Ravens and crows are distinct species, though they share a similar appearance as large, black birds. Ravens are generally larger than crows. Distinguishing them involves observing physical traits, behaviors, and vocalizations, not just overall size.
The Primary Size Distinction
Common ravens outweigh and outsize American crows. A common raven can measure approximately 22 to 27 inches in length with a wingspan ranging from 45 to 60 inches. Their weight falls between 24 and 57 ounces, making them more robust.
In contrast, American crows are smaller, with an average body length of 16 to 21 inches and a wingspan of about 33 to 39 inches. Crows weigh between 11 and 22 ounces, often about half the weight of a raven. While size can be challenging to estimate from a distance, ravens are often compared to the size of a Red-tailed Hawk, whereas crows are closer in size to a pigeon.
Distinctive Physical Traits
Beyond overall size, specific physical features differentiate ravens from crows. The beak is a prominent indicator; ravens possess a larger, thicker, and more curved beak compared to the crow’s sleeker, straighter bill. Both species have bristles at the base of their beaks, but these are more pronounced and longer on ravens.
Their tail feathers offer another distinguishing characteristic in flight. Ravens display a wedge-shaped or diamond-shaped tail, where the central feathers are longer, creating a pointed appearance. Crows have a fan-shaped or rounded tail, with feathers of relatively even length. Ravens also have shaggy, bristly feathers, often called hackles, around their throat, which are less apparent on crows. In flight, ravens also exhibit longer, narrower, and more pointed wings, while crows have broader, more rounded wingtips.
Behavioral and Vocal Clues
Sounds and flight patterns also help distinguish these birds, with vocalizations being a consistent difference. Ravens produce deep, throaty croaks or “gronk-gronk” sounds, which travel over long distances. Crows are known for their higher-pitched, more familiar “caw-caw” calls, though they also have a range of other sounds like rattles and clicks.
Their flight styles offer another clue. Ravens are known for their graceful, soaring flight, often riding thermals with minimal wing flapping and occasionally performing acrobatic maneuvers like barrel rolls. Crows engage in more direct flight with continuous, steady wing flapping and rarely soar for extended periods. In terms of social structure and habitat, ravens are observed alone or in pairs, preferring remote, wilder areas like forests and mountains. Crows are more social, forming larger groups, sometimes called “murders,” and are commonly found in urban and suburban environments.