Hooded Crow

The Hooded Crow is a large corvid closely related to the Carrion Crow, from which it differs strikingly in plumage: the head, throat, wings, and tail are glossy black, while the back, breast, and belly are ash-grey, creating a two-toned, "hooded" appearance.

In size, shape, bill structure, and behavior it closely resembles the Carrion Crow, and the two were formerly treated as a single species. Where their ranges meet, in a band through central Europe, they interbreed and produce intermediate hybrids.

Key field marks

• Grey back, breast, and belly contrasting with black head, throat, wings, and tail
• Straight black bill, similar shape to Carrion Crow
• Same general size and structure as Carrion Crow

Similar species

• Carrion Crow: entirely black; the two species replace one another geographically and hybridize in a contact zone, producing birds with patchy grey-and-black plumage
• Rook: black overall with a bare pale face patch, unlike the Hooded Crow's grey body

Behavior cues

Behavior, voice, and habits are essentially identical to the Carrion Crow — plumage pattern is the reliable distinguishing feature.

Habitat

Occupies farmland, coastal areas, moorland, and open country, as well as towns in parts of its range.

Range

Found across northern and eastern Europe (including Scotland, Ireland, and Scandinavia), the Balkans, and eastward through the Middle East and parts of Central Asia, where it replaces the Carrion Crow.

Migration

Mostly resident, though northern populations may move south in severe winters; some local dispersal occurs outside the breeding season.

Behavior

Like the Carrion Crow, Hooded Crows are typically seen alone, in pairs, or in small family groups, holding territories year-round, though non-breeders may gather in loose flocks.

Voice

Calls are indistinguishable from the Carrion Crow's — a harsh, deliberate "caw-caw-caw."

Feeding

An opportunistic omnivore, taking carrion, invertebrates, grain, eggs, and small animals, and scavenging readily near human activity.

Nesting and breeding

Builds a sturdy stick nest in a tree, on a cliff, or occasionally on a structure. Clutches usually number 3–5 eggs, incubated mainly by the female.