Crows do not threaten bird species

New York: They steal, raid nests and keep the company of witches but contrary to common beliefs, crows may not be as big a menace.

A new study led by an Indian-origin scientist has found that crows, along with their avian cousins - magpie and raven - have surprisingly little impact on the abundance of other bird species.

Collectively known as corvids, these birds are, in fact, being menaced by mankind in the mistaken belief that removing them is good for conservation.

"These results have big implications for the likely benefits of corvid control," said senior study author and avian conservation biologist Arjun Amar.

"They suggest that killing corvids will be of most benefit to those interested in gamebird shooting," he added.