Crows, jackdaws, starlings
Ravens and crows together form the genus Corvus in the crow family (Corvidae). The larger members are called "ravens," the smaller ones "crows." In Europe, the common raven, carrion crow, hooded crow, rook, and jackdaw (also called common crow) are found.
Intelligence of Crows:
According to numerous studies, crows are considered the most intelligent birds. They can plan complex actions in advance, demonstrate impressive memory skills when hiding food, and are capable of empathy. They are able to make tools from wire or natural materials, cleverly use traffic to crack nuts, and pass on their knowledge to other crows. A remarkable characteristic is their ability for mirror self-recognition, a feat that many mammals considered intelligent cannot achieve.
Problems with crows and jackdaws:
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Crows can damage fields and harvests, pluck seeds from agricultural land, or peck at ripe fruits and vegetables.
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The accumulation of crow droppings can cause hygiene problems in urban areas and in industry.
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Crows can peck holes in roofs, tear out seals, and heavily foul vehicles with droppings, which can lead to damage.
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Jackdaws tend to nest in buildings, halls, church towers, and other structures. This can lead to soiling, noise pollution, and potential damage to buildings.
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Jackdaw nests can be immensely large and pose a high fire risk in technical facilities, such as in the chemical industry.
Problems with starlings:
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Starlings causeagricultural damage to fruit trees and grapevines, which can lead to significant economic losses.
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Starlings can accumulate nesting material in building ventilation systems, which can lead to blockages and damage.
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Starlings can contaminate feed in livestock farming and reduce milk quality through germs in their droppings.
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Starlings can transmit pathogens such as salmonella, especially when they live in large groups and share food sources.
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Swarms of starlings can pose a danger to air traffic, as they can get sucked into aircraft engines.
In all these cases, the deterrence or regulation of crow, jackdaw or starling populations may be necessary to minimize certain problems.
Rook (Corvus frugilegus) (G)
As a migratory and resident bird, it occurs throughout Europe. It is recognizable by its steep forehead and the grey, unfeathered base of its bill, which contrasts sharply with its glossy blue-black plumage. The bulbous, greyish bill appears long and pointed with a uniform curve. As a social species, the rook is very vocal. Even the young and nestlings call very loudly. They are omnivorous and nest in colonies. They breed only once a year, laying 4 to 6 eggs, and are protected year-round.
Carrion crow (Corvus corone)
The black carrion crow is found in Germany southwest of the Elbe River. Its plumage has a bluish sheen, it is about 47 cm long, and its black beak is thick and curved. Unlike the rook, its face is feathered. It nests in tall trees and raises 4 to 6 young. Carrion crows are also known as carrion crows and are omnivorous. Outside the breeding season, they fly in large flocks to their roosting trees at dusk.
Hooded crow (Corvus cornix)
The grey-black hooded crow is found northeast of the Elbe River. It is a subspecies of the carrion crow. The hooded crow has a grey body with black wings, tail feathers, and a black head. Hybrid forms of carrion and hooded crows can also occur. It has a wingspan of 1 meter. Crows can live up to 70 years. They forage on the ground. Their breeding behavior is similar to that of the carrion crow.
Common Raven (Corvus corax) (G)
It is black, up to 67 cm long, and with a wingspan of 130 cm, about the size of a buzzard. The plumage of ravens has a shimmering metallic sheen of green, blue, and violet. Its strong beak and legs are also black. They are territorial and live in forests, semi-open landscapes, on steep coasts, in mountains, and near cities.
Jackdaw (Corvus monedula) (G)
It is a sociable corvid, very intelligent, and found throughout Europe. The jackdaw's plumage is black and grey. The nape and cheeks are light grey, the face and forehead black, and the eyes white to light blue. It incubates 4 to 6 eggs from April to June.
Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)
Outside the breeding season, starlings live in large flocks. Their non-breeding plumage is black with white spots. Starlings incorporate animal sounds into their song. They are only 19 to 22 cm long and build their nests in cavities.
They mostly feed on insects and fruit. Although they are migratory birds, some starlings overwinter here.