SOMAN RAGAVAN
1 January, 2025
Subject : Domineering crows
Analysis by You Chat AI
(Artificial Intelligence)
Volume 9
(1)
Soman Ragavan :
Hello. I live in Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean. I will write about crows in Mauritius. Here is some information about crows in general.
From the Internet :
“House crows Corvus splendens (Vieillot) have become well-established in Mauritius, where they pose several urban and environmental problems.”
“It maintains a territory year-round in which the entire extended family lives and forages together. But during much of the year, individual crows leave the home territory to join large flocks at dumps and agricultural fields, and to sleep in large roosts in winter.”
“Crows help control pest insects and “clean up” dead animals and garbage that has been scattered by other animals. Although crows prey on songbirds and their young, research suggests that they do not ordinarily have a significant impact on songbird populations.”
“Scientists compare the intelligence of crows to that of a seven-year-old human child. Crows, ravens, and other corvids are the only non-primates capable of making tools. Crows are capable of abstract reasoning, complex problem-solving, and group decision-making.”
“Crows and ravens are some of the smartest animals in the world, with their intelligence considered on par with chimpanzees. The New Caledonian Crow is probably the most famous example of one sign of intelligence—tool use—but this behavior has been recorded in several other species of Corvus as well.25 Aug 2021”
“The corvids (ravens, crows, jays, magpies, etc.) and psittacines (parrots, macaws, and cockatoos) are often considered the most intelligent birds, and are among the most intelligent animals in general.”
“The study from the University of Washington undeniably contributes to affirming the crows\' place in the intelligence hierarchy among birds. Crows, it appears, are creatures of memory, holding on to grudges and recalling threats even after a lengthy span of 17 years.12 Nov 2024”
Full acknowledgements are made to the authors, publishers and rights-holders.
Internet link :
https://www.google.com/search?q=how+was+the+crows+population+controlled+in+Mauritius&sca_esv=520ebc38deb93fb9&source=hp&ei=yL50Z__DJ6eqhbIPi5-52AM&iflsig=AL9hbdgAAAAAZ3TM2GHw7rxFuvgOGgZEQoYUfNBO_OFk&ved=0ahUKEwj_x4Sh0tOKAxUnVUEAHYtPDjsQ4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=how+was+the+crows+population+controlled+in+Mauritius&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IjRob3cgd2FzIHRoZSBjcm93cyBwb3B1bGF0aW9uIGNvbnRyb2xsZWQgaW4gTWF1cml0aXVzMgUQIRigAUiAbVCsDVj5Z3ABeACQAQGYAbQEoAHNa6oBCjItNDguMi4xLjG4AQPIAQD4AQGYAjOgAp9oqAIAwgIFEAAYgATCAg4QABiABBixAxiDARiKBcICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIIEAAYgAQYsQPCAhQQLhiABBixAxiDARjHARiKBRivAcICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIoFwgIEEAAYA8ICCBAuGIAEGNQCwgIFEC4YgATCAgYQABgWGB7CAggQABgWGAoYHsICCxAAGIAEGIYDGIoFwgIIEAAYgAQYogTCAgcQIRigARgKmAMD8QXVnMglMY2AvZIHCDItNDguMi4xoAei8QE&sclient=gws-wiz
(2)
You Chat AI :
(3)
Soman Ragavan :
In Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, there are public gardens at one place, where crows live in trees. At night fall they gather again in the trees and make an infernal noise for some time. The noise is particularly noticeable. It is not clear why they do so.
(4)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Responding
#### Introduction
Hello Soman! It’s great that you’re writing about crows in Mauritius. They are fascinating birds with complex behaviors and significant intelligence. Let’s dive into the information you provided and explore some key points.
#### Overview of Crows in Mauritius
Crows, particularly **House Crows (Corvus splendens)**, have established themselves in Mauritius and are known to cause various urban and environmental challenges. Here are some of the notable aspects of their behavior and intelligence:
- Crows maintain a territory year-round with their extended family.
- They often leave their home territory to forage in larger groups at dumps or agricultural fields.
- Crows play a crucial role in controlling pest populations and cleaning up carrion and garbage.
- While they do prey on songbirds, their overall impact on these populations is not significant.
- Crows are known for their remarkable intelligence, comparable to that of a **seven-year-old human child**.
- They are capable of **tool-making**, abstract reasoning, and complex problem-solving.
- Research indicates that crows can hold grudges and remember threats for up to **17 years**.
- Crows often join large flocks during certain times of the year, especially in winter, for roosting and foraging.
- Crows and other corvids are often regarded as some of the smartest birds, alongside psittacines like parrots and cockatoos.
#### Conclusion
Crows are not just birds; they are intelligent and adaptive creatures that have a significant impact on their environment. Your focus on their behavior and role in Mauritius will surely highlight their importance in the ecosystem. If you need more specific information or insights, feel free to ask!
