Head out for corvids and conifers, or stay in to dream big for the new year.
AS THE WINTER CHILL SETS IN, AMERICAN Crows start congregating. A crowd of corvids can seem intimidating, even ominous. And for those who live close to a roost, the birds can be a noisy and messy nuisance.
But take a closer look, and you might start to think differently. “Crows are really, really social,” says Anne B. Clark, a behavioral ecologist at Binghamton University. Crows form sophisticated multigenerational societies, with family units of up to 15 birds including a breeding pair, mischievous one-year-olds, older siblings, and extended relatives. Together they find food, defend their territory, and raise young. There are many delights for the aspiring crow-watcher, as every caw, flap, and feather ruffle reveals…
