Bird

Hawaiian Crow

Corvus hawaiiensis

Also known as Alala, ʻAlalā

Hawaiian crows, known locally as the ʻalalā, are remarkably intelligent corvids that wield tools to probe crevices for hidden invertebrates. They possess an elaborate vocal repertoire of complex calls, whistles, and deep resonant squawks that once echoed through the montane canopies of Hawaiʻi Island. As key seed dispersers for native fruiting trees, their disappearance from the wild caused major disruptions across Hawaiian forest ecosystems.

Forest DwellerRareTool User

—observations

—countries

—peak records

Extinct in the WildConservation status

Key facts

Diet & preyNative Fruits, Insects and Larvae, Bird Eggs

Predators

Hawaiian Hawk
Feral Cat
Small Indian Mongoose

ThreatsPredation by introduced mammals, avian malaria, toxoplasmosis, and habitat loss

HabitatsMontane mesic and wet native forests dominated by ʻōhiʻa and koa trees

Life span18 years in the wild; up to 28 years in captivity

Classification

FamilyCorvidae
SpeciesCorvus hawaiiensis

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskLow

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is low: Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice: Look for a solid brownish-black corvid with rounded wings, bristly throat feathers, and a remarkably heavy bill.
Support conservation: Maintain extreme distance around active release enclosures, avoid playback calls, and never attempt to feed or approach them.

Responsible observation

Observation Settings: Currently found only in managed conservation breeding facilities and monitored release programs.
Respect Boundaries: Give release sites a wide berth to prevent transmitting avian pathogens or stress.
Report Sightings: Immediately notify conservation authorities if an unbanded or escaped individual is spotted.

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