The American crow is a large passerine bird species of the family Corvidae. They are a common bird found throughout much of North America, only absent from the tundra biome. American crows are the New World counterpart to the carrion crow and the hooded crow of Eurasia; all occupying the similar ecological niches.
Region
North America
Typical Environment
Found across most of the United States and southern Canada, extending into northern Mexico, absent mainly from high Arctic tundra and some desert interiors. They thrive in mixed landscapes with trees and open ground, including farmlands, suburbs, parks, and forest edges. Coastal areas, river valleys, and urban centers also support sizable populations. They readily exploit human-altered environments and food sources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
American crows are highly intelligent corvids known to recognize individual human faces and solve complex problems. They often gather in large communal roosts in winter, sometimes numbering in the thousands. Family groups may practice cooperative breeding, with offspring from previous years helping raise new chicks. Their adaptability makes them common in both wild and urban environments.
In Brooklyn, New York
The skull of an American crow
Skeleton (Museum of Osteology)
Pair of crows chasing away a red-tailed hawk from their nest
A fledgling, of the Northwestern subtype
Egg, in the collection of the Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Leucistic crow feeding its offspring
Brooklyn Museum – American crow – John J. Audubon
Temperament
social and intelligent
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady, deep wingbeats; occasional soaring
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or family groups during breeding season, with cooperative helpers assisting parents. In nonbreeding season they form large communal roosts and forage in loose flocks. Nests are bulky stick structures placed high in trees; pairs are generally monogamous.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations dominated by loud, hoarse caws in varied sequences and rhythms. They also produce rattles, clicks, and softer notes within family groups, showing considerable vocal flexibility.
