Chough

Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax

While its black plumage identifies it as a crow, the chough (pronounced ‘chuff’) has a red bill and legs unlike any other member of the crow family.

It has a restricted westerly distribution in the British Isles and because of its small population size and historically declining populations it is an Amber List species. It readily displays its mastery of flight with wonderful aerial displays of diving and swooping. Found in flocks in autumn and winter.

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Discover more about the Chough

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Related species

Rook

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Did you know?

They are known for mating for a lifetime. The males will provide food and they will preen each other as part of their courtship ritual.

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When to see

They can be seen all year round. 

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Where to see

They are found on farmlands, along the coast. They like to feed on insect rich dung piles, benefiting from cattle-grazing on Islay and Colonsay.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Rook

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

They are known for mating for a lifetime. The males will provide food and they will preen each other as part of their courtship ritual.

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen all year round. 

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

They are found on farmlands, along the coast. They like to feed on insect rich dung piles, benefiting from cattle-grazing on Islay and Colonsay.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Rook

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

They are known for mating for a lifetime. The males will provide food and they will preen each other as part of their courtship ritual.

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen all year round. 

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

They are found on farmlands, along the coast. They like to feed on insect rich dung piles, benefiting from cattle-grazing on Islay and Colonsay.