Trail Mail: What’s the Deal with Crows?
Real questions. Field-tested answers.
Got something on your mind? Ask away — your friendly Camp Counselor is in.
Dear Field Trip, My friend says she ‘talks to crows’ and that they’re some of the smartest creatures on the planet. I find them kind of creepy — especially when they gather in those giant flocks. Are they smart, or spooky… or both?—Crow-Curious
Camp Counselor Says: Short answer? Crows are spooky and smart. Long answer? They might be one of the most fascinating, misunderstood animals you’ll ever meet.
Let’s break it down.
Brainy Birds
Crows (along with ravens, magpies, and jays) are part of the corvid family — a group of birds known for their sky-high IQs. And we’re not talking “smart for a bird.” We’re talking tool-using, face-recognizing, memory-storing genius.
Some fun facts to feed your curiosity:
They recognize human faces. Not kidding. Crows can remember people who’ve treated them well (or badly) and even pass that info on to other crows.
They use tools. Need to dig out a grub or grab food from a tight spot? A crow will break off a stick or bend a wire to get the job done.
They hold grudges. Once you’re on their bad side… you’re really on their bad side.
They mourn their dead. Scientists have observed crows gathering silently around deceased flockmates — a behavior that looks a lot like mourning (or at least data collection: “Hey,Carl touched the power line and died. Avoid that spot.").
So yes, your friend who "talks to crows" might be onto something — these birds are incredibly aware and capable of social learning. If a crow brings her a shiny button or dead mouse, that’s a legit sign of respect.
So Why Do They Feel So Creepy?
Blame the vibes — and Hollywood.
Crows are pitch black, vocal, and often gather in large groups (called murders, no less — which doesn’t help their PR). Their calls can sound like harsh (witchy) cackles, and their presence near roadkill or cemeteries has long been tied to death in folklore.
However, crows aren’t omens — they’re opportunists. Scavenging is a smart survival strategy, not a sinister plot.
Those eerie-looking gatherings in trees around dusk? That’s called a communal roost — and it’s basically crow happy hour. They meet up to exchange info, stay safe overnight, and catch up on the day’s events. (Okay, that last one is speculative. But they do communicate a lot.)
Field Tip: Want to Befriend a Crow?
Start by observing quietly. Offer the same food at the same time each day (unsalted peanuts in the shell are a classic). Be consistent, respectful, and calm — and don’t try to touch or tame them. You’re building mutual respect, not a petting zoo.
With time, they might bring you tiny gifts (sticks, bottle caps, bits of shiny stuff) or just start hanging out nearby more often. You may even earn a few caws of approval.
Final Verdict: Spooky? A Little. Smart? Absolutely.
And like so many misunderstood creatures, crows just need us to understand them and care for them and their habitat.
