American Crows can be found anywhere in the province, but are not common in northern boreal forests where their niche is occupied by ravens. In fall, crows form large aggregations called 'murders'. These groups migrate out of the province and remain in large groups for the winter. The crows return in smaller groups very early in spring. Some crows in southern Alberta do not migrate.
These widespread black birds are common along forest edges, grasslands and parklands as well as cities. As long as there are suitable nest-building trees, it seems that crows can make a livelihood.
Like all corvids, American Crows are omnivores and will eat such items as carrion, food scraps, seeds, fruit, insects, eggs and other birds' nestlings. They will come to feeders, especially those supplying whole peanuts.
A mated pair builds their nest together very high in a treetop. This bulky construction of branches and twigs is supplemented with bark shreds and lined with soft materials such as grass, moss or man-made materials. Four or five eggs are laid and incubated for 18 days. The young are fledged about five weeks after hatching.
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Where to find American Crows in Alberta
American Crows are common in the Weaselhead/Glenmore area from April through October. They are rare to uncommon during the winter. Brent Johner
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PAUL FINKLEMAN
for serving as the society's ADOPT-A-PARK COORDINATOR this year
BRENT JOHNER
for serving 9 consecutive years on the society's Board