The Cuban palm crow is a relatively small corvid that is endemic to the Caribbean island of Cuba.
Region
Caribbean
Typical Environment
This crow is confined to eastern Cuba, where it occupies open to semi-open habitats with scattered palms and pine woodlands. It frequents palm savannas, the edges of low montane pine forests, agricultural mosaics with hedgerows, and lightly wooded pastures. It avoids dense, closed-canopy rainforest but uses forest margins and natural clearings. Nesting is often associated with tall palms or dead snags, where cavities or crown structures provide shelter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Cuban palm crow is a relatively small corvid specialized for life in palm-dotted savannas and open pine woodlands. It has a notably slender bill for a crow and a short tail, which help distinguish it from the larger Cuban Crow. Its harsh, nasal calls carry over open country, and it often forages methodically in palm crowns and on the ground. Habitat loss and degradation of palm-savanna and pine ecosystems likely affect local populations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often found in small family groups or loose flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Pairs likely nest in cavities within palm crowns or dead snags and defend a small territory around the nest. Roosting can be communal in suitable trees near feeding areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are harsh, nasal caws and grating charrs, often given in rapid series. Calls carry well over open country and are used to maintain contact within small groups. Softer chatters and clicks may occur during close social interactions near nests.
Plumage
Uniform black with a slight purplish gloss; feathers can look slightly shaggy at the throat.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore, it feeds on insects and their larvae gleaned from foliage, palm crowns, and the ground. It also takes fruits, seeds, and occasionally small vertebrates or eggs when available. Carrion and human refuse may be exploited in rural areas, though natural foods dominate.
Preferred Environment
Foraging occurs in palm savannas, open pine woodlands, field edges, and lightly grazed pastures with scattered trees. It frequently searches palm crowns and dead wood for hidden insects and grubs, and also walks on the ground picking prey.
