Crows & Jays in Leicestershire
6 species matching this filter.
Leicestershire is home to six species from the crow and jay family (Corvidae), ranging from the ubiquitous Carrion Crow and Magpie to the increasingly observed Common Raven, which has been expanding its range back into the English Midlands in recent years. The county's mix of farmland, parkland, and woodland — including areas such as Charnwood Forest and Rutland Water's surroundings — provides excellent habitat for these intelligent and adaptable birds. The Eurasian Jay, often heard before it is seen, adds a flash of colour to Leicestershire's woodlands, while large Rook colonies remain a characteristic sight across the county's agricultural landscape.
Carrion Crow
Corvus coroneLC
A common and adaptable resident found across all habitats from city centres to open countryside. Often seen in noisy family groups during summer.
Year-round
Common Raven
Corvus coraxLC
An uncommon but increasing resident, recolonising the county after a long absence; look for its tumbling display flight.
Year-round
Eurasian Jay
Garrulus glandariusLC
An uncommon but widespread resident of broadleaved woodland, often detected by its harsh screeching call in autumn.
Year-round
Jackdaw
Corvus monedulaLC
A common and sociable resident, nesting in church towers, old trees, and buildings. Often seen in noisy flocks with Rooks across farmland.
Year-round
Magpie
Pica picaLC
A common and conspicuous resident in gardens, parks, hedgerows and farmland. Its bold black-and-white plumage and chattering call are unmistakable.
Year-round
Rook
Corvus frugilegusLC
A common and sociable resident, nesting colonially in tall trees across the county's farmland and village margins.
Year-round