Crows: Encounters with the Wise Guys »

Who knew that crows are second only to humans as toolmakers and tool users, that they have complex family lives not unlike our own, and that their vocalizations resemble human languages? This witty, charming book introduces readers to these endlessly fascinating creatures. Author Candace Savage explores their evolution and basic biology, diet and food-gathering practices, incredible tool-using capabilities, crow “languages,” tricky social interactions, and their impact on the human imagination as reflected in mythology, literature, and popular aphorisms. Based on extensive research, the book is a lively, loving tribute to these special feathered friends.

Preface: The Crow Connection     1
The Birds in Black     7
Family Dramas     33
The Trickster Revisited     57
Fellow Feeling     81
Notes     106
Further Reading     107
Picture Credits     110
Index     111