Carrion crow
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Large bird (approximately 50 cm or 19.5 in) that is usually confused physically with the Common Raven. Black plumage in general. Back with metallic reflections, especially on the head and wings. Dark and more homogeneous underparts. Sturdy legs and bill. Shorter, wider and rounder wings than those of the raven. Short tail and almost straight edged (the raven has it in the shape of a wedge). Flight with more constant flaps.
Where it lives
Species with preference for open areas with scattered trees, pastures, farmlands and groves. However, it is very versatile and adaptable, so it can occupy from coasts to high mountain areas.
How it lives
Vagrant or dispersive species in Malaga. Nest in trees. It makes one annual laying of 3 to 6 eggs from March. Omnivorous feeding, the Carrion Crow captures from small invertebrates to chicks of birds and small vertebrates, especially rodents. It consumes also fruit, grain, seeds and vegetables.
Where it can be seen in Malaga
Very rare species in Malaga. Some individuals have been observed long ago in the region of Guadalhorce and more recently in the northeastern region of the province. The nearest populations are in Granada, so the municipalities near the limits with this province are in principle more favourable places to observe it, although with a fairly low probability.
Curious facts
Bird with great intelligence, like most corvids. Very good strategists, especially when it comes to hunting, and faithful couple for life. It is one of the few species parasitized by cuckoos that benefit from them. Cuckoo chicks do not expel the rest of the crow's eggs from the nest and emit a chemical secretion that scares off predators and also protects their adoptive siblings. Crows have adapted to be parasitized in a way that compensates for the nests with cuckoo eggs with greater laying of their own eggs. Thus, these nests are more successful than those that are not parasitized.