Members of the Corvidae family (corvids) like crows and ravens are intelligent birds with a vocal repertoire that enables them to mimic words; they cooperate and use tools; they recognize human faces and, if hostile, alert the flock. They hold long-lasting grudges.
Featuring in myriads of myths and legends, corvids have received contrasting symbolic meaning. For some, they stand for adaptability and divine wisdom (in Greek mythology they served as sacred messengers for Apollo); for others, they are associated with plague, warfare, and death. Paradoxically, corvids are seen as both wise guides and grim omens. [Read more…] about Friedrich, Poe, & Hitchcock: A Murder of Crows
