Title: The Crow and the Magpie: Five Significant Differences, Easy to Identify in One Article.
Two birds, crows and magpies, are often seen in our daily lives, however, for many people, the distinction between them is not an easy task. In this article, we'll take a closer look at five of the biggest differences between the two to help you clearly distinguish between a crow and a magpie.
In terms of appearance and color, the difference between crows and magpies is obvious. The crow has a deep black hue and high gloss of feathers, as calm and mysterious as obsidian; The magpie, on the other hand, has black and white feathers, a blue-black back, and a bright white belly and tail, forming a strong visual contrast and making it more lively and eye-catching.
Body size is an important basis for distinguishing between the two. The crow is larger, generally up to 40-50 cm in length, and the wingspan can reach more than 90 cm, and the overall shape is relatively strong; In contrast, magpies are slightly smaller, with a body length of about 30-40 cm and a wingspan of about 50 cm, making them more slender and elegant.
In terms of living habits, crows and magpies have their own characteristics. The crow is adaptable, whether it is in the city or the countryside, woodland or field, it can be seen, and often moves in groups, making a low and rhythmic call; Magpies prefer to live near human settlements, such as parks, orchards, etc., and their calls are high and loud, known for their "chirping" sounds, and they mostly appear alone or in pairs.
Fourth, there are also significant differences in food choices. Crows are omnivorous birds, which eat fruits, seeds, insects, and carrion, and have a strong ability to obtain food. Magpies, on the other hand, feed mainly on insects, frogs, small invertebrates, and various plant seeds, and although they occasionally forage for carrion, they are not as common as crows.
Cultural symbolism varies. In traditional Chinese culture, crows are often seen as a bad omen, symbolizing bad luck or death; On the other hand, the magpie is a symbol of good luck, especially when it flies to the door, and is often believed to bring good news, as the idiom "magpie climbs the branch".
By looking at the five distinct differences between crows and magpies in terms of appearance, size, habits, food choices, and cultural symbolism, we can more accurately identify and appreciate these two common birds. Although they are positioned differently in the natural world, they all enrich our ecological environment in their own unique ways, and they deserve our understanding and respect.