Bird of the week: American and fish crows

Found across most of North America, American crows are permanent Florida residents.

Entirely black, with a thick bill, their distinct call is a loud and often repeated: Caw!

Fish crows, the other crow species in Florida, are endemic to the United States. Slightly smaller than
American crows, their call is more nasal, and, as indicated by their name, are typically found near water.

But to many, the two species are indistinguishable.

By varying their calls, crows communicate messages, including warning, threat, taunting, and cheer, to other crows. These calls are so specific that other animals will take heed of crow warning signals.

Crows are canny, adaptable and intelligent birds, which have adjusted to living among humans. Extremely social, they are dedicated to their families and social groups, often working together to find food or protect their turf.

Though many animals can recognize human faces, crows impress with the longevity of their memories of specific individuals, and their ability to pass on information about threatening humans. Researchers have repeatedly demonstrated crows’ abilities to discriminate dangerous from neutral faces. Crows will scold and mob a person who threatened them, years after the event.

Not just ones to hold a grudge, crows are also known to leave trinkets for humans who helped them.

Crows are omnivores, which will eat most anything. Fish crows will prey on nests and chicks of shore-nesting birds. By packing out trash, and not feeding birds, we can discourage crows from congregating in sensitive nesting areas. This will protect both our shore-nesting birds, and the crows, from harm.

Save our Seabirds is a non-profit organization whose mission is to rescue and rehabilitate
sick and injured birds, releasing as many as they can, while educating our community about
avoiding injuries and preserving habitats.