An American professor has embarked on a study looking at the lives of crows in Bermuda.

Paul Hackett has joined forces with the Bermuda Audubon Society in a bid to gather over a year’s worth of data on crows with the help of local birdwatchers.

The research project will run over an 18-month period and aims to provide in-depth information on population statistics, behaviour and stories about American crows.

“The crow survey is coming along well and I want to thank the Audubon Society and their colleagues for sending in the reports,” Mr Hackett said.

“I am also asking Bermudians to send in their stories of crows on the island along with fables, myths and any other anecdotes they have about these birds.”

He added that he had chosen Bermuda as the venue for the project because the island has a resident population of these birds that are relatively, or completely, indigenous.

Andrew Dobson, president of the Bermuda Audubon Society, told The Royal Gazette members were keen to provide data for the study.

He said: “We already have members involved in citizen science projects including the Christmas Bird Count and eBird; a massive database of bird sightings managed by Cornell University.

“It gives even more people the opportunity to participate without being an expert birdwatcher.

“Everybody recognises crows, as the only large black bird to inhabit Bermuda.

“Crows are known for their intelligence and ability to solve problems. It will be interesting to learn about any interesting behaviour exhibited by Bermuda’s crows.”

The survey can be completed on a computer, tablet or on a phone and does not require a participant to provide extensive personal details. All information will be confidential between the research team and Bermuda Audubon Society.

To complete the survey go to www.hackettspace.com/crow-behaviour-bda