Rook

🔍 Overview

The most social of UK crows, Rooks are widespread in rural Sussex and identifiable by their bare greyish face and shaggy thigh feathers.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Large (45 cm)

Plumage: Glossy black with purple sheen

Bill Base: Pale and bare in adults

Thighs: Feathered and shaggy-looking

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Common in farmland, villages, and roadside trees. Nest in rookeries—large, noisy colonies in tall trees.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Harsh “kaah” calls. Highly social and often seen in mixed flocks with Jackdaws.

🍴 Diet

Invertebrates, grain, carrion. Forages in freshly ploughed fields.

📸 Birding Tip

Look for rookeries in large oaks or beeches in winter. Watch field edges near ploughing tractors.