Acoustic Signals of House Crow, Corvus splendens splendens Vieillot, LJP 1817 in Agricultural Landscapes of Punjab

Animal acoustic studies are valuable for understanding behaviour and ecological dynamics. Birds, which occupy diverse ecological roles, are key subjects in such studies. This research focuses on the acoustic signals of the House Crow (Corvus splendens splendens Vieillot, LJP 1817) in agricultural ecosystems during both breeding and non-breeding seasons. The study was conducted at selected sites in Punjab Agricultural University (Ludhiana) and Ahmedgarh (Sangrur), Punjab. Acoustic signals were recorded and analyzed using Raven Pro 1.5 software. Five distinct types of vocalizations were identified, with four occurring in the non-breeding season and one in the breeding season. Calls associated with perching and feeding activities varied between locations. During the breeding season, the House Crow exhibited reduced vocal activity, likely as a strategy to minimize predator attention. Spectrographic cross-correlation of breeding calls revealed regional differences. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the behavioral ecology of the House Crow in agricultural landscapes.