New Caledonian Crow

The New Caledonian Crow is a medium-sized corvid with predominantly black plumage. Its feathers have a glossy sheen, with subtle brown undertones visible in bright light. The bird has a robust, slightly curved black beak and strong black legs.

Both males and females share similar appearances, with no significant sexual dimorphism. Juveniles may appear slightly duller than adults, with less glossy feathers and a pinkish base to their beak that darkens with age.

The New Caledonian Crow's vocalisations include a variety of harsh, raspy calls. Their most common sound is a distinctive 'waa-waa' or 'kaaa-kaaa'.

They also produce softer, more melodious notes during social interactions and a series of rapid, staccato calls when alarmed or excited.

• Look for them in forested areas, especially near Pandanus trees
• Listen for their distinctive, raspy 'waa-waa' calls
• Observe tree branches and crevices for signs of tool use
• Be patient, as they can be shy around humans
• Visit protected areas in New Caledonia for the best chances of spotting them

New Caledonian Crows are omnivorous, with a diet consisting of insects, larvae, small vertebrates, and fruit. They are particularly skilled at extracting grubs from dead wood using self-made tools.

These crows have been observed creating hooks from twigs to fish out insects from tree crevices, showcasing their innovative foraging techniques.

New Caledonian Crows typically form monogamous pairs and breed between September and December. They engage in mutual preening and food sharing as part of their courtship rituals.

Nests are usually built high in trees, constructed with sticks and lined with softer materials like leaves and moss. The female lays 2-3 pale blue-green eggs with brown speckles.

Both parents participate in incubation, which lasts about 18-20 days. Nestlings fledge after approximately 35 days but may remain with their parents for several months, learning crucial tool-making and foraging skills.

New Caledonian Crows are renowned for their exceptional tool-making and tool-using abilities, crafting and modifying sticks to extract insects from tree crevices.

They exhibit complex problem-solving skills, often working in pairs or small family groups. These crows also engage in aerial acrobatics, performing barrel rolls and loops during flight.

While currently listed as Least Concern, the New Caledonian Crow faces threats from habitat loss due to mining and forest degradation. 

Conservation efforts focus on protecting their native forest habitats and raising awareness about their unique cognitive abilities and cultural significance to the island.