Large-billed Crow

The Large-billed Crow, Corvus macrorhynchos, is a bird of considerable heft and presence. With a length ranging from 46 to 59 centimeters and a wingspan stretching from 100 to 130 centimeters, it is a sizeable member of the corvid family. This species exhibits a pronounced bill, thick and arched, lending it a raven-like appearance. Its plumage is a study in contrast, with glossy black adorning the wings, tail, face, and throat, while the back of the head, neck, shoulders, and lower body are cloaked in shades of dark grey.

Identification Tips

When observing the Large-billed Crow, note the regional variations in body proportions. In the northeastern reaches of its range, it may even surpass the carrion crow in size. The bill is a key feature for identification—long, with the upper mandible particularly robust. The interplay of glossy black and dark grey plumage is distinctive, though the depth of grey can vary geographically.

Habitat

This adaptable crow can be found in a variety of settings, from woodlands to parks and gardens, and cultivated areas with a smattering of trees. It tends to favor more open country in the southern parts of its range, where it does not compete with the common raven and carrion crow.

Distribution

The Large-billed Crow's domain is vast, spanning from the northeastern Asian seaboard across to Afghanistan and eastern Iran, and from South and Southeast Asia down to the Lesser Sundas and Cambodia.

Behaviour

This crow is known for its versatility and persistence in feeding, taking advantage of both terrestrial and arboreal food sources. It is bold, particularly in urban environments, where it has been known to forage through refuse and even pilfer wire coat hangers for nest construction. In Sri Lanka, it has been observed as a proficient hunter of small animals, including critically endangered lizards.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Large-billed Crow are varied, with a deep, resonant "caa-haa-caa" being most common. However, it is capable of producing a range of calls, some of which may be mistaken for the drumming of a woodpecker.

Breeding

Nesting typically occurs high in the trees, with a preference for tall conifers. The nest is a twig platform, lined with softer materials, where 3 to 5 eggs are laid. Incubation lasts 17 to 19 days, with fledging by approximately day 35. Breeding season varies by region, with some Indian populations starting as early as mid-December.

Similar Species

The Large-billed Crow may be confused with the common raven due to its size and bill shape, but the raven is generally larger and has a more wedge-shaped tail.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous scavenger, the Large-billed Crow's diet is impressively broad, encompassing anything that appears edible, from plant matter to carrion and small animals.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Large-billed Crow as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.