The Bismarck crow is a species of crow found in the Bismarck Archipelago. It was considered by many authorities to be a subspecies of the Torresian crow, but is now treated as a distinct species.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Bismarck Archipelago)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout the larger islands of the Bismarck Archipelago, including New Britain and New Ireland, and nearby islets. It occupies lowland and foothill rainforest, forest edges, secondary growth, coconut and cocoa plantations, and village gardens. The species also uses coastal habitats such as mangroves and beaches, and readily forages in human-modified areas. It is generally absent from dense high montane forest. Local abundance is often highest near settlements where food resources are predictable.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Recently split from the Torresian Crow, the Bismarck crow is endemic to the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea. Adults have a striking pale iris that contrasts with their glossy black plumage, a key field mark. Highly adaptable, it thrives around villages and plantations as well as in native forests, where it acts as an important scavenger.
Temperament
alert, intelligent, and adaptable
Flight Pattern
steady, deep wingbeats with occasional glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, with loose flocks forming at rich food sources. It nests high in tall trees, building a stick platform lined with softer materials. Communal roosting occurs near settlements and along forest edges during the non-breeding period.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh caws and croaks, often delivered in short series. Calls vary in pitch and rhythm and include rattling and grating notes used in social contact and alarm.
