Western Jackdaw vs Hooded Crow

Western Jackdaw

Coloeus monedula

Also known as: Eurasian Jackdaw, European Jackdaw, Jackdaw

How to recognise a western jackdaw?

General appearance

The Western Jackdaw is a stocky bird, somewhat smaller than a crow, measuring approximately 33 cm or 13 inches. It is primarily black, but features a distinctive grey nape. A standout feature is the bird's white or blue-white eyes. It has a large size, with a sharp contrast between the black crown and pale gray nape and typically displays a rounded, square-tipped tail and broad, fingered wings.

Male vs female

Western Jackdaws are sexually monomorphic, meaning males and females are similar to each other in size and colour. Both sexes share the same notable features, including the bold white or pale blue eyes, grey nape and predominantly black plumage.

Juvenile

Juvenile Western Jackdaws closely resemble adults but can be distinguished by their duller, more uniform plumage colouration. They also have dark eyes that turn pale only as they mature, making them easily distinguishable from adult Jackdaws with their distinctive white or pale bluish-white eyes.

Size

13.4 - 15.4 in/4.8 - 9.3 oz

Habitat

Primary habitat

The western jackdaw prefers woodland, coastal cliffs, old buildings and ruins in temperate regions across western Europe to western Asia.

Additional range

Unexpected environments include urban areas, attics, and steeples, making them flexible in adaptation.

Range Map

What do western jackdaws like to eat?

Natural diet

The Eurasian Jackdaw is an omnivore with a versatile diet that includes insects, other invertebrates, fruits, seeds, carrion, and garbage. Its diet varies based on habitat, food availability, and season. Jackdaws foraging in parks or pastures with short vegetation tend to feed on the ground, often in pairs or small flocks alongside larger Rooks. Some studies indicate a predominantly plant-based diet, while others show a preference for animal matter.

Bird feeders

At bird feeders, Eurasian Jackdaws may consume a range of items typically offered to wild birds. They are known to eat seeds, nuts, suet, and peanuts. Due to their adaptable nature, they may also feed on food scraps or any readily available edible material provided at feeders.

What does a western jackdaw sound like?

The western jackdaw (Corvus monedula) has a varied vocal repertoire characterized by short, sharp, and metallic-sounding calls. Its most common call is the distinctive "chak-chak" or "jack-jack," which serves as a social contact call. These birds are known for their ability to mimic sounds, although less prolifically than other corvids. The jackdaw's song is less melodic and more grating, consisting of a series of chattering notes and clicks. Their vocalizations play a critical role in maintaining social bonds within flocks and coordinating group activities.

Call

Audio by Joost van Bruggen

/ CC BY-SA 4.0

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Hooded Crow

Corvus cornix

Also known as: Hoodie, Scotch Crow, Danish Crow, Gray Crow

How to recognise a hooded crow?

General appearance

Meet the hooded crow! A dazzling avian species with an absolutely enchanting appearance. Recognizable by a dark grey body contrasted with a glossy black head, throat, wings, and tail. The hooded crow flaunts a gorgeous plumage that shines in varying hues under the sunlight. They're medium-sized birds, standing tall at around 48cm with a wingspan up to 100cm - impossible to miss in the wild!

Male vs female

Moving on to the tricky task of distinguishing between males and females- it's quite a challenge! You see, there are no visual differences between the sexes! Both male and female hooded crows exhibit the same majestic blend of grey and black plumage. In fact, the only surefire way to tell them apart is during the breeding season when only females will be seen incubating eggs.

Juvenile

Onto the adorable juveniles, which start out with a rather duller color palette. Their plumage lacks the striking glossy finish of the adults, appearing more sooty black than glossy. Juveniles also host blue eyes instead of the brown seen in adults. But don't fret, with time, they grow into their stunning adult colors and truly become a sight to behold!

Size

18.9 - 21.3 in/14.0 - 21.2 oz

Habitat

Primary habitat

The Hooded Crow mainly inhabits northern and eastern Europe, and parts of the Middle East. It prefers open and agricultural areas, and thrives in coastal regions.

Additional range

Although unusual, Hooded Crows can also be found in urban areas, adapting to live in parks and gardens.

Range Map

What do hooded crows like to eat?

Natural diet

The hooded crow is an omnivorous bird with a diverse diet. In its natural habitat, it feeds on small mammals, eggs, and chicks of birds, as well as various invertebrates like insects and worms. Additionally, it consumes fruits, seeds, and grains. Scavenging is another crucial part of its diet, often feeding on carrion and discarded food waste.

