Sinaloa Crow

Overview

The Sinaloa Crow is a small corvid native to the Pacific coastal lowlands of western Mexico. It closely resembles and was formerly considered the same species as the Tamaulipas Crow found on the opposite side of the country.

Its range is limited to a fairly narrow coastal band, and it favors human-modified habitats within that region.

Feather Identification

Feathers are uniformly glossy black with a moderate sheen, compact in size relative to larger crow species given this bird's small build.

• Flight feathers: Short, compact primaries and secondaries.
• Tail feathers: Squared, glossy black tail feathers, proportionally short.
• Similar species: Essentially identical to the Tamaulipas Crow in feather appearance; the two are separated mainly by their non-overlapping coastal ranges in western versus northeastern Mexico.

Plumage Notes

Adults are uniformly glossy black with a moderate sheen across the body. Juveniles appear duller, gaining full adult gloss with age.

Sexes look alike. A complete annual molt follows the breeding season.

Habitat & Range

Sinaloa Crows are found in coastal scrub, farmland, and towns along the Pacific lowlands of western Mexico. They favor open, human-modified habitats within this coastal strip.

The species is resident, without significant migratory movement.

Behavior & Field Notes

This crow is social, often forming flocks around farmland, towns, and refuse sites. Diet is broad and opportunistic, similar to its close relative the Tamaulipas Crow.

Nests are stick platforms in trees or shrubs. Calls include distinctive low, froglike croaking notes rather than a typical sharp caw, similar to the Tamaulipas Crow. Its restricted Pacific coastal range in western Mexico is a key identification clue.