pyrrhocorax

Pyrrhocorax is a genus of passerine birds in the family Corvidae, comprising two species: Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax, the red-billed chough, and Pyrrhocorax graculus, the Alpine chough. Both are medium-sized, wholly black corvids with a robust, slightly curved bill and a metallic gloss to the plumage. They are highly adapted to rugged, open habitats and are commonly seen on cliffs, talus slopes, and high-altitude pastures, though the red-billed chough can also occur in coastal and lowland areas when conditions permit.

Distribution and habitat: The two species occur across the Palearctic. The red-billed chough has a broad range in Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, while the Alpine chough is primarily found in high mountains of southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. They favor rocky, exposed terrain with available foraging opportunities and nest sites in crevices on cliffs or buildings.

Behavior and diet: They are social, often in small flocks outside the breeding season. Diet is omnivorous, including insects, seeds, berries, carrion, and occasionally human food scraps. They are agile ground foragers and may be seen hopping among rocks while foraging.

Breeding: Both species nest in cavities on cliffs or in ruins, or sometimes in buildings. The clutch usually contains several eggs; both parents incubate and feed the chicks. Incubation lasts roughly two to three weeks, and fledging occurs several weeks after hatch.

Taxonomy and name: The genus name Pyrrhocorax comes from Greek roots meaning red or russet and raven. The IUCN currently regards both species as of least concern due to their wide ranges and stable populations.