What is the Difference Between Crow and Raven?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main differences between crows and ravens are their size, appearance, flight pattern, and vocalizations. Here are the key distinctions between the two:
- Size: Ravens are larger than crows, with a more massive body and a longer neck when in flight. Ravens are as big as Red-tailed Hawks, while crows are about the size of pigeons.
- Appearance: Ravens have a 3.5-4 ft wingspan, weigh around 40 oz, and are 24-27 inches long from head to tail. Crows have a 2.5 ft wingspan, weigh around 20 oz, and are about 17 inches long.
- Flight Pattern: Ravens have pointed wings and wedge-shaped tails, giving them a more streamlined appearance in flight. In contrast, crows have blunt and splayed wings, and fan-shaped tails.
- Vocalizations: Crows produce a high-pitched "caw" sound, while ravens make a deeper, croaking sound.
- Social Behavior: Ravens often travel in pairs, whereas crows are more likely to be seen in larger groups.
- Location: Ravens are less common in urban areas compared to crows.
By paying attention to these differences, you can distinguish between crows and ravens in their natural environment.
Comparative Table: Crow vs Raven
Here is a table comparing the differences between crows and ravens:
| Feature | Crow | Raven |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller, similar to pigeon size | Larger, about the size of a hawk |
| Wingspan | Smaller wingspan | Wingspan around 45 inches |
| Beak | Smaller, flatter beak | Larger, curvier beak |
| Bristles | Less pronounced bristles at the base of the beak | More pronounced bristles at the base of the beak |
| Plumage | Iridescent blue and purple, but less shiny than ravens | Richer sheen, with a bluish or purplish hue |
| Throat Feathers | Swept neat and tidy | Ruffled feathers |
| Tail | Fan-shaped, squared-off tail | Long, wedge-shaped tail |
| Flight | Blunt and splayed wingtips | More tapered, longer, pointed wings |
| Voice | Higher-pitched caw, caw sound | Deeper, throatier, croaking call |
| Ground Movement | Walks | Combination of walking and hopping |
| Social Behavior | Often found in larger groups (murders) | Often found in pairs |
Despite their differences, crows and ravens are both highly intelligent and social birds with opportunistic omnivorous diets. They are also both members of the Corvidae family, which includes jays and magpies.
Read more: