How to identify the Murkrow

To correctly identify the Murkrow (Corvus Pokemonis), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

45-55 cm

Wingspan

75-90 cm

Weight

200-300 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adult Murkrows display a uniform, iridescent black plumage that shimmers with purple and blue hues under direct light. The feathers are sleek and tightly packed. A prominent, spiky crest adorns the head, giving it a distinctive silhouette. The tail is relatively long and slightly forked.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   The beak is robust, conical, and sharply pointed, adapted for a varied diet. It is typically dark grey to black, with a slight downward curve at the tip.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Eyes are bright red, providing a striking contrast against the dark plumage and aiding in low-light vision.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Legs and feet are dark grey to black, scaly, and strong, equipped with sharp talons for perching and manipulating food.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Key features include the prominent, spiky crest on the head, the bright red eyes, and the slightly forked tail. Its overall sleek, dark appearance with iridescent sheens is also characteristic.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have a duller, less iridescent black plumage compared to adults. Their crest is less developed, appearing as a series of short, spiky feathers rather than a distinct, prominent structure. Eye color may be a duller red or even dark brown, gradually intensifying with age.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage are observed. The iridescent sheen may appear more pronounced during breeding season due to increased preening and feather condition.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Sexual dimorphism is minimal. Males tend to be slightly larger and may have a more pronounced crest, but these differences are not reliably discernible in the field.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Medium-sized crow with a sleek body, prominent head crest, and a relatively long, slightly forked tail.
• Plumage. Uniform glossy black with iridescent purple and blue sheens, especially visible in good light.
• Head Features. Distinctive spiky crest on the head and bright red eyes are key identifiers. The beak is strong and pointed.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its harsh 'kraa-kraa' calls, sharp 'kree-kree' alarm, and the characteristic 'murk-murk' cackle, often heard at dusk or night.
• Behavior. Observe its crepuscular/nocturnal activity, agile flight, and tendency to form communal roosts. Its opportunistic foraging behavior is also characteristic.

Explore the Murkrow