Best time to see: all year

Key facts

Smallest crow, with a reputation as a robber

Habitat: old buildings or trees, quarry faces

Widespread resident

Recognition

Black plumage relieved only by grey nape, rounded wings; 32–34 cm

Often feed alongside rooks or starlings in fields, but may also be seen in small flocks on their own Play

Feeds on insects, seeds, grain, fruit; sometimes eggs and young of other birds, small mammals, carrion

Lifecycle

Elaborate courtship involving bowing and displays by the male

Nest is an untidy pile of sticks lined with wool or hair, in a hole or crevice in tree, rock or building, sometimes in chimneys

One brood April to May; 3–6 light blue eggs, spotted brown