MAGPIES, JAYS, CROWS: WESTERN CROW 
495 
and winter the species becomes common in the northern and also the northwestern parts 
of the State, for “while holding rather accurately to its breeding range, it crosses over 
somewhat in the Rio Grande, Puerco, and Rluewater Valleys, doubtless for food in 
irrigated districts (Ligon). It was found spreading out over the country west to 
Lake La Jara, in September, 1904 (Bailey); great numbers were seen in December, 
1909, about the fields of Laguna; it appears in the western part of the State at Luna; 
and drops down into the White Mountains near Mesealero on the Ruidoso [those seen 
in February, 1917, 16 miles south of Lamy were headed south, evidently on their 
way to the White Mountains (Ligon) ]. During several years’ residence in southern 
New Mexico, Doctor Henry saw only two birds, both at Fort Webster, but a small 
flock was seen in April, 1876, on the Upper Mimbres (Stephens); and one was taken 
October 14, 1898, at Ruidoso (Barber). The most western records are from Catron 
County—Bill Night Gap, where two were seen at about 8,400 feet, 15 miles from the 
Arizona line, and from Luna about 5 miles from the line (Ligon). 
Shaded 
Map 38. Western Crow 
areas show general range. Triangles mark breeding and breeding 
season records 
