Corvus jamaicensis
The Jamaican Crow, also known locally as the 'Jabbering Crow' or 'Callee-Callee', is a medium-sized, glossy black corvid endemic to the island of Jamaica. Measuring approximately 35-38 cm (14-15 inches) in length with a wingspan around 60-70 cm and weighing 250-300 grams, it possesses a stout, slightly arched bill and dark eyes. Its plumage is uniformly iridescent black, reflecting blue and purple hues in strong light, without any seasonal variations or sexual dimorphism in appearance, though...
Found primarily in humid and dry limestone forests, woodland edges, and cultivated areas. It inhabits elevations from sea level up to around 1,200 meters (3,900 feet) in mountainous regions.
An opportunistic omnivore, its diet consists mainly of fruits, large insects, spiders, small lizards, eggs, nestlings, and occasionally carrion. It forages both in trees and on the ground, using its strong bill to probe and glean.
Jamaican Crows are diurnal and often seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, though they may form larger communal roosts outside the breeding season. They are highly arboreal, spending much of their time foraging in the canopy, but also descend to the ground for food. Courtship involves mu...
The Jamaican Crow is entirely endemic to the island of Jamaica, where it is a resident species found throughout the island's interior. Its distribution covers a wide range of elevations, from the coastal lowlands up into the mountainous regions, reaching heights of approximately 1,200 meters. Whi...
Least Concern
- The Jamaican Crow's vocalizations are so distinct they are often described as gurgling, rattling, or 'jabbering,' rather than the typical 'caw' of most crow species, leading to its local name 'Jabbering Crow'. - It is one of only four corvid species endemic to the Caribbean islands, showcasing ...