Fun Paradise Crow Facts For Kids
Gallery
Crows are often overlooked as birds. Despite their contribution to the ecosystem people do not pay much attention to them. However, the paradise crow (Lycocorax pyrrhopterus) is not one of your regular crows. It has a dark blue shimmery plumage that is truly eye-catching! It is a part of the birds of paradise family which has 42 different species.
The Lycocorax pyrrhopterus bird is also known as the golden crow (paradise bird) due to its shimmery feathers and it was first studied by the French ornithologist, Charles Lucien Bonaparte in 1850.
They are often confused with their subspecies, but one distinct feature which helps in their identification is the white patch on their inner wings which is only visible in flight.
This bird is categorized as a Least Concern species and it is common throughout its range.
Did you know this bird is monogamous which means it mates with only one partner for the rest of its life? Its diet also consists mainly of fruits. If you want to learn even more fascinating stuff about the paradise crow, read on.
For more relatable content, check out these mountain chickadee facts and American pipit facts for kids too.
Paradise Crow Interesting Facts
What type of animal is a paradise crow?
The Lycocorax pyrrhopterus (also known as paradise crow) is a type of monogamous bird that is in the family Paradisaeidae (birds of paradise).
What class of animal does a paradise crow belong to?
This medium-sized silky crow belongs to the Aves class of animals.
How many paradise crows are there in the world?
Statistics have been unable to assess the actual population of this species and its nominate subspecies. However, based on the extent of breeding and their resident occurrence, it can be inferred that their population is stable at the moment.
Where does a paradise crow live?
The geographical distribution of this species is limited. Paradise crows are indigenous to Indonesia's montane forests on the islands of Maluku Utara. The distribution of their population is relatively high in the lowland of Rau, Kasiruta, Bacan, and Morotai and is quite common in Halmahera.
What is a paradise crow's habitat?
A typical paradise crow habitat is found in lowland regions. This bird also tends to inhabit montane forests and deep evergreen woods. They are often found setting their homes amidst shrubs and bushes in agricultural lands.
Who do paradise crows live with?
For the most part, this monogamous bird lives alone, but some can be found in couples. Mingling with other species of birds in their habitat is not common. Young birds live closely with adults (primarily females) until they can fend for themselves.
How long does a paradise crow live?
The maximum number of years for which this bird lives is approximately eight years. There have been some reports of them living extended lives, but on average the paradise crow has a five-year life expectancy.
How do they reproduce?
This paradise crow is monogamous and oviparous, hence they procreate through spawning. The breeding seasons begin approximately in December and lasts until June, with an average of one egg per clutch.
A paradise crow egg is either gray-white or pale rose in color, with inconsistent blotches. A paradise crow nest is cup-shaped and is composed of lichens and bracts, and surrounded by log shavings.
The young bird's diet consists mainly of fruits fed by regurgitation. A lack of data makes it tough to predict more detailed breeding patterns and behaviors of these birds.
What is their conservation status?
Their distribution is widespread. For this reason, the IUCN Red List categorizes the paradise crow (Lycocorax pyrrhopterus) as a species of Least Concern.
It is classified under Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) which insinuates that this species is not on the verge of extinction yet, but perhaps will be at risk in a few years unless trade and habitat destruction are reduced.
Paradise Crow Fun Facts
What do paradise crows look like?
These birds of paradise are monogamous and medium-sized, having an overall black to deep brown plumage. The iris and beak are red and black, respectively, and the top of the head has a glazed finish.
There is a white patch on the inner parts of the wings and the upper plumage has a dark blue sparkle which is apparent under light. Compared to the head, the bosom and belly areas are lighter. Gray tones can be found on the mantle and rump.
The white patch on the inner part of the wings makes the identification of this species amidst its nominate subspecies pretty easy. The female is slightly smaller than the male.
We've been unable to source an image of a paradise crow and have used an image of a paradise tanager instead. If you are able to provide us with a royalty-free image of a paradise crow, we would be happy to credit you. Please contact us at hello@kidadl.comHow cute are they?
