This Halloween I figured we'd break the mold and venture off into a species other than Canis lupus familiaris or Felis catus and dip our toes into the chilling waters of the exotic avian world! On the menu this evening; crow!
The Pied Crow (Corvus albus) is a widely distributed African bird species in the crow genus of the family Corvidae. It goes by many names; African Crow, African Corvid, Pied Crow, African Pied Crow, Vested Crow, etc. Structurally, the Pied Crow is similar to that of a small raven, especially as it can hybridize with the Somali Crow, which is a dwarf raven. No other species of crow can hybridize with a raven species.
It is about the size of the European Carrion Crow or a little larger, but has a proportionately larger bill, slightly longer tail and wings, and longer legs. As its name suggests, its glossy black head and neck are interrupted by a large area of white feathering from the shoulders down to the lower breast. The tail, bill, and wings are black, too. The eyes are dark brown. The white plumage of immature birds is often mixed with black. It resembles the white-necked and thick-billed ravens, but has a much smaller bill.
In the wild, Pied Crows are generally encountered in pairs or small groups, although an abundant source of food may bring together large numbers of birds. The species behaves in a similar manner to the hooded and carrion crows.
The nest is usually built in tall, isolated trees, though sometimes smaller specimens are used, depending on availability. The cross supports of telephone poles are also frequently used, and both sexes build the nest. A clutch of three to six eggs is laid from September to November (depending on latitude) and are pale green spotted with various shades of brown. The eggs are normally covered when the incubating female leaves the nest. Incubation is 18–19 days and the young are usually fledged by around 45 days. You may notice the coincidence that this happens around spooky season! Both sexes rear the young.
Native Corvids (American Crow, Common Raven, Fish Crow, and a member that may shock some people - the Blue Jay) are protected in the United States, but foreign species may be kept as pets. Several species of foreign Corvids are regularly bred by hobbyists. Among these is, of course, the Pied Crow. Possessing impressive intelligence, insatiable curiosity, and voice-mimicking abilities that rivals parrots, hand-raised crows have few equals as avian pets.
Even casual observation reveals crows to be unusually intelligent. Studies have shown that their tool-making and problem-solving abilities are on par with those of great apes. Both ornithologists and bird trainers generally consider them to be the most intelligent of all birds. They are excellent mimics, and need little if any encouragement to copy sounds and words. Naturally social, crows quickly bond to their owners and will even learn to respond to simple commands. Their intelligence is accompanied by a sensitive nature. Despite being quite bold, Pied Crows are easily stressed by inconsiderate behavior on the part of their owners. They will not forget actions they perceive as threatening or unfair, so be careful not to make any mistakes in regards to their treatment.
Another aspect of their brilliant minds is the capacity for mischief, and the need to manipulate - and if possible, destroy - anything they can get their massive beaks on. This is an outgrowth of their natural behavior and cannot be “trained” away. Pied Crows should never be left at unattended in a room that is not completely crow-proofed for their safety. This includes removing tassels which pose a choking hazard and can cause injury if toenails get caught in them, and adequately enclosing any exposed power cords. Before allowing your bird access to a room, go through it as if you were about to release a gang of toddlers just to be sure you've addressed any potential hazards!
Pied Crows are large and very active. Because of this, they need ample flight space. They will not adapt to commercial bird cages. Even cages designed for the largest macaws are far too small. A custom-built or commercial outdoor aviary, or a properly-outfitted indoor room, are the only options for a pet Pied Crow. Crows kept outdoors tend to be very active and healthier. Although they can be acclimated to cold weather, heated shelters are a must in temperate regions. Indoors, Pied Crows are best located where they can observe people. They also take an interest in televisions and phone conversations.
Even if provided adequate space, Pied Crows will languish if not stimulated by toys, behavioral enrichment, and out-of-cage time. Daily interaction with people is essential if they are to remain handleable. Concerning handling, it must be understood that the beak is a formidable weapon, and that even accidental injuries can be severe. New keepers often underestimate their beak - this thing can make you bleed.
Many Pied Crow owners feed their birds cat food or dog food. While this may acceptably sustain them, there are foods available o the market that are used by zoos for Corvids. Additionally, they should be offered whole prey (whole mice, chicks, and insects) as this is essential in ensuring proper calcium intake and general good health. Canned grasshoppers, snails, and other invertebrates can be used to provide critical dietary variety. A wide range of vegetables, chopped nuts, and fruits (in moderate amounts) should also be provided. Hard-boiled eggs are also a wonderful addition to their diet, and make for a fun treat.
The purchase of a Pied Crow should not be entered into lightly. This species is quite demanding, even more so than most parrots. They are also long-lived, averaging 20 years with good care.
Happy Halloween, dear ghouls and goblins! And if you would like to check out part two of our Halloween double feature, click here!
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