Abstract

Wing-tail flicking (WTF) is a little-researched behavior in some species of crows and other birds. American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) live in territorial family groups. Prior research shows WTF in American crows may serve as a social signal and characteristics of WTF could be passed through cultural transmission. We analyzed videos of marked individuals in known family groups during an experiment. WTFs were recorded quantitatively (intensity scale 1-3), as well as behavioral context and family identity. Preliminary data show that family identity explains differences in repeated WTFs. Wing-tail flicks are expected to create similar frequencies and repeats among crows of the same family groups. We expect that parent behavior will influence offspring behavior. American Crows are social animals with strong and stable family groups. Understanding behaviors that are innate versus ones that are passed down through generations is an important way to cultivate our knowledge of wild animals and their cultures.