What is a Male Crow Called? Rook!
A male crow is called a “rook.”
Quick Overview
- The term “rook” is specifically used to refer to adult, male crows.
- This term is derived from the species of crow known as the “rook,” which is mainly found in Europe and Asia.
- However, it has become common to use this term to refer to any male crow, regardless of its exact species.
In nature, differentiating between a male and female crow can be quite challenging due to their similar physical appearance. However, scientists and bird enthusiasts have coined specific terminologies for these birds.
Among them, a “rook” refers to a mature male crow. Originating from the rook species native to Europe and Asia, this has since been generalized across various types of crows globally.
So next time you spot a crow and wonder about its gender, just remember – if it’s an adult and male, it’s called a rook!

The Terminology of Male Crows
If you have come across a group of these black-feathered birds, you might be wondering about the correct term for a male crow.
The answer is simple. A male crow is simply called a crow. However, there are still other important terms and classifications that can help you identify and understand the male crow better.
Introduction To The Terminology Of Male Crow
The male crow is a black-feathered bird belonging to the corvus genus. They are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and social behavior.
The male crows are widely distributed across north america, europe, and asia, and have a distinct appearance and sound.
Male Crow Terminology And Classification
Here are some important terms and classifications that can help you understand the male crow better:
- Family: Corvidae
- Genus: Corvus
- Species: Corvus brachyrhynchos (american crow), corvus corone (european crow), corvus macrorhynchos (large-billed crow)
- Juvenile male crow: Has blue eyes and a purplish-blue tint on its feathers
- Adult male crow: Has black eyes and glossy black feathers.
Knowing these terms will help you recognize and learn more about the male crow and their behavior.
Keep in mind that they are intelligent and adaptive birds, often found in diverse habitats such as forests, fields, urban areas, and agricultural landscapes.
Understanding their terminology and classification can help you appreciate their unique personality and contribution to the ecosystem.
Male Crow Species
Male crows, one of the most intelligent birds in the world, have been known to exhibit exceptional problem-solving skills, use tools, and recognize individual human faces.
As with many animals, the terminology with which we refer to them is crucial. So, here’s a rundown of male crows, their species, and their identifying characteristics.
Overview Of Male Crow Species
Male crows belong to the genus corvus, which comprises more than 45 species worldwide, including the common raven. The species is further divided into groups based on coloring, bill shape, and regionality.
Here are some of the most common types of male crow:
- American crow (corvus brachyrhynchos): This is one of the most common and widespread crow species, primarily found throughout north america. It’s all black with a thick bill and an average length of the body of about 17 inches.
- Hooded crow (corvus cornix): A eurasian bird that looks similar to the carrion crow. It has a black plumage with greyish coloring on the neck, thighs, and wings. The length of the body is around 19 inches.
- Carrion crow (corvus corone): This species is black with a slight green or purple sheen on the feathers and a relatively shorter bill than other crow species. It’s prevalent across europe and eastern asia, with a body length of around 20 inches.
- Northwestern crow (corvus caurinus): This species resides in coastal regions of western north america from alaska to oregon. It’s all black, with a square-shaped tail and a slightly shorter bill than the american crow.
Rare And Endangered Male Crow
While the majority of male crow species have a stable population, some species are rare or endangered.
Here are some of them:
- Mariana crow (corvus kubaryi): Endemic to the island of guam, this species is critically endangered due to habitat loss and predation by the brown tree snake. It has a dark plumage with a slightly curved bill and an average body length of around 15 inches.
- Hawaiian crow (corvus hawaiiensis): Also known as ‘alalā, this species is extinct in the wild, with just a few individuals bred in captivity. It’s black with slightly curved bills and ranges from 16 to 19 inches.
- White-necked crow (corvus leucognaphalus): Endemic to the island of hispaniola, this species is characterized by a black plumage with a noticeable white patch on the back of the neck. It has a curved bill and an average length of around 22 inches.
- Tamaulipas crow (corvus imparatus): This species is primarily found in northeastern mexico and is classified as endangered due to habitat loss and fragmentation. It has black plumage with distinctive white eyes and a relatively short bill.
Regional Differences In Male Crow Species
Male crow species exhibit regional variations in color, size, and bill shape.
For instance:
- Indian jungle crow (corvus culminatus) resembles the house crow (corvus splendens) but has a larger bill and paler upperparts.
- Fish crow (corvus ossifragus), prevalent in southeastern parts of north america, has a shorter bill and smaller body size than the american crow.
- Pied crow (corvus albus), native to sub-saharan africa, has a black and white plumage, a heavier and more robust bill, and a longer tail than the common raven.
Male crow species are a diverse group of birds with distinct physical features and regional distribution.
Identifying them correctly can help us appreciate their significance in the natural world and protect them effectively.
Male Crow Characteristics
Male crows are fascinating birds with a unique set of characteristics that sets them apart from other birds. They are known for their intelligence, problem-solving ability, and sharp senses.
Physical Characteristics Of Male Crow
Body Shape And Size
- Male crows are larger than females. They weigh around 400-500 grams and have a wingspan of 85-100 cm.
- Their feathers are sleek and smooth.
- They have a distinctive barrel-shaped body with a short neck and a squared tail.
Feather And Plumage
- The feathers of male crows are black, glossy, and iridescent.
- The plumage is smooth and unbroken, with a slight sheen.
Color And Markings
- The eyes of male crows are a distinguishing feature. They are black and almond-shaped.
- Their beaks are thick and black, curved at the end.
- They have short, strong legs with black feet and talons.
- Male crows have no significant markings.
Behavioral Characteristics Of Male Crow
Communication And Social Behavior
- Crows are intelligent birds that use a variety of vocalizations to communicate with each other. They can imitate the sounds of other birds and animals.
- Male crows are highly social and form close-knit groups with their families and mates. They work together to raise their young and protect their territory.
Feeding And Foraging Habits
- Crows are omnivorous and eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, grains, insects, and small animals.
- They are opportunistic feeders and can adapt to different environments and food sources easily.
- Crows have strong beaks that they use to open nuts, dig for insects and break open hard-shelled prey.
Mating Habits And Reproduction
- Male crows are monogamous and form lifelong bonds with their mates. They work together to build their nest, incubate eggs, and raise their young.
- Breeding season begins in early spring, where male crows put on a courtship display by showcasing their intelligence and problem-solving skills.
- Females typically lay between 1-6 eggs, and both parents share the responsibility of incubation. The chicks hatch after about 18 days and leave the nest around 30-40 days of age.
Male crows are fascinating birds with unique physical and behavioral characteristics that make them stand out from other birds.
They are intelligent problem solvers with excellent communication and social skills that help them thrive in different environments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s important to clarify that male crows are not called “rook” or “cocks.” While these terms are used for male chickens, male crows are simply referred to as “crows.”
The misconception may arise from confusion with other bird species, but in the context of crows, there is no specific term for males other than “crow.”
Male crows play an essential role in the population by mating with females and protecting their offspring.
As human development has encroached on their habitats, it is up to us to protect these birds and their environments.
We have much to learn from these fascinating birds and their intriguing behaviors. By respecting them and their habitats, we can help ensure their continued existence for generations to come.