Midwest · Mississippi Flyway
Are There Fish Crows in Illinois?
Yes, but uncommon — Fish Crows occur in Illinois mainly from March to August. Corvus ossifragus · Corvidae
Is the Fish Crow Found in Illinois?
Fish Crows do occur in Illinois, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat during the breeding season.
Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Fish Crows occur regularly are Missouri (about 200 miles away), Tennessee (about 330 miles away) and Arkansas (about 400 miles away).
Often mistaken for Fish Crows in Illinois: American Crow, Common Grackle and Blue Jay — these occur regularly in Illinois, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Fish Crow.
Fish Crow is a North American backyard bird.
In Illinois, this species is classified as uncommon. It visits during the breeding season, typically spring through summer. The best months to observe this bird are March, April, May, June, July, August. Peak activity occurs in April.
Monthly Activity — Fish Crow in Illinois
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Fish Crow in Illinois
Other birds in Illinois
Birds you might also encounter in Illinois.
Fish Crow in other states
Fish Crow in Illinois: Quick Facts
The Fish Crow (Corvus ossifragus) is an uncommon bird in Illinois. It is classified as a summer breeder in the state, falling within the Midwest region and the Mississippi Flyway migration corridor.
The best months to spot this species in Illinois are March, April, May, June, July, August. For birders in Chicago and throughout Illinois, knowing the seasonal patterns of Fish Crow can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.
Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Illinois using the related birds section.