The violet crow is a species of the crow family, Corvidae, native to Seram, an island in Indonesia. It was long considered a subspecies of the slender-billed crow but has been shown to be divergent genetically. Violet crows have a dark black head and slightly blue black body and have a slightly shorter bill than most other crow species.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Endemic to the island of Seram, where it inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland and hill forests. It frequents forest edges, riverine corridors, and selectively logged areas if sufficient canopy remains. The species tends to forage from the mid-story to the canopy but may descend to the ground in clearings or along tracks. It avoids highly degraded habitats and open agricultural areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The violet crow is a recently recognized species split from the slender-billed crow complex based on genetic divergence. Its name refers to the deep violet-blue iridescence visible on its glossy black plumage in good light. Like many corvids, it is intelligent and adaptable, and it likely contributes to forest ecology by dispersing seeds and preying on insects.
Temperament
alert and wary, intelligent
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats and short glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups moving through the mid-canopy. Nests are placed high in tall trees; both adults participate in nest building and care of young. Foraging is often quiet and methodical, with short sallies between perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of harsh caws, nasal croaks, and grating notes, often delivered from high perches. Calls vary in pitch and cadence and can include softer contact notes within pairs or small groups.
Plumage
Glossy black overall with a strong violet-blue iridescent sheen, especially on the mantle, wings, and tail; plumage appears smooth and sleek.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore that takes fruits and seeds from canopy trees, beetles and other insects gleaned from foliage, and small vertebrates when available. It may raid nests for eggs or nestlings and will scavenge carrion opportunistically. Seasonal fruiting events can attract small groups to shared resources.
Preferred Environment
Feeds primarily in the forest mid-story and canopy, visiting fruiting trees and probing bark and epiphytes. It also forages along forest edges, trails, and occasionally on the ground in clearings.
