American Crow song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the American Crow, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

American Crows do not have a complex song in the traditional sense. Their vocalizations are primarily calls.

Calls

The most common and recognizable call is a loud, harsh 'caw-caw-caw'. They have a wide repertoire of calls, including alarm calls (short, rapid 'caws'), assembly calls (long, drawn-out 'caws'), begging calls from juveniles, and various clicks, rattles, and gurgles used in social interactions. Calls vary in pitch, rhythm, and intensity depending on the context.

When they vocalize

Vocalize year-round, but particularly active and vocal during the breeding season and when communicating within flocks or mobbing predators.

Explore the American Crow