HOUSE CROW PROGRAMME
The invasive house crow poses a serious threat to human health and our native bird species
The invasive House crow, Corvus splendens, is originally from Southern Asia. It was introduced in South Africa in 1972, and Cape Town in 1977.
Why are house crows a problem?
- This species has a high reproduction potential and they often out-compete the native bird species.
- House crows also prey on the eggs and nestlings of the
resident bird populations. - The are highly invasive along coastal cities in Africa.
- They are generally noisy and disruptive in urban areas and can pose an hygienic threat to street vendors.
- House crows at times also mob children and steals food.
- Studies show that they may act as carriers for diseases which can be passed on to humans.
NCC is the sole service provider of the City of Cape Town’s House Crows Control Programme from 10/09/2024 to 30/06/2025.
INDENTIFICATION
- Slender bird, about 40cm from head to tail.
- Black head with grey-brown neck/collar feathers
- Glossy-black wings and back
- Relatively large beak and long, black legs
CALL
House crow calls are excessive in the morning hours between 7am and 8am.
*Disclaimer: The embedded video below is merely an example and were not paid for and does not imply that this channel is favoured or endorsed by NCC Group.