How to Befriend the Crows in Chicago

Between spring migrations and the cicada feast coming our way, now is the time to get into birding. You don’t even have to drive out of the city or spend hours learning bird calls — just listen for the caw of a city crow.

It might even bring you gifts.

Crows 101

Crows are omnivores that thrive in cities. (Remind you of any other birds you know?)

Illinois used to boast the largest gathering of American crows in the world until West Nile virus decimated the population two decades ago. But the crows have been bouncing back.

A Chicago Crow Story

When my boyfriend and I first met, he told me about these crows that kept attacking him near Chase Park in Ravenswood. He said he had rescued a baby bunny from crows there about a year earlier.

Crows are smart — in addition to solving puzzles and using tools, they also recognize faces and hold grudges.

Despite saving the cute bunny, my boyfriend had made some bird enemies. So my advice? Feed them.

Making Crow Friends

Among other things, crows like:

• Unsalted nuts, especially peanuts in the shell
• Dry pet food
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Fresh water

Feed a crow consistently, and it might start bringing you gifts. Crows now show up at my boyfriend’s apartment with rocks and jewelry.

But be warned: Crows talk to other crows, so they could become a nuisance in your neighborhood. Plus, leaving out food can attract other animals and pests.