How to tell the difference between a Crow and a Raven
This covers the difference between a Common Raven and a Carrion Crow in the UK, but will be the same species all over the world. Not just the physical size difference between a Raven and a Crow, but the different calls the Raven has compared to the Crow.
The beak
Crow (top) and Raven (bottom) comparing the beak shape and sizes.
Image source: https://corvidresearch.blog/
The most obvious difference is the beak. The Crow’s beak is long and slender with a slight point at the end. The Raven’s beak is long and very chunky, like a butchers knife. It also has long bristles that cover the nostril and covers half of the beak.
The size
The size of the Raven is similar to a buzzard. While the Crow is the size of a hawk.
The general body size of the Raven is larger and more detailed, while the Crow is very slender.
The Raven is physically bigger in every way compared to a Crow. When you are looking at the bird and think “That’s big, but could it be bigger” then you are looking at a Crow. When you think that bird is enormous then definitely a Raven! Ravens are huge!
The tail
The Ravens tail is long and diamond shaped.
While the Raven and Crow tails are similar when they are fanned out, it’s best to look for when the tail is closed. You can see in the image above how long and diamond shaped it is. The two short feathers either side help with that shape.
The beard
Raven’s have large feathered beards used for displaying and calls.
While Crows also have feathers under their chin, they do not stand out or move quite like a Raven’s does. They stick out when calling but the Raven’s neck is a lot longer. So look out for this when the bird is making noises.
