In North America, when you spot a "crow" or "raven," you’re likely looking at one of these four species: the American Crow, Fish Crow, Common Raven, or Chihuahuan Raven. If you are very lucky, it could be a Tamaulipas Crow. If you are in Hawaiian AND you are very lucky, it even could be a Hawaiian Crow, which is endemic to Hawaii.

Both crows and ravens belong to the genus Corvus within the family Corvidae. In simple terms, "raven" typically refers to larger species (such as the Common Raven), while "crow" generally refers to smaller ones (like the American Crow or Fish Crow).

American Crow is a common and highly adaptable corvid found throughout most of North America. It is entirely black with a stout bill and a distinctive, harsh "caw-caw" call.You can refer to our previous article for a detailed introduction to crow identification techniques./blogs/news/ravens-in-literature-myth-and-legend

Tamaulipas Crow is a rare visitor to the United States, primarily found in northeastern Mexico. Distinguishing between different corvid species can be quite challenging. Historically, the Tamaulipas Crow was mixed together with the Sinaloa Crow, another corvid species in Mexico. It was only through recent genetic research that the Tamaulipas Crow was recognized as a species based on genetic evidence. It is smaller and slimmer than the American Crow, with a more tapered bill and faster wingbeats. Its call is described as low-pitched, hoarse, and resembling the soft croaking of a frog.

Hawaiian Crow, or 'Alalā, is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. They are known for its remarkable intelligence and complex vocalizations.

The Common Raven is the largest of its kind in North America, making it quite difficult to confuse with its smaller corvid cousins. It is a master of aerial acrobatics and known for its deep, resonant "croak."

You can easily distinguish certain other black birds from corvids because they are known for their melodic calls. Grackles, blackbirds, and cowbirds all belong to the family Icteridae, and they look quite different from corvids. So, how do you tell these Icteridae cousins apart?

Additionally, as you gain more birdwatching experience, you'll become familiar with their body shapes. The Grackles are larger, with a long, "V"-shaped tail and feathers showing a metallic sheen. Although often described as "black birds," their plumage actually glitter purple, blue, or bronze under bright light.

Blackbirds are medium-sized, and there are noticeable color differences between males and females. When you see a black bird and confirm its call and shape match a Blackbird, it is likely an adult male. Juvenile and female Blackbirds, in contrast, are mostly brown with streaks.

Among the blackbirds you can see in the United States, the Rusty Blackbird and Brewer's Blackbird are true, all-black "blackbirds". They are primarily distinguished by eye color, plumage iridescence, and habitat preference.The Rusty Blackbird has pale yellow eyes that are very striking. During the non-breeding season (fall and winter), the male's body is covered with distinct rusty brown edges on its feathers, giving it a scaled appearance.

Compared to the other two, the Cowbird is the smallest and gives a compact, sturdy impression. Three species of cowbirds can be found in the United States. The Bronzed Cowbird and the Shiny Cowbird can be confusing and difficult to distinguish due to their almost entirely black plumage. In contrast, the Brown-headed Cowbird, as its name suggests, is easily recognizable by the brown feathers on its head.