Comparative study of territoriality and habitat use in syntopic Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) and Carrion Crow (C. corone)

Abstract

Jungle Crows (Corvus macrorhynchos) and Carrion Crows (C. corone) are common species in Japan. They are closely related and considered ecological “generalists”. I carried out a comparative study on territory and habitat use of these crows in an area where they occur syntopically. The two species defended their territories both intra- and interspecifically. The feeding behavior on the ground and the microhabitats in the territories differed between the species. Jungle Crow territories contained more urban areas, and they foraged mainly at garbage stations. In contrast, Carrion Crows mainly foraged in natural or at least un-paved microhabitats and stayed longer on the ground. Differences in microhabitat use and feeding behavior seemed to contribute to ecological separation between the two species of crows.