Celebrated as being among the most intelligent of birds, this species is smarter than the average mammal, including a fair portion of humanity. A relatively small crow, mostly unremarkable looking with black plumage overall. The bill is oddly wedge-shaped for a crow, and it is known to use twigs as tools while foraging. Found throughout New Caledonia, but most abundant in higher-quality forest. Most common call a quick, nasal rising note.