White Magic Studio

iheartcrows:

Crows will eat most anything, but they definitely prefer protein sources over fruit & veg in my experience. I will often give them leftover lunchmeat that has gone off, but they also like carbs and take my extra crackers, pretzels, pastries, you name it. They dig in the trash, so they’re not overly picky. (I also find that feeding them keeps them out of the trash a little more.)

But the thing I’ve been using most lately is unsalted peanuts – in or out of shell (I usually use a mixture of both). They don’t go bad and they’re easier to carry around. Just don’t let the squirrels catch on. Squirrels be crazy and even the crows know it.

I’ve been feeding the crows at work for several months now – mostly peanuts and the occasional leftovers – and they have definitely become my little horde. They know my face and my bus schedule and watch for me, then follow me down the street where I can put the nuts in a safe place. They know the rattle of the peanuts in the container I keep them in. I also started by making a distinct clicking sound so they would know I wanted to feed them, and if they’re in earshot they will come when I make the sound. Being able to feed them at the same time and place regularly has been key to winning them over. (Though they still don’t get very close. …except when I turn my back.)

Here are some of my minions waiting for peanuts. It was just a mated pair (then baby, too) when I started last spring. Then flocking season came and I found 30 hungry beaks over my head. (Sorry the photos are so crappy. I only carry an iPod)

Good luck in making your new friends!