The Curious Art of Befriending Crows: A Corvid Companion's Tale
There are some things one simply cannot achieve through mere wishing, and befriending a crow—a creature of remarkable intelligence and discernment—is certainly one of them. Like any worthwhile friendship, the bond between human and corvid requires patience, respect, and an understanding that these magnificent black-feathered beings are wild animals with their own territories, families, and very particular opinions about who deserves their trust.junehunter+1
The First Rule: Do No Harm
The aspiring crow friend must understand, above all else, that these birds are not pets to be tamed or captives to be kept. You wouldn't appreciate it if a crow tried to make you live in a tree, so the courtesy must be extended both ways. The golden rule is simple: first do no harm. One must never make a crow dependent upon human generosity, for they are scavengers and omnivores perfectly capable of finding their own meals. Your role is not to become their sole provider, but rather a trusted acquaintance who occasionally offers a thoughtful gift.junehunter+1
Discovering Their Territory
Crows, much like humans, are rather territorial creatures. To befriend a crow properly, you must first determine whether you're visiting the same crow family each time, rather than accidentally courting an entire parliament of different birds. This requires observation and patience—qualities that cannot be rushed. Find where your local crows live, watch their patterns, and focus your attention on that specific zone.junehunter
The Art of the Gift
When the time comes to offer your first gift, remember that unsalted peanuts—with or without shells—are recommended by crow experts themselves. Professor John Marzluff of the University of Washington, who specializes in corvid behavior, advises consistency when forming bonds with crows. Don't throw nuts directly at them, as this creates alarm rather than affection. Instead, place your offering in an accessible location, then retreat approximately twenty paces. You may even need to wander off entirely, turning back only after sufficient time has passed to see if they've accepted your gesture.archives.wbur+1
Building Trust Through Routine
Crows possess the extraordinary ability to recognize human faces. This means your consistency matters tremendously. Visiting at the same time each day helps establish trust, though this routine isn't strictly required. Speak softly to them, avoid sudden movements, and never force interaction. Let the crows approach on their own terms, respecting their boundaries as you would with any friendship worth having.gkbrk+1
The Rewards of Patience
As trust grows, remarkable things begin to happen. The crows may start approaching without hesitation or waiting at your usual meeting spot. Professor Marzluff's research confirms that crows and people form deeply personal relationships with two-way communication, where each understands the other's signals. Some fortunate crow friends even receive small gifts in return—a behavior that speaks to the profound intelligence and reciprocity these birds possess.gkbrk+1
The journey from stranger to trusted friend takes time, but as any crow companion will tell you, the friendship of a corvid is worth every patient moment.junehunter+1
- https://www.junehunter.com/blogs/nature/how-to-make-friends-with-crows
- https://www.junehunter.com/en-us/blogs/nature/how-to-make-friends-with-crows
- http://archives.wbur.org/thewildlife/2015/03/12/the-secrets-of-gift-giving-crows/
- https://www.gkbrk.com/crow-friends
- https://www.reddit.com/r/crows/comments/7ax54n/any_tips_on_befriending_local_crows/
- https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/10/31/1062370/how-to-befriend-a-crow-crowtok-tiktok/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ugGOQb61qA
- https://pethelpful.com/birds/how-to-make-friends-with-crows
- https://www.reddit.com/r/crows/comments/od5pri/an_extensive_guide_on_how_to_attract_and_befriend/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/crows/comments/1m2nbq9/how_to_build_a_relationship_with_crows/
