Being called a birdbrain is not usually considered a complement. Its synonyms, featherbrain or airhead, are not any better.
This mild pejorative dates back to the 1600’s, according to some lexicologists, and is the result of the general population perceiving all avian species as not very intelligent. Domestic birds stayed pinned up and provided eggs and meat, and wild birds were, for the most part, either game or pests.
Either way it did not appear much intellectual effort was put in by these feathery fowls. Centuries and science would change the understanding of how smart these “dumb” animals really are.
Aside from the raptors (eagles, hawks and falcons), the one species which was recognized early on for its craftiness was the crow. Its astute situational awareness and quick reaction to perceived threats is essential for survival in the wild.
Crows are usually seen as they hunt for their next meal. Not particularly picky about the source or type of food, they have adapted well to human populations and will devour leftovers dropped by people.
This member of the Corvus genus has a less than stellar reputation with farmers and gardeners. Reflecting that perception, a group of these birds is known as a “murder of crows”.
The crows seen in panhandle Florida are known as American Crows. Corvus brachyrhynchos, as they are biologically known, are a moderately large black bird capable of reaching 20 inches in length. Nearly half the body length is tail.
While these crows are black birds, they are not the species known as blackbirds. Those are grackles, and the males of that species are really a very dark purple.
Wingspan may reach over a yard, giving this agile bird the ability to make quick getaways when the need arises. Life expectancy in the wild is about a decade.
This species is found across the U.S., Canada and northern Mexico. In addition to agricultural lands, it has adapted well to urban and suburban environments.
The American Crow is not a picky eater. Its omnivorous appetite allows it to adapt to whatever the environment provides.
Nesting season for crows begins early. April is the norm in north Florida, but further north May is the month that nests will be occupied.
Nests are located in large trees when the region is heavily forested. In regions where trees are not as common, large bushes will be used, and very rarely nests will be on the ground.
Four to six eggs are incubated in the nest and flying lessons begin at about five weeks of age. Crow nests are subject to raids from snakes, raccoons and other native predators.
Ornithologists have noted the different calls crows use in their interactions with each other and the environment. Working in groups, they distract adversaries and steal food.
Much of this small group activity is by birds within a family unit. Adults are monogamous and hatchlings stay in the family for about two years.
A number of factors are used to determine this species’ intelligence. It has been noted that the ratio of brain weight to body weight in crows is approximately the same as humans.
No doubt the “Darwin Effect” which removes underachievers helps American Crows reach an intelligence pinnacle. Still there are other birds which have been evaluated to have more brain power.
One is the chicken. It is unfortunate, at least for the chickens, that they taste so good.
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