New Caledonian Crow

Least Concern

Corvus moneduloides

The feathered genius of the South Pacific, this tool-wielding corvid crafts its own hooks to snag insect prey.

Visual Identification

Appearance

The New Caledonian Crow is a medium-sized corvid with predominantly black plumage. Its feathers have a glossy sheen, with subtle brown undertones visible in bright light. The bird has a robust, slightly curved black beak and strong black legs.

Both males and females share similar appearances, with no significant sexual dimorphism. Juveniles may appear slightly duller than adults, with less glossy feathers and a pinkish base to their beak that darkens with age.

Size

Length

40cm to 45cm

Wingspan

75cm to 85cm

Weight

280g to 330g

Colours

Males and females have similar plumage

Primary Colour

Black

Secondary Colour

Brown

Beak Colour

Black

Leg Colour

Black

Habitat and Distribution

Habitats

Woodland

Garden

Wetland

Coastal

Urban

Farmland

Grassland

Desert

Tundra

Rainforest

Mountain

Savanna

Distribution

The New Caledonian Crow is endemic to New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific. It inhabits a variety of forested environments, including tropical rainforests, dry forests, and savanna woodlands across the main island, Grande Terre.

These crows are non-migratory and maintain year-round territories. They are most abundant in undisturbed native forests but can also be found in areas with some human presence, particularly where Pandanus trees are prevalent.

Elevation Range

Sea level to 1500 meters

Climate zones

Tropical

Distribution Map

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Breeding

Distribution by Region

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Behaviour and Ecology

Bird Attributes

Tap the icon next to each attribute for more information.

Agility 85
Strength 60
Adaptability 95
Aggressiveness 55
Endurance 70

Diet

New Caledonian Crows are omnivorous, with a diet consisting of insects, larvae, small vertebrates, and fruit. They are particularly skilled at extracting grubs from dead wood using self-made tools.

These crows have been observed creating hooks from twigs to fish out insects from tree crevices, showcasing their innovative foraging techniques.

Behaviour

New Caledonian Crows are renowned for their exceptional tool-making and tool-using abilities, crafting and modifying sticks to extract insects from tree crevices.

They exhibit complex problem-solving skills, often working in pairs or small family groups. These crows also engage in aerial acrobatics, performing barrel rolls and loops during flight.

Vocalisation

The New Caledonian Crow's vocalisations include a variety of harsh, raspy calls. Their most common sound is a distinctive 'waa-waa' or 'kaaa-kaaa'.

They also produce softer, more melodious notes during social interactions and a series of rapid, staccato calls when alarmed or excited.

Nesting & Breeding

New Caledonian Crows typically form monogamous pairs and breed between September and December. They engage in mutual preening and food sharing as part of their courtship rituals.

Nests are usually built high in trees, constructed with sticks and lined with softer materials like leaves and moss. The female lays 2-3 pale blue-green eggs with brown speckles.

Both parents participate in incubation, which lasts about 18-20 days. Nestlings fledge after approximately 35 days but may remain with their parents for several months, learning crucial tool-making and foraging skills.

Lifespan

Typical Lifespan Range 5 - 10 years
Max Recorded Lifespan 15 years
0
4
9
13
17

years

The New Caledonian Crow typically lives for 5 to 10 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 15 years.

Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.

Conservation and Status

Global Conservation Status

Least Concern [1]

While currently listed as Least Concern, the New Caledonian Crow faces threats from habitat loss due to mining and forest degradation.

Conservation efforts focus on protecting their native forest habitats and raising awareness about their unique cognitive abilities and cultural significance to the island.

Population Data

Global Population Estimate

Not quantified, but believed to be common in its range [2]

Global Population Trend

Stable[3]

Birdwatching Tips

  • Look for them in forested areas, especially near Pandanus trees
  • Listen for their distinctive, raspy 'waa-waa' calls
  • Observe tree branches and crevices for signs of tool use
  • Be patient, as they can be shy around humans
  • Visit protected areas in New Caledonia for the best chances of spotting them

Additional Information

Quick Facts

Other names:

Kanaky Crow

Family:

Corvidae

Predators

Main predators include raptors such as the Swamp Harrier and introduced mammals like cats and rats, which primarily target eggs and nestlings.

Did You Know?

  1. New Caledonian Crows can create hooks from straight pieces of wire, a skill previously thought unique to humans.
  2. They have been observed using tools in a sequence to solve multi-step problems.
  3. These crows can remember and distinguish human faces, avoiding those perceived as threats.

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References

  1. 1

    website: BirdLife International. 2018. Corvus moneduloides. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T22705944A131945232.

    View source
  2. 2 3

    report, 2000: Ekstrom et al.