Frequently Asked Questions About Crow Intelligence
The more we learn about crows, the more questions we have. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries about these remarkable birds.
Are crows the smartest birds?
Crows are consistently ranked among the most intelligent birds in the world, sharing the top tier with other corvids like ravens and jays, as well as parrots. It is difficult to name a single “smartest” bird, as different species exhibit different types of intelligence. Parrots, for example, are known for their remarkable vocal mimicry, while crows excel at problem-solving and tool use. It’s safest to say that crows represent one of the peaks of avian intelligence, with cognitive abilities that are on par with many mammals.
Do crows give gifts to humans?
There are many heartwarming online stories of crows leaving shiny objects—like pebbles, coins, or pieces of glass—for people who feed them. While these anecdotes are compelling, there is currently no scientific consensus that this is intentional “gifting” behavior. A more likely explanation is rooted in their caching behavior. Crows may simply be storing interesting, non-perishable items in a location they associate with a reliable food source (the human who feeds them). The “gift” is likely an unintentional side effect of this behavior. This is another reason why it’s best to avoid feeding them, as it creates an unnatural dynamic.
Why do crows gather in large groups in winter?
In the late afternoon during fall and winter, you may witness an incredible spectacle: hundreds or even thousands of crows flying together to a single location. This is a communal winter roost. Crows from a vast area gather at night for several reasons. First, there is safety in numbers, providing protection from nocturnal predators like Great Horned Owls. Second, huddling together offers warmth during cold nights. Finally, these roosts may act as information centers where crows can learn about new and productive feeding areas from one another before setting out again the next morning.