These are extremely adorable crows! The paradise crow (Lycocorax pyrrhopterus) is super cute.
How do they communicate?
They communicate by calling and growling. A paradise crow call is reminiscent of a dog's bark. The growl of this species is usually low pitched, just like a dog's bark.
How big is a paradise crow?
This species is medium-sized and is at least 16.5-17.5 in (42-44 cm) tall.
How fast can a paradise crow fly?
The exact speed at which these birds travel is unknown. Their light paradise crow feathers may contribute to their rapid wingbeats.
How much does a paradise crow weigh?
A paradise crow (Lycocorax pyrrhopterus) female is slightly smaller than a male, weighing between 9-11 oz (250-316 g). A male weighs up to 13 oz (370 g)
What are the male and female names of the species?
Apart from the difference in height, there aren't many differences between the two sexes. The paradise crow is monomorphic and does not possess different names for males and females. They are simply called paradise crow male birds and paradise crow female birds.
What would you call a baby paradise crow?
Juvenile birds go by the common name paradise crow chicks. A paradise crow baby is super cute.
What do they eat?
The paradise crow diet consists mainly of fruits and arthropods. It is also common for them to consume insects like snails, spiders, beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars in a considerable amount, hence they can be described as insectivorous. As their diet consists mainly of fruits they are also referred to as frugivorous. They are hunted by snakes, hawks, and owls.
Are they dangerous?
This species is not dangerous. It doesn't have a violent background with humans, but since they are birds of prey their nature is unpredictable.
Would they make a good pet?
It is illegal to own crows in almost all states of the U.S. and in many places throughout the world. Though species like pied crows are kept as pets, it is rare to come across crows as pets. The paradise crow is a bird of prey that belongs in the wild.
Did you know...
The nominate subspecies of this Lycocorax pyrrhopterus (also known as paradise crow) species make calls that consist of a double note sound like 'hoow hoow'.
All birds of paradise are said to evolve from a single crow-like bird from the 16th century.
This bird has two recognized nominate subspecies: Lycocorax pyrrhopterus pyrrhopterus and Lycocorax pyrrhopterus morotensis. Both of these subspecies are common in the islands of Indonesia.
Are paradise crows endangered?
The IUCN Red List has classified this species as Least Concern. A decrease in their population has been observed in the last few years. This species is not endangered at present, but considering the risk of habitat loss, they may become so in the near future.
How did the paradise crow get its name and what other names does it have?
The scientific name Lycocorax pyrrhopterus is a combination of the Greek terms 'lycos', which was a name for a jackdaw, 'corax' meaning 'raven', and 'pyrrhopterus', which means 'red-winged'. Owing to its shimmery appearance, the bird is also known as the silky crow.
It is also called the Halmahera paradise crow, referring to its native islands.
In ancient folklore, it is said that these birds are believed to be birds of God, hence the name 'paradise'. The specific name of the nominal subspecies, Lycocorax obiensis refers to the Obi Islands which they are native to.
Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly animal facts for everyone to discover! Learn more about some other birds from our rook facts and vesper sparrow facts pages.
You can even occupy yourself at home by drawing one on our free printable paradise crow coloring pages.
We Want Your Photos!
More for You
See All
Bachelor of Science specializing in Computer Science
Christian MbaBachelor of Science specializing in Computer Science
Christian Mba is an experienced blogger and content writer with over a decade of experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Nigeria and has a keen interest in Python programming. Along with his writing and blogging expertise, he is also an SEO specialist with more than six years of experience. Chris, as he is commonly known, has a passion for music and enjoys playing the piano.
Disclaimer
1) Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. If you purchase using the Buy Now button we may earn a small commission. This does not influence our choices. Prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published but we cannot guarantee that on the time of reading. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content.
2) At Kidadl, we strive to recommend the very best activities and events. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
3) Because we are an educational resource, we have quotes and facts about a range of historical and modern figures. We do not endorse the actions of or rhetoric of all the people included in these collections, but we think they are important for growing minds to learn about under the guidance of parents or guardians.
