A Guide to UK Birds: Meet the Corvids

 If you've ever watched a crow tilt its head and stare back at you with unsettling intelligence, you already know there's something special about corvids. This family of birds is found across the UK and is widely considered to be among the most intelligent animals on the planet. They definitely know what you are thinking and will hold it against you until your untimely end. Don’t worry though even if they don’t’ get their revenge they do teach their children to hate you too!

Whether you're a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or someone who just really appreciates the gothic aesthetic of a Corvid this one is for you!

What Are Corvids?

Corvids belong to the family Corvidae, a group of passerine (perching) birds known for their large brains relative to body size, complex social behaviours, and remarkable problem-solving abilities. In the UK, you're likely to come across six main species but there are actually eight species of Corvid in the UK

• Carrion Crow (Corvus corone)  the classic all-black crow, found almost everywhere in England, Wales, and southern Scotland
• Rook (Corvus frugilegus)  similar to a crow but with a distinctive pale beak making it look a bit prehistoric
• Jackdaw (Corvus monedula)  smaller, with a grey head and striking blue eyes
• Raven (Corvus corax) the largest UK corvid, with a deep croaking call and a wedge-shaped tail
• Magpie (Pica pica) — unmistakable in black and white, with an iridescent tail
• Jay (Garrulus glandarius) — the most colourful corvid, with a flash of blue on its wings and a harsh, screeching call

Why Are Corvids So Fascinating?

Crows can recognise human faces and hold grudges. Ravens have been observed planning for the future. Jays hide thousands of acorns each autumn and can remember where they buried them months later. The main take away from this is…don’t mess with corvids!

In folklore, corvids have long held a place of mystery. Ravens guard the Tower of London (legend has it the kingdom will fall if they ever leave). Magpies are counted in rhymes. Crows appear in Celtic mythology as messengers between worlds.

How to Spot Corvids in the UK

You don't need to venture far to find corvids- they're one of the most adaptable bird families in Britain. Here's where to look:

• Parks and gardens  Carrion crows and jackdaws are bold and will often approach humans in search of food, they have been known to bring gifts to those who regularly feed them
• Farmland and fields Rooks nest in large rookeries in tall trees near open fields
• Woodland edges Jays prefer oak woodland; listen for their harsh alarm call before you see them you will hear them
• Upland and coastal areas Ravens thrive in wilder landscapes, particularly in Wales, Scotland, and the West Country but they have been spotted nesting locally to me in Wigan and of course there’s the well known London ravens who are heavily protected.
• Rooftops and chimneys Jackdaws love nesting in old buildings and church towers but you will spot them and their sassy little walks just about everywhere. 

At Pixiecraft, corvids are well and truly appreciated. The illustrated guide to corvids of the UK ‘It’s not just a crow zine’ is the silliest guide to getting to know some of the most common Corvids in the UK. Not enough Corvid appreciation for you? Then Reasons to Be a Crow zine is a funny, hand drawn celebration of everything that makes crows brilliant and why you should 100% be jealous of them.

Both make great novelty gifts for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and anyone who's ever been judged by a crow.