Watercolor portrait of Fish Crow (Corvus ossifragus)

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus
Year-round in the Southeast Found primarily in the southeastern and… Common Primary Call

Learn to identify the Fish Crow by ear. Master the "uh-uh" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“uh-uh”

What the Fish Crow sounds like

Slightly smaller than an American Crow (Fish Crow averages 14–15 inches in length, versus 17–20 inches for American Crow). Size difference can be hard to judge unless side by side.

“uh-uh”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:The Fish Crow's signature call is a short, nasal two-note caw that sounds like 'uh-uh' or 'ah-ah', as if the bird is saying 'no'. This call is higher-pitched and more nasal than the full-throated "caw" of an American Crow. Often the second syllable is lower in pitch than the first. They will repeat this double call throughout the day, and it's the most reliable way to identify the species. Often written as “uh-uh”.
Don't confuse with:The American Crow — larger overall and more widespread in various habitats. visually, american crows and fish crows are extremely hard to differentiate; however, american crows typically have a deeper, less nasal voice. the american crow's typical call is a strong, full "caw caw", usually given in a series of 3–5 caws. fish crow's voice is a much more nasal "uh-uh". if you hear a clear, ringing caw, it's an american crow. behaviorally, american crows forage in more upland areas (fields, landfills, etc.) as well as coasts, whereas fish crows are more restricted to shorelines and river edges (though this is not absolute).

Lessons featuring the Fish Crow

Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Fish Crow's sounds in this interactive in-app lesson.

Sidewalk Squad lesson habitat
Sidewalk Squad
Tier 2 · Around the Block
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Where you'll hear it

Found primarily in the southeastern and eastern United States, especially near coastal areas, rivers, and wetlands. Its association with water gives it its name.

Form flocks and may join communal roosts in winter; pair off and localize around nesting areas in breeding season.

Similar species

American Crow

Larger overall and more widespread in various habitats. Visually, American Crows and Fish Crows are extremely hard to differentiate; however, American Crows typically have a deeper, less nasal voice. The American Crow's typical call is a strong, full "caw caw", usually given in a series of 3–5 caws. Fish Crow's voice is a much more nasal "uh-uh". If you hear a clear, ringing caw, it's an American Crow. Behaviorally, American Crows forage in more upland areas (fields, landfills, etc.) as well as coasts, whereas Fish Crows are more restricted to shorelines and river edges (though this is not absolute).

Common Raven

Much larger than a Fish Crow (about twice the weight). Ravens have a very heavy bill and shaggy throat feathers, plus a wedge-shaped tail in flight. Range overlaps with Fish Crows mainly in some Eastern states, but ravens prefer more wilderness areas (mountains, large forests) whereas Fish Crows stick to waterways and urban coasts. Ravens have a deep, croaking "kraaawk" or "prruk" call, nothing like the high nasal call of a Fish Crow. In flight, ravens soar more and perform acrobatics like rolls, which crows usually do not. So if you see a truly large black bird soaring or hear a deep croak, it's a raven, not a Fish Crow.

Fish Crow song FAQ

What does a Fish Crow sound like?
The Fish Crow's signature call is a short, nasal two-note caw that sounds like 'uh-uh' or 'ah-ah', as if the bird is saying 'no'. This call is higher-pitched and more nasal than the full-throated "caw" of an American Crow. Often the second syllable is lower in pitch than the first. They will repeat this double call throughout the day, and it's the most reliable way to identify the species. Listen for the "uh-uh" phrase.
How do I tell a Fish Crow from a American Crow by sound?
American Crow: Larger overall and more widespread in various habitats. Visually, American Crows and Fish Crows are extremely hard to differentiate; however, American Crows typically have a deeper, less nasal voice. The American Crow's typical call is a strong, full "caw caw", usually given in a series of 3–5 caws. Fish Crow's voice is a much more nasal "uh-uh". If you hear a clear, ringing caw, it's an American Crow. Behaviorally, American Crows forage in more upland areas (fields, landfills, etc.) as well as coasts, whereas Fish Crows are more restricted to shorelines and river edges (though this is not absolute).; When seen together, American Crows are noticeably bulkier with a slightly thicker bill. American Crows also tend to have a more fan-shaped tail when spread, whereas Fish Crow's tail might look slightly more pointed. But these differences are subtle – voice remains the best indicator. Range overlaps extensively, so identification often hinges on hearing that distinctive call..
When is the best time to hear a Fish Crow?
Form flocks and may join communal roosts in winter; pair off and localize around nesting areas in breeding season.