Why are crows so smart?
Daniel Lopez
Updated on February 22, 2026
The total number of neurons in crows (about 1.5 billion) is about the same as in some monkey species. But because they are more tightly packed, communication between the neurons seems to be better, and the overall intelligence of crows may be closer to that of Great Apes such as the gorilla.
Are crow intelligent?
But researchers have found that crows are not only playful and mischievous but also intelligent. They use tools to solve complex problems, and they remember faces for years and mimic sounds they hear.Is crow a most intelligent bird?
Members of the corvid family (songbirds including ravens, crows, jays, and magpies, to name a few) are among the most intelligent birds, though common ravens may have the edge on tackling tough problems, according to McGowan.Can crows understand humans?
A new study published in the journal Ethology, led by Barbara Clucas of Humboldt State University, revealed new dimensions in the crow's social reasoning. Namely, boggling as it is (remember, we're talking about a bird), crows can recognize, respond and adapt to specific human faces.Can you befriend a crow?
Crows can be cautious and aloof and will not readily come to humans. To befriend crows, you must create an environment where they will not only feel safe but comfortable visiting. Crows will seek out a quieter environment where food is readily available.Why Crows Are as Smart as 7 Year Old Humans
Do crows remember kindness?
If your friendship with crows is based on food they remember your generosity and bring their friends. Lots of friends. They can be quite demanding and don't understand when you stop feeding them.Who is smarter crow or dog?
They Can Outsmart Your Pets (Maybe)Cats and dogs can solve relatively complex problems, but they can't make and use tools. In this respect, you could say a crow is smarter that Fido and Fluffy. If your pet is a parrot, its intelligence is as sophisticated as a crow's.