Bird feeders

At bird feeders, hooded crows are adaptable and will often consume a variety of offerings. They are attracted to suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Occasionally, they may consume bread scraps and other household leftovers made available by people. Their opportunistic nature allows them to exploit these anthropogenic food sources effectively.

What does a hooded crow sound like?

The hooded crow is known for its range of vocalizations, including caws, coos, and rattles. It primarily uses two distinct calls: the familiar “kraa” sound with various pitches and rhythms, typically used in territorial displays or to alert others, and a quieter “knocking” sound for close interactions. These birds do not have a melodious song, but rather a series of calls exchanged in a cawing dialogue. Other sounds include harsh screeches and mimicry of other bird species. Their vocal complexity is said to reflect their high level of intelligence.

Call

Audio by Dimitǎr Boevski

/ CC BY-SA 4.0

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Western Jackdaw

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Hooded Crow

Western Jackdaw

Coloeus monedula

Also known as: Eurasian Jackdaw, European Jackdaw, Jackdaw

General appearance

The Western Jackdaw is a stocky bird, somewhat smaller than a crow, measuring approximately 33 cm or 13 inches. It is primarily black, but features a distinctive grey nape. A standout feature is the bird's white or blue-white eyes. It has a large size, with a sharp contrast between the black crown and pale gray nape and typically displays a rounded, square-tipped tail and broad, fingered wings.

Male vs female

Western Jackdaws are sexually monomorphic, meaning males and females are similar to each other in size and colour. Both sexes share the same notable features, including the bold white or pale blue eyes, grey nape and predominantly black plumage.

Juvenile

Juvenile Western Jackdaws closely resemble adults but can be distinguished by their duller, more uniform plumage colouration. They also have dark eyes that turn pale only as they mature, making them easily distinguishable from adult Jackdaws with their distinctive white or pale bluish-white eyes.

Size

13.4 - 15.4 in/4.8 - 9.3 oz

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Hooded Crow

Corvus cornix

Also known as: Hoodie, Scotch Crow, Danish Crow, Gray Crow

General appearance

Meet the hooded crow! A dazzling avian species with an absolutely enchanting appearance. Recognizable by a dark grey body contrasted with a glossy black head, throat, wings, and tail. The hooded crow flaunts a gorgeous plumage that shines in varying hues under the sunlight. They're medium-sized birds, standing tall at around 48cm with a wingspan up to 100cm - impossible to miss in the wild!

Male vs female

Moving on to the tricky task of distinguishing between males and females- it's quite a challenge! You see, there are no visual differences between the sexes! Both male and female hooded crows exhibit the same majestic blend of grey and black plumage. In fact, the only surefire way to tell them apart is during the breeding season when only females will be seen incubating eggs.

Juvenile

Onto the adorable juveniles, which start out with a rather duller color palette. Their plumage lacks the striking glossy finish of the adults, appearing more sooty black than glossy. Juveniles also host blue eyes instead of the brown seen in adults. But don't fret, with time, they grow into their stunning adult colors and truly become a sight to behold!

Size

18.9 - 21.3 in/14.0 - 21.2 oz

There's more to learn about Hooded Crow

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How to tell the Western Jackdaw from the Hooded Crow

Visual differences

The Western Jackdaw is smaller than the Hooded Crow, measuring about 13 inches compared to the Hooded Crow's 19 inches. Jackdaws have predominantly black plumage with a distinctive grey nape and striking pale eyes. In contrast, Hooded Crows display a dark grey body with a glossy black head, throat, wings, and tail, lacking the Jackdaw's nape and eye coloration. Jackdaws are stockier with a rounded tail and broad wings, while Hooded Crows are larger with a more prominent presence and glossy plumage.

Key differences and behavior

The Western Jackdaw and Hooded Crow exhibit distinct behaviors and habitat preferences. Jackdaws, social and highly adaptable, thrive in varied environments from urban areas to coastal cliffs, foraging on a diet of insects, fruits, and seeds. Known for life-long pair bonds, they engage in mutual preening and synchronized flight in courtship. They build nests in crevices and urban structures. Conversely, Hooded Crows inhabit open and agricultural landscapes, often near coasts. They showcase playful courtship displays with aerial acrobatics. Their diet extends to scavenging small mammals and carrion, reflecting their resourceful nature. Hooded Crows build nests in tall trees or cliffs. Jackdaws are smaller (13 inches, up to 9.3 oz) compared to the Hooded Crow (19 inches, 21.2 oz), and exhibit devoted partnerships, while Hooded Crows demonstrate more opportunistic feeding and habitat use. Together, these features provide field observers key insights into their differing ecological roles.