Corvus hawaiiensis
The Hawaiian Crow, locally known as the ʻAlalā, is a medium-sized corvid, measuring approximately 48-50 cm (19-20 in) in length with a wingspan of about 92 cm (36 in) and weighing 500-650 g. Its plumage is uniformly dull black, often exhibiting a subtle brownish sheen, especially on the primaries, which can be a key field mark differentiating it from other dark Hawaiian birds. It possesses a strong, slightly decurved bill, dark brown eyes, and robust black legs. Historically, its distinctive,...
Historically, the ʻAlalā inhabited mid-elevation (900-1800 m) mesic and wet 'Ōhiʻa-Koa forests on Hawaiʻi Island, primarily in the Kona and Kaʻū districts.
The Hawaiian Crow is an omnivore, primarily consuming native fruits, insects, small invertebrates, bird eggs, and nestlings, foraging both arboreally and terrestrially.
ʻAlalā are diurnal birds, historically observed engaging in communal roosting at night, especially during non-breeding seasons. Their foraging strategies are highly versatile; they are omnivorous, gleaning insects and larvae from bark and foliage, probing in leaf litter, and consuming a wide vari...
The Hawaiian Crow, or ʻAlalā, was historically endemic solely to the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, primarily found in the moist and dry 'Ōhiʻa-Koa forests within the Kona and Kaʻū districts. Before its extinction in the wild in 2002, its range had severely contracted to just a few fragmented forest patc...
Critically Endangered
- The ʻAlalā is one of the few non-primate species known to consistently use tools in the wild, a behavior first extensively documented in captive populations. - It is the only crow species native to the Hawaiian Islands and is culturally significant in Hawaiian lore, often considered a guardian ...