Jackdaw

The Jackdaw is the smallest crow in Britain, about the size of a pigeon. It has a pale grey patch on the back of its head and around its ears, which stands out clearly against its black feathers. Its pale blue-grey eyes are especially noticeable up close. The call is a sharp, metallic sound, like "chack" or "kyow," often heard when it is flying. The Jackdaw is common and found widely across the UK and much of Europe, stretching as far east as Asia. It is very adaptable and prefers areas like parks, farmland, and towns where old trees or buildings offer holes for nesting. They are often seen around church towers, old ruins, and chimneys. Jackdaws are sociable all year round and often gather in large groups with rooks during the winter. Their flight is faster and more nimble than larger members of the crow family, with quicker wingbeats.