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Crow vs. Raven - What’s the Difference?

3. Size

Common Raven Common Raven - Photo: Chrispo/stock.adobe.com

Do ravens, crows, and jackdaws differ in size? Yes, quite significantly. The common raven is the largest in the "Corvus" family, measuring 21-26 inches (67 cm) and it is almost twice the size of the American crow. The jackdaw is the smallest, reaching only up to 13-15 inches (39 cm). Of course, it can be challenging to gauge this from a distance. Regular observation and comparison are the best ways to help. 

We aim to assist you with some comparisons. The common raven is roughly the size of the diameter of a medium-sized car (not an SUV). The size of the hooded crow can be compared to that of a carry-on suitcase. The body length of the carrion crow and the hooded crow is about the same as that of a baking tray (long side). The jackdaw is slightly larger than a standing ring binder.


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Size of the Jackdaw (Corvus monedula):

13-15 inches (34-39 cm)

Size of the Jackdaw Size of the Jackdaw - Photo: Per Grunditz/stock.adobe.com

Size of the Rook (Corvus frugilegus):

17-18 inches (44-46 cm)

Size of the Rook Size of the Rook - Photo: schankz/stock.adobe.com

Size of the Carrion Crow (Corvus corone):

19-20 inches (48-52 cm)

Size of the Carrion Crow Size of the Carrion Crow - Photo: Lothar Lenz/stock.adobe.com

Size of the American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos):

16-20 inches (40-50 cm)

Size of the American Crow Size of the American Crow - Photo: Melissa McMasters from Memphis, TN, United States [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Size of the Hooded Crow (Corvus cornix):

21-26 inches (54-67 cm)

Size of the Hooded Crow Size of the Hooded Crow - Photo: Piotr Krzeslak/stock.adobe.com


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Size of the Common Raven (Corvus corax):

Black, large, and robust, slightly curved

Size of the Common Raven Size of the Common Raven - Photo: Piotr Krzeslak/stock.adobe.com