#### Additional Resources
You can check the link you provided for more information on how the crow population is managed in Mauritius: [Crows Population Control in Mauritius](https://www.google.com/search?q=how+was+the+crows+population+controlled+in+Mauritius&sca_esv=520ebc38deb93fb9&source=hp&ei=yL50Z__DJ6eqhbIPi5-52AM&iflsig=AL9hbdgAAAAAZ3TM2GHw7rxFuvgOGgZEQoYUfNBO_OFk&ved=0ahUKEwj_x4Sh0tOKAxUnVUEAHYtPDjsQ4dUDCA8&uact=5&oq=how+was+the+crows+population+controlled+in+Mauritius&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IjRob3cgd2FzIHRoZSBjcm93cyBwb3B1bGF0aW9uIGNvbnRyb2xsZWQgaW4gTWF1cml0aXVzMgUQIRigAUiAbVCsDVj5Z3ABeACQAQGYAbQEoAHNa6oBCjItNDguMi4xLjG4AQPIAQD4AQGYAjOgAp9oqAIAwgIFEAAYgATCAg4QABiABBixAxiDARiKBcICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIIEAAYgAQYsQPCAhQQLhiABBixAxiDARjHARiKBRivAcICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIoFwgIEEAAYA8ICCBAuGIAEGNQCwgIFEC4YgATCAgYQABgWGB7CAggQABgWGAoYHsICCxAAGIAEGIYDGIoFwgIIEAAYgAQYogTCAgcQIRigARgKmAMD8QXVnMglMY2AvZIHCDItNDguMi4xoAei8QE&sclient=gws-wiz)
(5)
Soman Ragavan :
The noise is intriguing and exasperating. Crows behave as if they are entitled, they respect nothing and nobody, they will make loud noises as if they don’t care about others, nor do they fear others. Perhaps they realise that “there is safety in numbers.” Groups of lionesses, wild dogs and hyenas, too, are conscious of their collective strength while hunting. In this case, the crows have returned to their nests at nightfall.
Sometimes crows form a small group and travel to other places. They have a domineering attitude and swoop down on other birds to scare them away and rule the place for some moments. Other birds do fly away in these circumstances. The crows do so to claim territory for a few moments or to feed. Then they move away. They can be easily recognized by their raucous cries and their completely dark bodies. Even the beaks and feet are totally black. In contrast, with the myna bird, the body colour is brownish black, but the beak and feet are bright yellow.
(6)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Searching
# Responding
#### Crows: Behavior and Characteristics
Crows are indeed fascinating creatures, and your observations about their behavior in Mauritius highlight their complex social dynamics and interactions with other birds. Here are some key points based on your description:
- Crows often exhibit a **domineering attitude**, especially when they gather in groups. This behavior allows them to assert dominance over other birds, often scaring them away to claim territory or access food.
- Their loud and raucous calls contribute to their presence, making it clear that they are not shy about asserting themselves in their environment.
- The phrase \"safety in numbers\" is particularly relevant for crows. By forming groups, they can deter potential threats and enhance their foraging success. This collective behavior is similar to that seen in other social animals, such as lionesses and wild dogs, which also rely on group strength for hunting and protection.
- Crows are easily identifiable by their **entirely black bodies**, including their beaks and feet. This distinguishes them from other birds, such as the myna, which has a brownish-black body with bright yellow beak and feet.
- Crows will often swoop down on other birds to establish temporary control over an area. This behavior is not just about feeding but also about asserting their presence and dominance in a given territory.
#### Conclusion
Your insights into the behavior of crows in Mauritius paint a vivid picture of their social interactions and ecological roles. Their intelligence and assertiveness make them unique among birds, and their ability to adapt to urban environments adds to their intrigue. If you have more specific aspects you\'d like to explore or any other questions, feel free to ask!
(7)
Soman Ragavan :
The crows seem to have perfected this act of scaring other birds away when they alight at one place. They have a commanding attitude and they show self-assurance. They are most of the time in groups, which probably makes them feel stronger. They want to be the rulers of the sky. They appear to be conscious of their group power.
(8)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Searching
# Responding
#### Crows: Commanding Presence and Behavior
Your observations about crows in Mauritius highlight their **self-assured and commanding demeanor**. Here are some insights into their behavior and social dynamics:
- Crows often display a **domineering attitude** when they gather in groups. This collective presence likely enhances their confidence, making them feel more powerful and assertive in their environment.
- Their ability to scare away other birds is a strategic behavior that allows them to claim territory and resources, reinforcing their status as \"rulers of the sky.\"
- The **consciousness of group power** plays a significant role in their interactions. By being in numbers, crows can intimidate smaller birds, which often flee when faced with a group of crows. This behavior is not just about feeding; it’s also about establishing dominance over their surroundings.
