Jackdaw

Jackdaws are small black crows with a silvery mantle from their head down over their shoulders, and are very common round here. They are so characterful and sociable and they always look so busy as they check out what’s going on. I think they are wonderful birds, and am always drawn to watch them when they are in the garden.

Their Latin name is corvus monedula which I just think means jackdaw! They are related to crows, rooks, jays and magpies and can be seen (and heard ) all across the British Isles, and further afield too, I am sure. They are not fussy eaters, anything goes on the jackdaw menu, and they are also quite adept at taking over other birds’ old nests. They are extremely intelligent and can be taught all sorts of things, and can also mimic speech.