Chough

Scientific name: Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

Did you know: The Chough, known for its distinctive red bill and legs, is the only crow family member with this colourful feature.

What Do Choughs Look Like? (how to identify them)

Choughs, part of the crow family, are easily distinguishable with their jet-black feathers.

Unique among crows, they sport striking red bills and legs. These birds are expert fliers, often seen performing impressive aerial acrobatics like diving and swooping.

Adult Choughs typically measure 39-40 cm in length, with a wingspan between 73-90cm, and weigh around 260-350g.

Differences Between Male And Female Choughs

Male and female Choughs are similar in appearance, making visual differentiation challenging. Both sexes share the same distinctive black plumage, red bill, and red legs.

What Do Choughs Eat?

Choughs primarily feed on insects and their larvae, showcasing their adaptability in various feeding environments.

Where Do Choughs Live? (inc. migration info)

Choughs are predominantly found in the western regions of the British Isles, thriving in marine, intertidal, and farmland habitats. They are non-migratory, residing year-round in their chosen locales, which include coastal cliffs and mountainous areas.

Bird Calls & Songs (the unique voices of Choughs)

Choughs are vocal birds, known for their loud, clear ‘chee-ow’ call. This call is akin to other corvids but is distinctly two-syllabled and more pronounced.

Fun Chough Facts (kid friendly)

Choughs are the only black crows with a red bill and legs.
They perform stunning flying displays, diving and swooping in the air.
Choughs are known to live in pairs and show loyalty to their nesting sites.
These birds can be found in coastal areas, where they feed on insects near the shore.
Choughs have a loud and clear call that sets them apart from other crows.