To keep crows away from bird feeders, use feeders with small openings, place them in sheltered areas, and consider using visual or auditory deterrents.
Crows can dominate bird feeders, scare smaller birds, and quickly deplete your seed supply. Their intelligence and adaptability make them challenging to deter, but effective solutions exist. This guide covers practical strategies to protect your feeders while maintaining a welcoming environment for songbirds.
Why Crows Target Bird Feeders
Crows are opportunistic omnivores attracted to easy food sources. A single crow can consume up to 40 pounds of food per year. They prefer:
- High-calorie seeds and nuts
- Leftover pet food
- Unsecured trash
- Fallen fruit
Crow Behavior Patterns
These intelligent birds:
- Remember human faces for years
- Teach their young about threats
- Communicate food locations to their flock
Physical Deterrents That Work
Caged Feeders
Wire cages with 1.5-inch openings allow small birds access while excluding crows. The best bird watching binoculars can help you monitor feeder activity from a distance.
| Feeder Type | Effectiveness | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tube feeder with cage | High | $$ |
| Weight-sensitive perch | Medium | $$$ |
| DIY wire basket | High | $ |
DIY Wire Basket Solution
- Purchase two dome-shaped wire hanging baskets
- Connect them with cable ties to form a sphere
- Mount around existing feeder
- Ensure openings are no larger than 1.5 inches
Environmental Modifications
Feeder Placement Strategies
Position feeders:
- Under dense tree cover (limits crow approach)
- At least 10 feet from potential perches
- Over hard surfaces for easy cleanup
Yard Maintenance
Remove other food sources:
- Secure trash cans with locking lids
- Clean up fallen fruit immediately
- Store pet food indoors
Visual and Auditory Deterrents
Shiny Objects
Contrary to myth, crows avoid reflective items. Try:
- Hanging old CDs
- Mylar strips
- Aluminum pie plates
Predator Decoys
Rotate these weekly to maintain effectiveness:
- Owl statues
- Fake dead crows (upside down)
- Snake replicas
According to Cornell Lab of Ornithology, combining multiple deterrent types works best.
Food Selection Strategies
Preferred Small Bird Foods
Offer foods crows dislike:
- Nyjer seed
- Safflower seed
- Shelled sunflower hearts
Feeding Schedule
Serve food:
- Early morning (songbirds feed first)
- Small quantities at a time
- Never leave food overnight
Advanced Techniques
Behavioral Conditioning
Crows recognize threats. Consistently:
- Make loud noises when they approach
- Use motion-activated sprinklers
- Install ultrasonic repellers
Community Solutions
Coordinate with neighbors to:
- Implement consistent deterrents
- Remove communal roosting sites
- Report large flocks to wildlife authorities
For monitoring crow activity, consider long-range binoculars to observe from a distance without disturbing birds.
Legal Considerations
In most areas:
- Crows are protected under Migratory Bird Treaty Act
- Lethal control requires special permits
- Non-lethal methods are always preferred
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides current regulations on crow management.
