The white-billed crow is a member of the crow family found on the Solomon Islands.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs across several islands of the Solomon Islands archipelago, especially in lowland and hill rainforests. Prefers primary and mature secondary forests but also uses forest edges, gardens near forest, and coastal woodland. Frequently forages in the mid- to upper canopy, descending to the ground at edges or clearings. It can be locally common where suitable forest persists and is less frequent in heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to the Solomon Islands, the white-billed crow is instantly recognized by its striking ivory bill contrasting with glossy black plumage. It is an intelligent forest corvid that forages widely and helps disperse seeds while also scavenging. Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, it keeps to forest interiors more than many other crows. Its voice is a series of harsh caws and croaks that carry through the canopy.
Temperament
alert, clever, and cautious
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with steady wingbeats, short glides between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species foraging flocks at forest edges. Monogamous pairs maintain territories within forested areas. Nests are placed high in tall trees, constructed from sticks and lined with softer materials. Both parents likely participate in rearing young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are harsh caws, croaks, and rattling notes, often delivered in short sequences. Calls carry well through dense forest and vary in pitch and intensity depending on context.
Plumage
Uniform glossy black with a subtle bluish to purplish sheen; feathers sleek and close-lying.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore that eats insects, spiders, and other invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark. Also consumes fruits and seeds, contributing to seed dispersal in forest ecosystems. Will take small vertebrates, eggs, and carrion when available. Frequently inspects fallen logs, palm crowns, and mixed-species flocks for feeding opportunities.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid- to upper canopy of primary and mature secondary forest. Also feeds along edges, in clearings, and occasionally on the ground near forest margins or gardens.
