Crows: Encounters with the Wise Guys of the Avian World

Crows explores the intelligence and behavior of corvids - the family of birds that includes crows, ravens, magpies and jays. Author Candace Savage combines scientific research with cultural history and personal observations to examine these remarkable birds. The book presents studies from biologists and ornithologists who have documented corvids' problem-solving abilities, use of tools, and complex social structures. Traditional stories and myths about crows from Indigenous peoples and cultures around the world provide additional perspectives on humanity's long relationship with these birds. Savage's investigation moves between corvid species across North America, Europe and Asia, examining the ways these adaptable birds have thrived alongside human civilization. The narrative incorporates field research, laboratory findings, and historical accounts to build a comprehensive portrait of corvid capabilities. This work challenges assumptions about animal intelligence and consciousness while exploring the intersection of science and folklore. The relationship between humans and corvids emerges as a lens for examining larger questions about cognition, culture, and our understanding of the natural world.

Readers describe this as an accessible introduction to crow behavior and intelligence, with many finding it more engaging than traditional scientific texts. On Goodreads, the book holds a 3.91/5 rating from 300+ readers. Readers appreciated: - Clear explanations of research studies and experiments - Personal anecdotes that illustrate crow behavior - Quality photographs and illustrations - Balance of scientific information and storytelling Common criticisms: - Too basic for readers already familiar with corvids - Some repetitive content - Desire for more in-depth scientific detail - Short length (some felt it was more like a long article) One reader noted: "Perfect for someone who wants to learn about crows but doesn't want to wade through dense academic writing." Another mentioned: "The photos alone make it worth picking up." Amazon rating: 4.5/5 from 100+ reviews LibraryThing: 3.8/5 from 50+ reviews

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🦅 Author Candace Savage has written over two dozen books about nature and wildlife, earning her the Saskatchewan Order of Merit for her contributions to environmental education. 🌿 The book reveals that crows can craft and use tools, recognize human faces, and even hold "funerals" for their dead companions. 🧠 New Caledonian crows, featured prominently in the book, demonstrate problem-solving abilities comparable to those of a 5-7 year old human child. 🗣️ Crows have distinct regional "dialects" in their calls, and family groups develop their own unique variations of these vocalizations. 🏆 The book won the Saskatchewan Book Award for Publishing in Education and was praised for making complex scientific research accessible to general readers.