Fish Crow

The Fish Crow (Corvus ossifragus) is a species of crow associated with wetland habitats in the eastern and southeastern United States.

The Fish Crow is superficially similar to the American Crow, but is smaller (36–41 cm in length) and has a silkier smooth plumage by comparison. The upperparts have a blue or blue-green sheen, while the underparts have a more greenish tint to the black. The eyes are dark brown. The differences are often only really apparent between the two species when seen side by side or when heard calling. The bill is usually somewhat slimmer than the American crow but is only readily distinguishable if both species are seen together. [Wikipedia]

Fish Crow

Not everyone realizes it, but there are two kinds of crows across much of the eastern United States. Looking almost identical to the ubiquitous American Crow, Fish Crows are tough to identify until you learn their nasal calls. Look for them around bodies of water, usually in flocks and sometimes with American Crows. They are supreme generalists, eating just about anything they can find. Fish Crows have expanded their range inland and northward along major river systems in recent decades. [All About Birds]

Fish Crow

Fish Crow Facts [All About Birds]

• Fish Crows are inveterate nest-robbers, raiding the nests of many kinds of waterbirds and songbirds, as well as finding and digging up the eggs of turtles. They also harass and steal food from crows, gulls, ibis, and Ospreys.
• When Fish Crows find a good source of food, they may cache the surplus for later. These hiding places can be in grass, in clumps of Spanish moss, or in crevices in tree bark. Nesting adults may use these caches when feeding their young.
• Fish Crows build a new nest for each breeding attempt. The nests are well-made, and one small area may have existing nests from up to four different years.
• The oldest known Fish Crow was 14 years, 6 months old.

Fish Crow