grajos

1. Bird Name: Jackdaw
The Jackdaw belongs to the crow family and is known as Eurasian Jackdaw. Its scientific name is Corvus monedula.

2. Aspecto
Jackdaws are recognized by their distinctive silver-grey nape and sheen neck, which contrast dramatically with their black plumage. Their eyes are pale, almost silvery, which stand out against their dark face. The beak is short with a slightly pointed shape, perfect for foraging and pecking. Their plumage has a slight iridescence, displaying blue and purple hues under sunlight. There is no significant external difference between males and females.

3. Tamaño
Jackdaws are one of the smallest species within the crow family. They typically measure between 34-39 cm (13-15 inches) in length. Their wingspan averages around 70 cm (28 inches) and they typically weigh between 220 to 270 grams.

4. Hábitat y distribución
Jackdaws are found throughout Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. They inhabit a variety of locales including woodland edges, fields, parks, and urban areas – they are a common sight in towns and villages. They prefer nesting in cavities, from tree hollows to cliff crevices, and even in towers and chimneys.

5. Datos de interés
Jackdaws are highly social birds, usually seen in pairs or large groups. They are known to recognize themselves in mirrors, exhibiting signs of self-awareness. Their intelligence extends to their mating, as they remain monogamous throughout their lives. In some cultures, the jackdaw is a symbol of curiosity, intelligence, and adaptability, especially in folklore and literature.

6. Dieta
Jackdaws are essentially omnivores. They eat a varied diet that includes insects, earthworms, berries, fruits, seeds, and scraps of human food. They are also known to be scavengers, taking advantage of whatever food sources are readily available.

7. Comportamiento y sonidos
Jackdaws exhibit sociable behaviors, forming large, noisy flocks, especially during autumn and winter. Their call is a distinctive, high-pitched “kya” or a sharp “jack”, and their song consists of a series of these calls strung together. They display a unique flying pattern with rapid wing beats followed by a glide.

8. Estado de conservación
Jackdaws are listed as of ‘Least Concern’ by the IUCN Red List, thanks to their large, stable population numbers and expansive range.

9. Vida útil
Jackdaws generally live for about 5 years in the wild, although some individuals have been known to reach up to 14 years. In captivity, they tend to live longer with a lifespan of up to 20 years.

10. Notas adicionales
In non-English speaking countries, they are identified by various names. For instance, in France, they are called ‘Choucas’, in Germany, ‘Dohle’, and in Spain, ‘Grajilla’. They tend to be quite comfortable around humans, especially in urban settings. Jackdaws have also been known to form symbiotic relationships with other birds, leading them to food sources in return for protection. This makes them an interesting link in their ecosystems, serving as both predators and helpers.