Skip to main content

American Crow Identification

Looking for ID Help?

Our free app offers quick ID help with global coverage.

Try Merlin Bird ID

The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A large, long-legged, thick-necked bird with a heavy, straight bill. In flight, the wings are fairly broad and rounded with the wingtip feathers spread like fingers. The short tail is rounded or squared off at the end.

    Relative Size

    Nearly twice the size of a Blue Jay; about two-thirds the size of a Common Raven

    Relative Sizecrow sizedcrow-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 15.8-20.9 in (40-53 cm)
      • Weight: 11.2-21.9 oz (316-620 g)
      • Wingspan: 33.5-39.4 in (85-100 cm)

Regional Differences

Crows in the West are slightly smaller than eastern crows. Crows in Florida are small with large feet. Crows in the Pacific Northwest were formerly known as the Northwestern Crow and considered to be a separate species until 2021. They are slightly smaller and have a deeper voice.