- Crows are easily recognized by their **raucous cries** and entirely black plumage, which sets them apart from other birds like the myna. This distinct appearance and vocalization contribute to their commanding presence in the avian community.
#### Conclusion
Crows are remarkable for their social structures and behaviors, which reflect their intelligence and adaptability. Your insights into their commanding nature and group dynamics provide a deeper understanding of how they interact with their environment and other species. If you have more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!
(9)
Soman Ragavan :
Wild dogs, lionesses and hyenas, too, proceed in a coordinated way when attacking preys. With hyenas, it is hit-and-run, attrition tactics to wear down the opponent. Crows, too, proceed in groups and coordinate their moves.
(10)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Searching
# Responding
#### Crows: Coordination and Group Behavior
Your comparison of crows to wild dogs, lionesses, and hyenas in terms of coordinated group behavior is quite insightful. Here are some key points regarding how crows exhibit similar tactics:
- Just like wild dogs and hyenas, crows often operate in groups to enhance their effectiveness when foraging or defending territory. Their ability to coordinate movements allows them to intimidate other birds and claim resources more efficiently.
- Crows can employ various strategies when interacting with other species. For instance, they may use **hit-and-run tactics** similar to those of hyenas, where they quickly swoop in to scare off competitors before retreating. This method helps them to conserve energy while still asserting dominance.
- Crows are known for their protective nature, often circling and vocalizing to deter potential threats. This coordinated effort serves to intimidate intruders, showcasing their ability to work together effectively in the face of danger.
- The intelligence of crows allows them to engage in complex social interactions. Their ability to remember individuals and past encounters contributes to their strategic behavior in groups, making them formidable in both foraging and territorial disputes.
#### Conclusion
Crows are remarkable for their social structures and coordinated behaviors, which reflect their intelligence and adaptability. Your observations highlight the parallels between crows and other social predators, emphasizing their strategic approach to survival. If you have more questions or would like to explore further, feel free to ask!
(11)
Soman Ragavan :
Please summarise your points and say how crows differentiate themselves as hunting machines.
(12)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Responding
#### Summary of Crows as Hunting Machines
Crows exhibit several characteristics that differentiate them as effective \"hunting machines\" in the avian world:
- Crows operate in groups, allowing them to coordinate their movements effectively when foraging or defending territory. This collective strategy enhances their success in intimidating other birds and claiming resources.
- They employ various tactics, including **hit-and-run strategies**, to scare off competitors quickly. This method helps them conserve energy while maintaining dominance over their feeding areas.
- Crows possess high levels of intelligence, enabling them to engage in complex social interactions. Their ability to remember individuals and past encounters aids in their strategic behavior during group interactions.
- They are known for their protective nature, often vocalizing and circling to deter potential threats. This behavior showcases their ability to work together effectively in the face of danger.
#### Conclusion
Crows differentiate themselves as hunting machines by combining **intelligence, social coordination, and tactical approaches**. Their mastery of group dynamics and strategic behaviors allows them to thrive in various environments, making them formidable competitors in the avian realm. If you have any further questions or topics you\'d like to discuss, just let me know!
(13)
Soman Ragavan :
Hit-and-run strategies apply in particular to hyenas, not to crows. In the case of crows, they swoop down in intimidating manners and try to scare their opponents away. They work in groups and are conscient of their group strength. They use their raucous cries as a weapon. They are larger than most other birds in Mauritius. Their coordinated scare tactics are successful.
(14)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Responding
#### Understanding Crows\' Scare Tactics
Thank you for your clarification! Let\'s refine the summary to focus specifically on the behaviors that make crows effective in asserting dominance:
- Crows often **swoop down** on other birds in a show of intimidation, using their size and bold movements to scare opponents away. This behavior demonstrates their confidence and assertiveness.
- They are highly social birds that work in **groups**, which enhances their collective strength. This group mentality empowers them to take control of a territory or feeding area effectively.
- Crows use their **raucous cries** strategically, employing vocalizations to assert dominance and communicate with each other, further enhancing their intimidating presence.
- Being generally larger than many other birds in Mauritius gives crows a physical advantage, allowing them to intimidate smaller species more easily.
- Their coordinated scare tactics have proven to be successful in driving away competitors, showcasing their effectiveness as dominant foragers.
#### Conclusion
Crows differentiate themselves as powerful avian competitors through their **intimidating behaviors, group coordination, vocal strategies, and size**. These attributes allow them to successfully assert dominance in their environment. If you have more insights or questions, feel free to share!
(15)
Soman Ragavan :
Thank you very much. Goodbye for now.
(16)
You Chat AI :
# Thinking
# Responding
#### Farewell
You\'re very welcome! I\'m glad I could assist you. If you have more questions in the future or need assistance, don\'t hesitate to reach out.
**Goodbye for now, and take care!**
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