Large-Billed Crow, in Tokyo

This Large-billed Crow was another pleasant surprise while waiting for the runners at the 19th kilometre of the men’s marathon at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Loud, boisterous and polite, just like the spectators lined up along the course.

It rested on a high lamppost for about two minutes before shuffling to a nearby rooftop where he sat when I snapped this photo. A moment later he was gone, the first and last crow I would see in my two weeks in Tokyo.

In brief (with assist from WordPress AI):

• Size: Length: 45-50 cm (18-20 in); Wingspan: 90-100 cm (35-39 in)
• Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on insects, seeds, fruits, and small vertebrates.
• Habitat: Prefers open woodlands, agricultural areas, and urban environments.
• Physical Description: Notable for its large, stout bill and black plumage with a distinctive sheen.
• Breeding: Breeds in trees or on cliffs; nests made of sticks lined with softer materials; typically lays 3-6 eggs.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern; populations are stable, but habitat loss poses a potential risk.
• Unique Behaviors: Known for its intelligence; capable of using tools and exhibiting problem-solving behavior.
• Range and Migration: Found across Asia and parts of Europe; some populations are migratory, moving south during winter.

More:

• Large-billed Crow at Birds of the World
• Large-billed Crow at BirdLife DataZone
• Large-billed Crow at eBird
• Large-billed Crow at Avibase
• Large-billed Crow at Wikipedia
• Large-billed Crow at iNaturalist

Photo from 15 September 2025.