Corvids including crows, ravens, jackdaws, and magpies demonstrate remarkable cognitive abilities that make keeping them in captivity without adequate stimulation particularly welfare-compromising.
The cognitive sophistication of corvids means that their welfare needs in captivity are far greater than for most other bird species. Captive corvids without appropriate mental stimulation, social interaction, and opportunities for problem-solving develop chronic boredom that manifests in feather destructive behaviour, repetitive pacing, and other stereotypies. Rehabilitation of injured corvids requires gradual habituation to release sites with established corvid communities. Pet corvids, where legal, require the most intensive social and cognitive enrichment of any companion bird. Most corvid species are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and cannot be kept without licence.