What’s the Key Difference between a Raven and a Crow? Explained

Both ravens and crows are botanically part of the kingdom Animalia. The birds are pretty much identical in terms of their scientific classification and physical characteristics. Then what’s the main difference between a raven and a crow? How can you tell two large glossy black birds apart from one another? 

While a raven vs crow debate can be resolved through observing some specific physical and behavioral clues note that both birds are intelligent corvids of the same Corvus family. 

But hereonwards we will mainly learn about the key differences between a crow and a raven to enrich our understanding of the Animalia kingdom. 

What’s the Key Difference between a Raven and a Crow?

The easiest way to distinguish these two birds is by their scales especially around their necks. Ravens are comparatively large solitary creatures about the size of a red-tailed hawk while crows are smaller and highly social birds that travel in large groups, which we call a murder. 

But in case a raven or a crow is too far away to judge in terms of size then look at their tail and throat.

Raven vs Crow: Behavior and Flight Clues

Pay close attention to how both birds move through the sky. Ravens love the wind unlike crows. They frequently soar high in the sky and perform mid air flips with ease. 

But crows on the other hand rarely glide. They prefer to flap their wings in a certain rhythm from destination to destination.

You can also choose to listen very closely to their voices. A crow will most likely greet the neighborhood with a sharp yet familiar caw-caw. A raven will communicate using a deep croak that might sound like it belongs in a fantasy movie.