Fish Crow

Fish Crow, Corvus ossifragus  (identified by call)

Fish Crows can be found within the southeastern portions of the United States. Although within the same range and with similar appearance to the American crow, the Fish crows are completely difference species with closer genetic ties (pdf) to the Palm crow and Jamaican crow than the American crow. Compared to the American crow, the Fish crow is smaller, shorter, and glossier. In addition, Fish crows prefer wetlands, marshes, lakes, rivers, and coastal habitats; however, when it comes to field identification, the nasal call is best used for differentiation. They are omnivorous with a diet that can include carrion, crayfish, insects, berries, seeds, nuts, eggs, and garbage. While some flocks migrate, the majority of Fish crows are year round residents. Their population continually increases and is spreading north and west.