FLYING, LANDING, PERCHING

Corvids are extremely smart. Yet, both species behave quite differ-

ently. The raven’s intelligence is legendary, making it one of my

favourite animals to observe. Raven pairs form bonds by engag-

ing in elaborate aerobatic flights that include playful loops, som-

ersaults, determined stoops and occasional body contact. When

perched and calling, crows bob up-and-down while ravens pump

their wings in-and-out. When crows land, they briefly fan their

tails and pop their wings. Ravens usually land harder, often tak-

ing several steps before coming to a full stop.

The two species don’t get along. Both are opportunistic thieves

and steal food from other animals. They might even rob nests.

When ravens invade a crow’s space, they get mobbed. When this

happens, it’s easy to compare their size and shape differences.

They each have distinctive flight patterns. Ravens flap with flex-

ible, pliable wings while crows have a much stiffer and usually

faster wing beat. With their broad wings, ravens sometimes use

updrafts or thermals to soar effortlessly like a hawk. Ravens’

wings whistle as they fly, an audible difference from crows.

Fortunately, ravens like to “talk.” They have a rich vocabulary

including croaks, rattles, clicks and a variety of low growls or

squawks. You frequently hear them well before seeing them.

Crow vocalizations are not as rich or as low-pitched as those of

the raven. But they too make a variety of sounds, most frequently

emitting a series of harsh “caws.”

Occasionally these two species will trick you, especially dur-

ing adverse weather or when observed only briefly. That’s when

I simply call them “cravens.”

Above left: Lanky and compact, the streamlined shape of American Crow

is easy to recognize when the bird is perched. Note the relatively straight

tail and pointy bill compared to those of Common Raven.

Above right: Common Raven is a great communicator, making many

different sounds. When calling, it tends to pump its wings at the wrists,

as illustrated here.

Left: Common Ravens are excellent fliers. They often appear playful as

they fly together in family or social groups. They can soar in effortless

flights or maneuver like seasoned stunt pilots. Their aerobatic skills

make them a joy to watch.

Photos by Tony Beck