Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This species has an extremely large range and the population size is extremely large, hence does not approach threatened thresholds for the range or population size criteria. The population trend appears to be stable, and hence the species does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population trend criterion. For these reasons the species is evaluated as Least Concern.
Population justification
In Europe, the total population size is estimated at 16,200,000-27,500,000 mature individuals, with 8,140,000-13,800,000 breeding pairs (BirdLife International 2021), and comprises approximately 30% of the species' global range, so a very preliminary estimate of the global population size is between 54,000,000-91,700,000 mature individuals, although further validation of this estimate is desirable. In Europe, the species' population is considered to have remained relatively stable over three generations (22.23 years) (BirdLife International 2021). Based on these data, and the proportion of the species' global range that this region holds, the global population size is considered to be stable over three generations.
Trend justification
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The species uses a wide variety of open country, preferably with at least scattered trees (Madge 2009). It is only really absent from dense forests and is found in most other habitats (Hagemeijer and Blair 1997). It prefers mixed farmland, parks and gardens, also forest clearings, and equally at home on moorland and on inshore islands, coastal cliffs and estuarine flats. It breeds from late March in western Europe, April in south-east Russia and central Asia and late May or early June in the far north of the range (Madge 2009). It forms a long-term monogamous pair-bond. Both sexes build the nest which is a rather large structure based on sticks and twigs, often mixed with rabbit (Oryctolagus) bones or wire and heather (Ericaceae) twigs. Mud pushed into base gives a solid foundation and a deep cup is thickly lined with soft materials such as wool, animal fur, soft grasses, feathers and paper. Usually it is built in the crown of a tall tree but in more open habitats electricity pylons are used, whilst on exposed coasts a cliff ledge or stunted shrub may be used and some nests are built on old buildings, in reedbeds, or even on the ground. Clutch size is typically four eggs. The species is omnivorous, but it is mainly a carnivorous scavenger. The diet varies according to local habitats, but usually includes invertebrates, especially earthworms (Lumbricidae), small mammals, frogs, bird eggs and nestlings, as well as carrion. In addition, small amounts of grain and weed seeds are taken. The species is resident, although some populations do migrate (Madge 2009).
Historically this species has been persecuted by gamekeepers and farmers because of its habit of raiding nests; however gamekeeper activity has reduced since the 1920s allowing it to recover (Madge 2009).
Conservation Actions Underway
EU Birds Directive Annex II. There are currently no known conservation measures for this species within Europe.
Conservation Actions Proposed
No conservation measures are currently required for this species within Europe.
Text account compilers
Martin, R., Rutherford, C.A.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Carrion Crow Corvus corone. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/carrion-crow-corvus-corone on 23/12/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 23/12/2024.