Ravens and crows, two intelligent birds found across many parts of the world, are frequently confused due to their similar appearances. These members of the Corvidae family often prompt questions about their distinctions. While they share striking black plumage and remarkable intellect, their differences become apparent with closer observation. This article clarifies their primary size distinction and provides other reliable ways to tell these birds apart in the wild.
The Definitive Size Answer
Ravens are consistently larger than crows, making size a primary distinguishing factor. A common raven typically measures between 22.1 and 27.2 inches (56-69 cm) in length, boasting a wingspan that ranges from 45.7 to 60 inches (116-153 cm). Their weight can vary from 24.3 to 57.3 ounces (689-1625 grams).
In contrast, the American crow is a smaller bird, usually measuring 15.8 to 20.9 inches (40-53 cm) long with a wingspan of 33.5 to 39.4 inches (85-100 cm). American crows weigh significantly less, generally between 11.2 and 21.9 ounces (316-620 grams). This means a raven can be almost double the size and weight of a crow, with ravens comparable in size to a Red-tailed Hawk, while crows are closer to the size of a pigeon.
Key Visual Identifiers
Beyond overall size, specific physical characteristics help distinguish ravens from crows. Ravens possess a larger, thicker, and often more robust beak that can appear slightly curved, whereas crows typically have a sleeker, straighter bill. Both species have bristles at the base of their beaks, but these are noticeably longer and more pronounced in ravens.
In flight, tail shape is a key difference. Ravens generally display a wedge-shaped or diamond-shaped tail, which results from their longer middle tail feathers. Crows, on the other hand, have a fan-shaped or rounded tail, as their tail feathers are mostly uniform in length.
Throat feathers, known as hackles, offer another visual distinction when viewing the birds up close. Ravens have shaggy, bristly feathers around their throat that are often visible, particularly when they vocalize. Crows, conversely, have smoother throat feathers. Ravens can sometimes exhibit a subtle iridescent blue or purple sheen on their plumage.
Flight patterns also differ noticeably. Ravens frequently soar for extended periods, riding thermals with stable, graceful movements and less wing flapping. Crows tend to flap their wings more frequently and have a more direct, purposeful flight path, rarely soaring for long durations. Ravens also have more pointed wingtips, in contrast to the blunt and splayed wingtips of crows.
Distinct Sounds and Habits
Vocalizations are often the most reliable method for telling ravens and crows apart. Ravens are known for their deep, resonant, and guttural “croak” or “grrrronk” calls, which can include a variety of complex sounds. In contrast, crows produce a higher-pitched, sharp “caw-caw” sound, frequently repeated.
Social behavior also provides a strong indicator for identification. Ravens are typically observed alone or in pairs, though they may congregate in larger numbers at abundant food sources. Crows, however, are highly social birds and are frequently seen in larger family groups or “murders,” often forming communal roosts outside of the breeding season.
General habitat preferences offer clues, although both species are adaptable. Ravens sometimes show a preference for more remote, wild, forested, or mountainous open areas. Crows are more commonly found in urban and suburban settings, agricultural fields, and open woodlands, thriving in human-dominated landscapes. Despite these general preferences, their habitats can overlap significantly in many regions.