Long-billed Crow

Overview

The long-billed crow (Corvus validus) is a large, glossy black crow endemic to the Northern Maluku Islands of Indonesia. It is currently classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Identification

• A large bird measuring 45 to 53 cm in length, featuring entirely glossy black plumage in adults and duller black in juveniles.
• Distinguished by a large, black bill that tapers from a broad base, black legs, and white irises in adults (dark grey in juveniles).
• The call resembles the yapping of a puppy, described as a repetitive 'cruk ... cruk ... cruk'.

Habitat

This forest-dwelling species is restricted to the archipelago of the Maluku Islands in Indonesia, specifically Morotai, Kayoa, Kasiruta, Bacan, and Halmahera. Although it favours primary forests, it is also found in secondary forests, partially logged areas, coconut plantations, and cultivated land.

Did you know?

The long-billed crow is the only crow species in its range with such a large beak, distinguishing it clearly from the Torresian crow (Corvus orru), which has a much smaller bill and prefers more open areas.