House crow

The house crow, also known as the Indian crow, grey-necked crow, Ceylon crow, or Colombo crow, is a prominent member of the crow family. Native to Asia, it has proliferated across different parts of the world, largely due to human activities. Smaller and more slender than both the jackdaw and the carrion crow, this bird is characterized by a glossy black head and upper breast, a grey-brown neck and lower breast, and black wings, tail, and legs. Variations in plumage coloration and bill thickness do occur depending on the subspecies.

House crows are prevalent in southern Asia and have been introduced to areas such as East Africa, Australia (from where they have since been eradicated), Europe, and the United States. These birds are commonly found around human settlements, ranging from small villages to large cities, due to their omnivorous scavenging habits and adaptability to urban environments.

As an invasive species, house crows have a remarkable ability to spread across tropical regions, often closely following human habitation. Their diet is diverse, comprising garbage, small animals, insects, fruits, and grains. Typically, they build their nests in trees and lay about 3-5 eggs. They are frequently seen roosting near human dwellings and are recognized for their distinct, harsh calls.

However, house crows can pose significant challenges. They have the potential to affect human health adversely, as they are known to spread diseases like paramyxoviruses and pathogens such as Cryptococcus neoformans. While they exhibit strong adaptability and reproductive success, certain populations are susceptible to blood parasites in specific regions.