Crows, members of the family Corvidae, are among the most intelligent birds globally, possessing complex social structures and impressive problem-solving abilities. The act of “calling” crows refers to purposefully attracting them either through vocalizations that mimic their communication or by creating an environment rich in desirable resources. Successfully engaging with these birds requires a consistent and nuanced approach that respects their natural caution and communication methods.
Vocal Techniques for Attracting Crows
Attracting a crow through vocal imitation relies on replicating the rough, guttural quality of their primary call, the “caw.” Human vocalists achieve this by combining a falsetto or “hooing” sound made high in the throat with a secondary, lower “guttural” sound, often described as a throat garble. This two-part technique creates a harsh, throaty sound that carries well over distance, reaching crows not already in the immediate vicinity.
A common mistake is blowing continuously, as natural crow calls are brief and deliberate, separated by distinct pauses. For a simple contact call, a mid-range “caw” lasting about one second, followed by a three to five-second pause, is more effective than continuous noise. For an urgent message, such as an assembly or rally call, a rapid sequence of five or more sharp caws can pique the curiosity of nearby birds. Handheld crow callers can also assist in modulating the tone and air pressure to better match a natural crow’s cadence.
Establishing a Feeding Station
The most consistent method for attracting crows is establishing a reliable and safe feeding station. Crows are omnivores, particularly drawn to high-protein and high-fat foods, especially during colder months or nesting season. Excellent offerings include unsalted peanuts in the shell or high-quality, pea-sized dog or cat kibble. Other suitable supplements are hard-boiled eggs, suet, and small pieces of unseasoned meat or fruit like grapes and blueberries.
Consistency is paramount; food should be offered at the same time each day to integrate the station into the crow’s foraging routine. Food should be placed on a wide, open platform feeder or directly on the ground in a safe, highly visible location, as crows are too large for most standard bird feeders. A fresh source of water, such as a shallow birdbath, is also a significant draw, as crows often use water to soften hard food items. Limit the portion size to a treat to supplement their diet, rather than create a dependency, and clean the area regularly to prevent mold, spoilage, or the attraction of unwanted pests.
Decoding Common Crow Calls
Understanding the crows’ language allows for a more informed interaction, as their vocalizations reflect their current mood and intent. The meaning of a crow’s call is determined by the number of repetitions and the tone’s urgency.
Alarm and Rally Calls
A sequence of three quick, sharp caws functions as an alarm call, alerting the group to potential danger, such as a predatory hawk or a human perceived as too close. When crows repeat their “caw” five or more times in a row, it serves as a rallying signal, used to gather the group for mobbing a large predator or addressing a serious threat.
Conversational and Social Calls
A simpler, more measured call of two caws with a noticeable pause is generally a conversational check-in, confirming location with other members of the group. Softer, rhythmic caws, sometimes accompanied by clicks or rattles, are used for close-range social bonding, courtship, or communication within the immediate family unit. Recognizing these distinctions helps gauge the birds’ comfort level.
Responsible Crow Interaction
Interacting with crows requires ethical practices to ensure the well-being of the birds and the local ecosystem. A primary concern is avoiding habituation, which occurs when a wild animal becomes overly reliant on human-provided resources. To prevent this, limit the amount of food offered and avoid making the feeding a constant, predictable supply.
Safety and Regulations
Remain aware of local regulations, as some municipalities prohibit feeding wildlife to prevent the spread of disease or the creation of nuisance flocks. During the spring and summer nesting season, avoid their territories, as crows become highly protective and may exhibit aggressive behavior toward perceived threats.
Observation Etiquette
When observing or feeding, maintain a calm, non-threatening posture and avoid direct, prolonged eye contact, as crows can perceive a direct gaze as a predatory threat. Maintaining cleanliness by regularly sanitizing feeding platforms and discarding old food prevents the growth of harmful bacteria and the attraction of rodents.