Torresian Crow

The Torresian crow, known scientifically as Corvus orru, is a passerine bird belonging to the crow family. This species, also referred to as the Australian crow or Papuan crow, is adorned in a sleek black plumage, with a beak and mouth to match, and striking white irises. A closer look reveals the base of the feathers on the head and neck are white, a detail that becomes apparent when the feathers are ruffled. The Torresian crow is a robust bird, slightly larger and with a more formidable bill than its relative, the little crow.

Identification Tips

Upon alighting, the Torresian crow often performs a characteristic shuffle of its wings. Both sexes appear identical, with glossy black feathers on the back and a duller black on the breast. The tail is broad with a square tip, and the bill is dark grey, roughly the same length as the head. The legs and feet share this grey hue, with a hint of pink on the foot soles. Juveniles can be distinguished by their lack of glossy dorsal feathers and blue eyes, which transition to white by around nine months of age.

Habitat

The Torresian crow is a versatile inhabitant, found in a variety of environments provided there is a permanent water source. Its habitats range from tropical rainforests and eucalyptus woodlands to open scrub, beaches, and swamps. It has also adapted well to human-altered landscapes such as farmlands, towns, and cities.

Distribution

This crow's domain stretches across the north and west of Australia, with its presence also noted on nearby islands in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The species is particularly numerous on farms in Northern Australia, where it is often considered a pest.

Behaviour

Torresian crows are known for their intelligence and adaptability. They exhibit aggressive behavior, especially females, and are known to defend their territory against larger birds of prey. They form large nomadic groups that roam across various landscapes, though during breeding season, they establish temporary territories.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Torresian crow are distinct from those of the Australian raven. Their calls include a nasal, metallic clattering "uk-uk-uk-uk-uk" or an "ok-ok-ok-ok," sometimes with an upward inflection, reminiscent of a cat's meow.

Breeding

The breeding season peaks from August to January, with nests built high in trees or occasionally on man-made structures. The female lays two to four eggs and incubates them for about twenty days. Both parents then rear the chicks for around forty days until they fledge.

Diet and Feeding

An omnivorous bird, the Torresian crow's diet includes invertebrates, berries, carrion, and in urban areas, anthropogenic waste. In Northern Australia, they have developed a unique method to consume the poisonous cane toad by avoiding the toxic parts, a technique that is culturally transmitted within the species.

Conservation status

The Torresian crow is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline or habitat loss.