Many animals possess distinctive collective nouns that capture an aspect of their behavior or appearance. From a “parliament” of owls to an “exaltation” of larks, these terms often add a layer of intrigue to the natural world. Among these, the collective noun for crows stands out as particularly striking and has long fascinated observers.
The “Murder” Unveiled
A group of crows is most famously known as a “murder.” This widely accepted collective noun is one of the most recognized in the English language. While less common terms like a “horde” or a “mob” exist, “murder” is the prominent and historically recognized designation. This unique label has roots stretching back centuries, reflecting a time when many animal groupings were given vivid, poetic names. It is a poetic term, as ornithologists typically refer to any group of birds as a flock.
The Origins of the Term
The unusual term “murder” for a group of crows stems from ancient folklore and superstitions surrounding these birds. Historically, crows were associated with death and dark omens due to their scavenging nature. Their presence was common around battlefields, gallows, and cemeteries, where they would feed on carrion, linking them directly to mortality in the human imagination. The crow’s black plumage and its often harsh, raucous calls further contributed to these ominous perceptions.
Additionally, old folktales suggested that crows would gather to hold “trials” for a fellow crow, and if found guilty, the accused bird would be executed by the others. These deep-seated human perceptions and myths likely led to the adoption of such a somber collective noun.
Beyond the Name: Crow Social Life
Crows are highly intelligent birds, exhibiting complex social behaviors. They display problem-solving abilities, including tool use and creation for food access. Their sophisticated communication system involves various calls conveying nuanced information. Crows live in intricate family units, with young birds often staying for years to assist in raising subsequent broods, a behavior known as cooperative breeding.
These social bonds extend to cooperative activities like foraging. Crows also gather in large communal roosts, especially in colder months, for safety from predators and heat conservation. Another cooperative behavior is “mobbing,” where groups loudly harass and chase away threats like hawks or owls to protect territory or warn others. Crows also recognize individual human faces for years, even teaching others about specific individuals.