Why is the (former) Northwestern Crow not a subspecies of American? (1 Viewer)

[Fandango739]

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For years I had wanted to claim a Northwestern Crow. With a recent venture to Washington State (USA), I finally had my chance. Except now there is no Northwestern Crow. It has been lumped in with the American Crow. Yet, even I could easily tell that some of the local crows were notably smaller, had a leaner beak and a slightly duller looking coat. I can understand the combining in general, but why has the Northwestern Crow been denied at least a subspecies status?

Any insight?

Many thanks!

 

[Mysticete]

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For years I had wanted to claim a Northwestern Crow. With a recent venture to Washington State (USA), I finally had my chance. Except now there is no Northwestern Crow. It has been lumped in with the American Crow. Yet, even I could easily tell that some of the local crows were notably smaller, had a leaner beak and a slightly duller looking coat. I can understand the combining in general, but why has the Northwestern Crow been denied at least a subspecies status?

Any insight?

Many thanks!

Clements still has it as a valid subspecies (C. brachyrhynchus caurinus) under American Crow. I don't think the subspecies was ever officially sunk, as the North American Checklist committee does not manage subspecies at present (despite saying they would like to in the future). I haven't checked what IOC does.

 

[Jacana]

The IOC retains it as a subspecies of American Crow

 

[Fandango739]

Odd, as I have not been able to access it via the eBird list for coastal Washington State.
Thanks for letting me know!

 

[Mysticete]

Odd, as I have not been able to access it via the eBird list for coastal Washington State.
Thanks for letting me know!

ebird only includes subspecies groups. It's not going to have every subspecies, as many only present minor differences and may not be safely identified. A lot of Northwestern Crows, according to genetics, fall in that category.