The term “black bird” causes confusion because it is used both as a general color description and as a specific name for certain species. A Crow, conversely, is a precise biological entity defined by its genus and family. The term “black bird” might refer to any dark-colored avian species, from the American Crow to a small Starling. This article clarifies the differences in classification, physical appearance, behavior, and vocalization between the scientifically defined Crow and the various species commonly referred to as black birds.
Understanding the Terminology and Taxonomy
The most fundamental difference lies in their scientific classification, or taxonomy. Crows belong to the genus Corvus and are members of the family Corvidae, a group of highly intelligent passerine birds that also includes ravens, jays, and magpies. This classification makes a Crow a specific, well-defined type of bird.
In contrast, the common name “black bird” often refers to species in completely different families. New World Blackbirds, such as Grackles and Cowbirds, belong to the Icteridae family. The European Blackbird belongs to the Turdidae family, commonly known as the thrush family. When comparing a Crow and a black bird, one is typically comparing a member of the Corvidae family against another dark-colored bird.
Morphological Differences: Size, Shape, and Feathers
A Crow is significantly larger and more robust than most birds commonly called “black birds.” The American Crow measures approximately 16 to 21 inches long with a wingspan of up to 39 inches. In comparison, a Common Grackle is typically 11 to 13 inches long with a wingspan closer to 18 inches and often weighs four times less than a Crow.
Beak and Tail Shape
The Crow’s beak is thick, stout, and powerful, adapted for its omnivorous diet. Smaller black birds, such as Grackles, possess a longer, thinner, and more pointed beak, suited for probing for insects and cracking seeds. In flight, a Crow generally displays a blunt, fan-shaped or squared-off tail. Many black birds, particularly Grackles, have a longer tail that can appear V-shaped or wedge-shaped.
Plumage
Despite the common black coloring, feather appearance separates these groups. Crows have uniformly black plumage that tends to appear matte. Many smaller black birds, especially male Grackles and Starlings, exhibit a dazzling iridescence with high-gloss sheens of purple, blue, or green when viewed in direct sunlight. The European Starling has a unique, speckled white pattern on its black feathers, most noticeable during winter.
Distinguishing Features: Behavior and Vocalization
Vocalization is the most reliable way to distinguish a Crow from a smaller black bird. The Crow’s call is a complex, varied, and harsh “caw” used for long-distance communication and territory defense. While Crows are capable of a wide repertoire of sounds, including rattles, clicks, and coos, their signature call is distinctively loud and guttural.
Calls and Flight Style
Smaller black birds produce simpler, often more metallic or musical calls. The Common Grackle is known for a squeaking or grating sound, while the European Starling is a highly skilled vocal mimic. In flight, Crows exhibit slower, more deliberate wingbeats, often soaring or gliding. Smaller black birds tend to have more rapid, stiff wingbeats and a more direct or erratic flight style.
Social structure further highlights the differences. Crows live in complex, hierarchical family units and engage in communal roosting, displaying high intelligence and problem-solving skills. Species like the European Starling and the Common Grackle are known for forming massive, transient single-species flocks, sometimes numbering in the thousands, which create intricate aerial displays called murmurations.
Identifying Common Non-Crow Black Birds
The Common Grackle is often mistaken for a Crow due to its size and dark color. However, the Grackle’s bright yellow eyes are a definitive field mark, as Crows have dark eyes. Grackles also display iridescent plumage that shimmers with purples and greens, unlike the Crow’s duller black.
The European Starling is significantly smaller than a Crow, measuring only 7.9 to 9.1 inches long. Starlings have a short tail and a pointed, yellow beak during the summer and are often seen walking with a distinct strutting gait. Finally, the male Red-winged Blackbird is easily identified by the bright red and yellow shoulder patches, or epaulets, displayed during flight and courtship.