Indian House Crows and Kenya's Plan to Eliminate Them

The Kenyan government has announced an action plan to eliminate a million Indian House Crows (Corvus splendens) by the end of 2024 due to their significant negative impact on local ecosystems and nuisance to the public, particularly in the Kenyan coastal region.

1. This decision highlights the importance of addressing invasive species and their impact on biodiversity and ecosystem balance.

Invasive Indian House Crows

1. Origin and Introduction: Indian House Crows, native to India and parts of Asia, are considered an invasive alien species in East Africa. Their introduction is believed to be linked to shipping activities.
2. Ecological Impact: These crows are aggressive predators that prey on endangered local bird species, destroy nests, and consume eggs and chicks. This predatory behavior has led to a significant decline in indigenous bird populations. The resulting imbalance in the ecosystem allows pests and insects to flourish, further harming the environment.
3. Past Efforts: Kenya has attempted to control the Indian House Crow population before. Over 20 years ago, a similar effort managed to temporarily reduce their numbers, but the problem has resurfaced.

Kenya's Action Plan

The Kenyan government's action plan involves a multi-pronged approach to eliminate the invasive crows:

1. Mechanical and Targeted Culling: This involves physically removing crows through trapping and targeted elimination.
2. Licensed Poison: The government plans to use a licensed poison to control the crow population. This method is controversial due to potential risks to other species, but the government believes it's necessary to address the scale of the problem.

Key Facts About Indian House Crows:

1. Scientific Name: Corvus splendens
2. Common names: Indian house crow, house crow, Indian crow, grey-necked crow, Ceylon crow, Colombo crow
3. Family: Corvidae
4. Taxonomy: The nominate race of Corvus splendens (C. splendens) exists in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh and has a grey neck collar.
5. Conservation Status:
   1. IUCN Status: Least Concerned
   2. Legal Status: Schedule II under the Wildlife Protection Act (India)
6. Habitat and Distribution: Indian House Crows are found in urban and rural areas, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural lands.
7. Behavior and Diet: They are omnivores, feeding on a wide range of food sources, including insects, fruits, grains, and small animals.

 

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