Grateful to the Crows

The first birds arriving back in the city are usually the Crows and Seagulls, although this year they seemed to have timed their arrival to coincide with the White-throated sparrows and Robins.  While I heard both of the latter species, it was the Crows that got my attention a couple of days ago.  As many of you know, Crows can at times be very noisy.  What you may not know, is that there is usually a reason.

In defense mode

Crows call out a warnings when there is an eagle in the sky for example, or predator of another sort in the area. When the predator settles in, or near their territories, and they perceive it to be enough of a threat, they will literally gang up on that predator.  This is when you will see many crows suddenly converging on a specific point and they will not be quiet about it.  You will see them diving and swooping at the predator, generally harassing it until it leaves, and then they will escort the predator away, with continual mobbing to make certain it doesn't return.

Crows calling

This is a scene I came upon, when I entered the little forest down the street.  I was curious as to what had the Crows in such an uproar, so I made my way to where they had converged.  They were harassing a Barred Owl.  Although, I didn't see the Owl, until the Crows finally flushed him from his resting place. The action was fast and furious, and it took the crows several tried to finally flush the Owl out into the open, and I never did get a photo of the Owl.   The Owl was large and magnificent, and stubborn.  So much so, that it took the Crows several tries, which allowed me to get a few quick views of the Owl.  Since I have never seen an Owl before, I am grateful to the Crows.  I will also be sure to keep an eye on them, who knows what they may show me next.

Enjoy,
Susan