Description

🪶 Introduction to Corvid Care

Corvids are some of the most intelligent birds around and can be really interesting to have in care. However, their intelligence and social structure can make rehabilitation and release tricky, with what seem like small mistakes leading to big issues.

This introductory course will cover the basics and will give you plenty to think about when it comes to corvid care.
⏳ Access: 12 months to complete at your own pace

Each module includes:

🎥 Video presentations
📚 Reference materials and reading lists
🧩 Downloadable templates and checklists
🧠 A short quiz to reinforce your learning

Course Overview

Module 1 – Understanding Corvids

Explore the world of UK corvids — crows, rooks, ravens, magpies, and jackdaws. Learn about their intelligence, social structures, and natural behaviours to better understand their care needs.

Module 2 – When and How to Help

Learn how to safely assess whether a corvid needs intervention, how to handle and contain them safely, and the key first steps to take after rescue. Includes public guidance and triage basics.

Module 3 – Admission and Triage

Understand how to conduct an initial health check, identify signs of shock, dehydration, or injury, and set up temporary housing for stabilisation. Includes practical templates and observation guides.

Module 4 – Feeding and Housing

Learn what to feed corvids of different ages, how to avoid imprinting and behavioural issues, and how to design appropriate housing and enrichment to support recovery and natural behaviour.

Module 5 – Behaviour, Stress, and Enrichment

Corvids are highly intelligent and emotionally complex. This module covers stress reduction, mental stimulation, social needs, and techniques that promote welfare and successful rehabilitation.

Module 6 – Release and Long-Term Care

Understand when a corvid is ready for release, how to plan a safe and ethical release, and options for non-releasable birds. Includes guidance on soft release and social integration.

What You’ll Gain

• A clearer understanding of corvid behaviour, care, and rehabilitation in the UK

• More confidence to handle and care for corvids safely and ethically

• Practical tools, templates, and reference materials to support your work

• Insights into behaviour, welfare, and long-term management

• A certificate of completion