Carrion Crow Vs Hooded Crow: Key Differences Explained
The Carrion Crow (Corvus corone) and the Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix) are both members of the corvid family and look very similar apart from their colourings and markings. These two birds have been the subject of many studies over the years and a result of a study in 2002 determined that although closely related, these two are actually a different species.
In this article we’ll take a close look at the Hooded Crow and the Carrion Crow and identify all of their differences as well as their similarities. Keep reading to find out more.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The plumage of the Carrion Crow is completely black, whereas the plumage of the Hooded Crow is two-tone black and grey
- The geographical range of the Hooded Crow is Northern & Eastern Europe and the Middle East
- Whereas the geographical range of the Carrion Crow is Western & Central Europe and parts of Asia
- Hooded Crows tend to favour open fields and coastal areas
- Whereas Carrion Crows prefer woodlands and farmlands
- Hooded Crows have a softer, higher pitched “caw” sounding call
- Whereas the call of the Carrion Crow is deeper and more guttural
- Both species are intelligent, adaptable and opportunistic omnivores
What Is The Difference Between A Carrion Crow And A Hooded Crow?
Even though they have different colourings, the Carrion Crow and the Hooded Crow are almost genetically identical. The debate over whether they are different strains of the same genus or a separate genus entirely has been ongoing since Carl Linnaeus called them a separate species in 1758.
In fact, it wasn’t until 2002 that they were designated as two separate species by the British Ornithologists’ Union (BOU).
These birds are known to interbreed and produce healthy, viable offspring. This proves that there are no reproductive barriers that many biologists use as essential markers for the distinction of a species.
However, these two different types of crow have been mating within their own groups to such a degree as to keep both populations relatively stable. There are enough differences to distinguish between these two closely related cousins which can be useful especially in areas where the two species neighbour each other.
These differences include;
Visual Differences
This is by far the easiest way to distinguish between Carrion Crows and Hooded Crows. Carrion Crows are all black including their legs, feet and beak. Hooded Crows on the other hand, have a black hood, throat, wings and thigh feathers but an ash-grey body.
Apart from these differences in colouration, there’s little else to tell them apart. Both bird species are incredibly similar in size and weight with only a slight difference between the two.
Differences In Habitat
From a geographical perspective, there is a huge difference between these two species. Hooded Crows are primarily found in northern and eastern Europe in places like north west Scotland, Ireland, Scandinavia, the Baltics, and parts of Russia. As well as some places in the Middle East.
Carrion Crows are primarily found in Western and Central Europe including most of the UK except northern regions, as well as parts of Asia. In some places, their ranges overlap which creates zones where hybridisation between the two species occur.
Eastern Germany and most of Scotland are considered to be hybridisation zones and many ornithologists and naturalists flock to these areas to see the differences between these birds up close.
Hooded Crows are often seen in open landscapes, such as agricultural fields, coastlines, and urban areas. They are more adaptable to human presence and can be frequently seen scavenging in cities and towns.
Carrion Crows are commonly found in both rural and urban environments, favouring woodlands, farmlands, and parklands.
Both species are intelligent, opportunistic omnivores, often seen around roadkill and human waste where they scavenge for food. However, Carrion Crows tend to be more cautious and shy of humans compared to Hooded Crows.
Nests & Eggs
With regards to their nests, both species are similar in their nesting habits due to their close genetic relationship, but there are some variations depending on their habitats and slight behavioural differences.
Carrion Crows prefer to nest in trees, particularly in woodlands, forests, and even in isolated trees in farmlands or parks. They generally prefer taller, more secluded trees to avoid predators, often choosing to nest high up. They will occasionally nest on man-made structures like buildings, pylons, or bridges, especially in urban areas.
Hooded Crows are more flexible with nesting locations and can be found nesting in a wider variety of habitats. They will often nest in trees, but can also use cliffs, coastal areas, and even ground-level sites, especially in treeless regions like the Scottish Highlands or coastal areas of northern Europe. In some urban areas, Hooded Crows will sometimes nest on buildings or other structures.
Nests
The nests themselves are of a similar design and are typically made from twigs, branches, and plant material for the outer structure. The nest is lined with softer materials such as wool, grass, moss, hair, or feathers to create a comfortable place for the eggs and chicks. The nests are sturdy and well-constructed, usually appearing large and bulky.
Despite these similarities in design and construction, there are distinct differences in the nests of these two species. Hooded Crows often use more diverse nesting materials, especially if they are nesting in coastal or urban areas where nesting materials are limited.
Carrion Crows tend to nest more frequently in trees with their nests higher up and more securely anchored to the branches of the tree.
Eggs
The eggs of both species have a number of similarities which include; The eggs are oval shaped and have a background colour that ranges from pale blue-green to light olive. The eggs are often speckled, blotched or spotted with brown, grey or black markings which are ideally suited to camouflage them from any predators.
Clutch sizes in both species range from 3 to 6 eggs with 4 or 5 being the most common. Eggs in both species are roughly 43 x 30 mm in size and weigh around 19 to 20 grams.
However, Carrion Crow eggs tend to have a more uniform speckling pattern and are often slightly larger on average compared to Hooded Crow eggs. Whereas Hooded Crow eggs might show more variation in colouration and patterns, especially in regions where they have access to diverse environments. The markings can be more concentrated at the larger end of the egg.
Bird Calls
Both species of crow have similar calls, which are harsh and croaking, but experienced birdwatchers may notice slight differences in tone and rhythm. The call of the Hooded Crow is often slightly higher-pitched and softer than that of the Carrion Crow.
Carrion Crows make a deeper, more guttural “Caw”.
Size & Weight
When it comes to the size and weight of these two Crow species, there’s hardly any difference at all. This makes it difficult to distinguish solely by the size of the birds.
Hooded Crows are around 45 to 47 centimetres in length with a wingspan of around 93 to 104 centimetres. They can weigh anywhere between 370 to 650 grams.
Carrion Crows are of a similar length ranging from 45 to 48 centimetres with a wingspan of around 92 to 105 centimetres. They also have a similar weight range of between 365 to 655 grams.
SEE ALSO: Gannet Vs Cormorant: Key Differences Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
The best way to tell these two species apart is by their appearance. The Hooded Crow has a two-tone colouration with a grey body and black head, wings, and tail, while the Carrion Crow is completely black.
Yes, there are Hooded Crows in the UK. They can be found in woodland, farmland, towns and gardens in north west Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.
You can identify a Carrion Crow by its all black, glossy sheen. All of the Carrion Crow is black including its plumage, beak, legs and feet.
