Species · GBIF taxon 2482499
House Crow
Corvus splendensAlso known as Indian Crow, Grey-necked Crow, Ceylon Crow, Colombo Crow
House crows are highly social and exceptionally bold birds that thrive almost exclusively alongside human settlements, utilizing ships to colonize ports worldwide. They display remarkable problem-solving intelligence, often working in pairs to distract other animals and steal food. Their harsh, nasal cawing is a constant soundtrack in cities across their native and introduced ranges.
IntelligentAdaptableUrban
- diet
- Omnivorous (scavenged human food, seeds, insects, small vertebrates, eggs)
- family
- Corvidae
- threats
- Persecution as an invasive pest, poisoning campaigns
- life Span
- 6 to 12 years
LC
Nesting pairs may dive-bomb and scratch intruders; keep a respectful distance during breeding season.
Nesting adults aggressively defend their territory by dive-bombing and scratching the heads of perceived intruders.
Avoid lingering near active nests, and wear a hat or carry an umbrella if dive-bombed.- Watch for tool use: Observe them using sticks or wire to extract food from tight crevices.
- Keep food secure: Secure outdoor trash bins to prevent them from scattering litter while foraging.
- Respect nesting territory: Walk wide of trees where they are nesting to avoid defensive dive-bombing.