Rook

In the mid-50s, the rook was severely plagued by pesticides used in agriculture. The numbers decreased in the UK, and many colonies disappeared. However, because of changed rules regarding biocide use, the strain of rooks has stabilised again. The rooks live in a lifelong partnership in colonies as small as a couple of pairs or as large as about 50.

Appearance

It is as large as a crow but completely black with a metallic gleam. Has a conspicuous bare greyish white skin area around the beak.

Similar bird

Large and glistening black with a long beak; a greyish white naked base on many birds.

Sounds and song

Reminds of the crow, but hoarser and coarser. May also burr like a raven.

Food and bird tables

Rarely seen at the table.
All-round feeder, both vegetarian and animal. Essential parts of its diet are worms, snails, potatoes and trash.

The nest and hollows

The nest looks like a crow’s nest but more loosely assembled. Nests in treetops as a part of a colony.

Distribution

Summer  Resident  Winter