tail.
4. Call: Ravens have a deeper, croaking call, while crows have a distinctive “caw-caw” sound.
5. Behavior: Crows are social birds and often seen in groups, known as murders, while ravens are solitary birds.
In conclusion, crows and ravens belong to the same family but have several key differences in size, beak, tail, call, and behavior. Understanding these differences can help you identify these birds in the wild and appreciate their unique characteristics.
Table difference between a crow and raven
| Characteristic | Crow | Raven |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller (16-21 inches) | Larger (21-26 inches) |
| Weight | Lighter (11-21 oz) | Heavier (24-57 oz) |
| Appearance | Black with a lighter bill and feathers on its neck | Shiny black with a heavier bill, shaggy feathers on its neck, and a wedge-shaped tail |
| Vocalization | Varied and more raspy | Deeper and more guttural |
| Habitat | More commonly found in urban and suburban areas | Prefer rural and wilderness habitats |
| Behavior | Less social and more aggressive towards other birds | More social and playful with other ravens |