Cape Crow song and calls

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

Song

The Cape Crow's song is not a true melodic song like passerines, but rather a series of varied caws, croaks, and guttural notes, often interspersed with mimicry. It's more of an elaborate vocal display than a song.

Calls

The most common call is a distinctive, rather nasal 'kraaaak' or 'kaaaarrrr' which is often drawn out and somewhat higher pitched than other crows. They also utter a variety of softer 'kruk-kruk' notes, rattles, and guttural 'grrrr' calls. Alarm calls are sharper and more urgent.

When they vocalize

Vocalizes year-round, but calls are most frequent and varied during the breeding season as pairs communicate and defend territory.

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