Corvus pusillus
The Palawan Crow, scientifically known as Corvus pusillus, is an engaging member of the Corvid family, often considered a distinctive subspecies of the widespread Large-billed Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos pusillus). This medium-sized corvid measures approximately 45-50 cm in length with a wingspan of around 85-95 cm, weighing between 350-500 grams. Its plumage is entirely glossy black, often exhibiting iridescent purple and blue sheens under good light, a characteristic shared with many crow sp...
The Palawan Crow primarily inhabits lowland and hill forests, forest edges, agricultural areas, and coastal mangroves. It is frequently observed near human settlements and cultivated lands, ranging from sea level to moderate elevations.
An opportunistic omnivore, the Palawan Crow consumes a wide variety of food, including insects, small vertebrates, eggs, nestlings, fruits, seeds, carrion, and human refuse. It forages primarily by gleaning, probing, and scavenging on the ground and within trees.
Palawan Crows are diurnal and highly intelligent, often seen foraging alone, in pairs, or small family groups, typically forming larger, noisy communal roosts in tall trees at night. Their foraging strategies are highly adaptable and opportunistic; they meticulously glean insects from foliage, pr...
The Palawan Crow is exclusively resident within the Palawan Faunal Region of the southwestern Philippines. Its primary distribution encompasses the main island of Palawan, extending to smaller associated islands such as Busuanga, Culion, Calauit, and Balabac. This species is non-migratory, remain...
Least Concern
- The Palawan Crow is endemic to Palawan Island and its satellite islands in the Philippines, making it one of the most geographically restricted crow species. - Despite its restricted range, it exhibits the remarkable adaptability and intelligence typical of the Corvid family, often observed sol...