Crows are among the most intelligent birds found in gardens, and befriending them is surprisingly simple if you offer the right food. These birds possess an exceptional ability to remember human faces, and showing them kindness can lead to regular visits. Gardeners appreciate crows because they are opportunistic feeders that consume many common pests, including slugs, leatherjackets, and flies during the summer months.
Why Feeding Crows Is Rewarding
One of the most fascinating aspects of crow behavior is their tendency to leave small gifts for humans who care for them. These offerings often include shiny objects such as pebbles, old coins, or lost jewelry pieces. Bird photographer June Hunter describes earning a crow's trust as incredibly rewarding. According to Hunter, the first step is to put out peanuts for them to eat.
The Best Food for Crows: Shelled Peanuts
Hunter advises: “A safe bet is to feed a crow shelled peanuts. They seem to like this. But you don't want to feed crows bread because it fills them up but doesn't contain proper nutrients.” Bread is one of the worst foods for birds, as it offers no nutritional value and can cause malnutrition and digestive issues. In summer, bread can absorb moisture, posing a danger to birds.
Peanuts are calorie-dense and rich in fats and proteins, making them an ideal high-energy food source for crows. They will keep the birds full, reducing the need to forage all day. Crows also enjoy problem-solving and will attempt to crack open peanuts with their feet, providing mental stimulation.
Important Feeding Guidelines
Only unsalted and unflavored peanuts should be offered to birds, preferably purchased from a pet store or the pet aisle of a supermarket. Birds cannot digest salt like humans, and even small amounts can stress their kidneys, potentially causing harm or death. Consistency is key when feeding crows; they should be offered food at the same time and place regularly.
Crows have excellent memories and will recognize anyone who feeds them consistently. However, they should not be fed every day, as this can discourage natural foraging. The recommended frequency is no more than three times a week to build trust without creating dependency. Over time, crows will recognize their benefactor and become regular garden visitors.
