Common throughout Michigan, this large, 17 to 20 inch bird's entire body is blue black, tending to appear purplish black in sunlight. Their straight and narrow tail distinguishes them from Common Ravens, that have a wedge-shaped tail. Crows prefer to build lined stick nests or platforms in trees, often in colonies. Eggs number four to six and are greenish. Crows are very gregarious, sociable birds, sometimes forming large flocks numbering into the hundreds.

Crows are omnivorous and will eat carrion, rodents, young birds, reptiles and vegetation, including garden and farm crops. Crows and ravens are wary of humans or other threats and will "explode" out of a roosting site in a burst of black feathers when startled. Many will challenge hawks or owls who venture into their nesting area.

Ravens and crows are superb fliers. Their aerial displays are a delight to watch and are just one of the natural wonders that await you when you get out to visit Michigan's natural heritage.