What is a flock of crows called?
↓ Keep reading to watch this amazing video
key point
- Crows generally don't live in groups like crows, but still form groups and pairs.
- A flock of crows is called unkind, but you can also call them crows, plots, betrayals, and flocks .
- Most people associate crows with death, dire omens and bad luck. But crows are deeply misunderstood creatures, including their semiotics.
Ravens belong to the Corvidae family and are among the most intelligent and resourceful animals on Earth. They can use tools, solve problems, mimic human language, and even plan for future events. Crows generally don't live in groups like crows, but still form groups and pairs. So what is a flock of crows called? How do they function as a team and work together? Find out below!
What is the term for a flock of crows?

© Crasula/Shutterstock.com
A flock of crows is called unkind, but you can also call them crows, plots, betrayals, and flocks . Most people use the generic term "crow flock". But for those who want to increase their vocabulary, you can casually say something like "I saw the crow's unkindness today" or "Look at the crow's plot!"
Crows have a relatively long history of being associated with negative omens and other dark prophecies. So their weird group name doesn't exactly help their reputation. But what does the crow's inhumanity or intrigue imply, and what do these birds symbolize?
What does a flock of crows symbolize?
Most people associate crows with death, dire omens and bad luck. But crows are deeply misunderstood creatures, including their semiotics. Seeing a crow can mean change or transformation. The raven symbolizes rebirth, opportunity and survival. So really, finding the crows unfriendly was more good luck than bad. In addition, if you dream of a group of crows, it means that there will be changes in your life or work.
Why is a flock of crows called conspiracy or heartless?

©Tom Meaker/Shutterstock.com
Ravens have a bad reputation for being associated with dark and devious events. Their all-black plumage and husky cry remind you of witches' pets. And their tendency to eat dead animals definitely doesn't make it any better. They are also known as liars.
Crows will kill and eat the young and eggs of other birds. If it's small enough, it can even eat an adult bird.
While these things sound bad, crows behave no differently than many other birds. For example, the blue bird symbolizes strength and self-confidence. But they also eat small birds, young birds, eggs and animal carcasses.
Now that you see why a flock of crows might be called uncharitable, why might they be called a conspiracy?
Research has shown that crows can plan for future events. Perhaps, even plotting? we do not know. But maybe the originator of the group's name had something to do with it.
How do crows function in groups?

© Wright There/Shutterstock.com
Crows are not as social as their crow cousins. But these birds usually surround other members of their species. During the winter, crows gather in flocks in search of food or shelter. During the rest of the year, they are found either in pairs or in small groups.
These birds have social structures within their groups. People with higher ranks have better access to food and other resources. Men outnumber women, and men are known to divide. Higher-ranking males will utter dominant calls, and if their subordinates do not respond in an acceptable manner, the two males may become aggressive until one of them wins. If a lower-ranked individual wins, the social structure changes. Crows also comfort each other after fights, which further shows their affection and intelligence.
How do crows work together?
Arguments aside, crows can pull together to get something done. Through observation and research, we know that these birds can coordinate their actions and collaborate to solve problems. They can also identify birds that have cheated in the past and will refuse to work with them. Closely related birds were more likely to have positive outcomes on tasks.
Crows are intelligent creatures with complex social structures. They are best socialized in groups, especially in winter. Crows use their gestures, voices and feathers to communicate with their fellow crows. They form relationships and alliances. And will take action on people they don't like. These birds are fascinating animals, and there's still a lot we don't know about them.
So while "Ruthless the Raven" sounds cool, it might be a little unfair.
Next:
- Saw an alligator biting an electric eel with 860 volts
- The 15 Deepest Lakes in America
- Watch rare coyotes and bobcats now
More from AZ Animals
featured image

© Crasula/Shutterstock.com
about the author
Niccoy is a professional writer and content creator focusing on nature, wildlife, food and travel. She graduated from Florida State University with a business degree before realizing that writing was her true passion. She lives in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and loves hiking, reading and cooking!
Thanks for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the 10hunting.com editorial team.