Crows: Identification, Control & Prevention in the Garden

Crows are intelligent, social birds that damage gardens and prey on other birds. Distinguished from ravens: smaller, no shaggy throat feathers, fan-shaped tail (vs. wedge), harsh "caw" (vs. croak). Groups called "murders." Omnivorous ground-feeders: insects, small animals, seeds, fruit, garbage, carrion, nestlings. Live in open areas with perch trees; communal winter roosts.

Identification

Large black birds, raucous calls, wide tails. Social—seen in groups. Damage: pulled seedlings (especially corn), missing chicks, raided garbage.

Control

• Flexible bird netting (4" mesh) over fruit crops—excludes crows, admits small birds.
• Netting at shrub bases/tree trunks.
• Visual scare: shiny pie tins/CDs, Mylar tape/balloons, scarecrows, flags. Move frequently—crows learn.
• Seedling covers: cups/bags over corn ears after silk browns.
• Fishing line grid above garden blocks swooping.
• Old folklore: hickory arms on scarecrow; move/change elements regularly.

Prevention

• Nest box design: >6" from entry hole to floor; no perch/ledge below hole.
• Small-bird-only feeders.
• General bird exclusion tactics.

Plants Affected

• Corn