Cuban Crow

Overview

The Cuban Crow is endemic to Cuba and a few small surrounding islands, where it inhabits a variety of wooded and semi-open habitats. It is one of several crow species found across the Caribbean.

It is notable among crows for an unusually varied vocal repertoire, which observers often find as distinctive as its plumage.

Feather Identification

Feathers are uniformly glossy black with a blue-green sheen, typical of many crow species but without any pale patches.

• Flight feathers: Broad, sturdy primaries and secondaries suited to the bird's fairly robust build.
• Tail feathers: Squared, glossy black tail feathers.
• Similar species: Similar in structure to other Caribbean crows such as the White-necked Crow; the absence of any white feather bases at the neck helps distinguish it from that species.

Plumage Notes

Adults show uniform glossy black plumage with a consistent sheen. Juveniles are duller and less glossy, developing full adult plumage with maturity.

Sexes are alike. A complete molt follows breeding, as in other corvids.

Habitat & Range

Cuban Crows inhabit woodland, scrub, and semi-open country across Cuba and a few nearby islands such as the Isle of Youth. They tolerate a range of habitat types within their island range.

The species is resident and non-migratory, restricted to its island range.

Behavior & Field Notes

This crow is social, typically seen in small groups foraging in trees or on the ground. Diet is broad and opportunistic, typical of island-dwelling crow species.

Nests are stick platforms built in trees. Its calls are notably varied, including a range of odd, non-caw-like sounds in addition to more typical crow vocalizations. This vocal variety is often the easiest way to identify the species in the field.