Crows can be found in forested areas, but they tend to avoid unbroken expanses of forest. This is because crows are generalists and prefer open spaces where they can find a variety of food sources and have a clear line of sight to detect potential predators.
In my personal experience as a birdwatcher, I have observed that crows are more commonly seen at forest campgrounds. These areas provide a mix of open spaces, such as picnic areas and clearings, along with the presence of human activity. Crows are known to be opportunistic feeders and are attracted to human food scraps and waste, making campgrounds an appealing foraging spot for them.
Additionally, crows often travel into forests along roads and rivers. These linear features provide corridors or edges that crows find advantageous for their foraging and movement. Roadsides can offer a source of roadkill or other scavenging opportunities, while rivers may attract crows due to the availability of aquatic prey or easy access to water.
It is important to note that crows are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including urban areas, agricultural fields, and suburban neighborhoods. Their ability to thrive in diverse environments is one of the reasons why they are one of the most widespread and successful bird species.
However, crows do tend to avoid deserts. The lack of suitable nesting sites, limited food resources, and extreme temperatures make desert environments less favorable for crows. They are more commonly found in areas with a mixture of trees, open spaces, and human activity.
To summarize, while crows may not be commonly found deep within unbroken expanses of forests, they are known to frequent forest campgrounds, travel into forests along roads and rivers, and adapt to a variety of habitats. Their preference for open spaces and their opportunistic feeding behavior contribute to their presence in these areas.