RSPB Spotlight Crows

Crows are among Britain's most familiar and abundant birds, with eight species belonging to the Corvidae family. They have been deeply intertwined in our lives and culture since prehistoric times, but have often been reviled as scavengers, crop raiders, and jewelry thieves. In Spotlight Crows, Mike Unwin introduces the UK's eight corvid species, outlining their fascinating natural history and offering essential identification tips. He also explores the mythology and folklore that have embedded these remarkable birds so deeply in our culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Crows, a diverse group of birds found in Britain, have garnered both familiarity and controversy. Belonging to the Corvidae family, these eight species have been a part of human lives and culture since ancient times. Despite their reputation as scavengers, crop raiders, and jewelry thieves, crows possess remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness that have contributed to their success and shed light on animal behavior. In his book "Spotlight Crows," Mike Unwin delves into the natural history, identification tips, mythology, and folklore surrounding these fascinating birds. Through captivating color photography and informative expert text, the Spotlight series offers readers an insightful glimpse into the lives and behavior of these iconic animals.

Crows, with their distinctive black plumage and intelligence, have long been a subject of fascination and debate. While some view them as pests or scavengers, others recognize their remarkable abilities. Crows are highly social birds, living in large flocks and displaying complex social behaviors. They are known for their problem-solving skills, memory, and ability to adapt to changing environments.

One of the most notable characteristics of crows is their intelligence. They have been observed using tools, solving puzzles, and even exhibiting self-awareness. They have a long memory, able to remember faces and locations for years. Crows are also known for their adaptability, able to thrive in a wide range of habitats, from urban areas to forests.

Crows are also skilled scavengers and predators, feeding on a variety of foods, including insects, small animals, and even fruits and seeds. They are known to be particularly adept at scavenging carrion, and have been observed working together to locate and consume food. Crows are also known to be quite vocal, with a wide range of calls and songs used for communication and socialization.

Despite their reputation as pests, crows play an important role in ecosystems. They help control pest populations, disperse seeds, and recycle nutrients. They are also important indicators of environmental health, as their presence can indicate changes in the ecosystem.

In addition to their ecological significance, crows have also been deeply intertwined in human culture and mythology. They have been featured in literature, art, and folklore throughout history, often symbolizing intelligence, wisdom, and even death. In some cultures, crows are considered sacred or even messengers of the gods.

Despite their many positive qualities, crows have also faced challenges. They are often targeted by humans for their scavenging habits, and their populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect and preserve these remarkable birds.

In conclusion, crows are a fascinating and complex group of birds that have been a part of human lives and culture for thousands of years. Despite their reputation as pests, they possess remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness that have contributed to their success and shed light on animal behavior. Crows play an important role in ecosystems, and their cultural significance is undeniable. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect and preserve these remarkable birds for future generations.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 148 x 209 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472971777