I’ve always been fascinated by crows. We have a small birdbath in our front yard, under our very large ancient oak tree that attracts birds and other animals. I noticed a crow family was collecting materials for a nest in a tall palm next to the big oak. The larger bird (the male) was visiting the birdbath throughout the day, and I was so excited to watch him at work. I told my husband I was going to see about making a connection. I have always heard that crows love shiny trinkets and sometimes leave gifts in return, so that was my mission.

I would leave a trinket and announce my arrival with a “caw-caw”. My friend, the crow did come to see what in the world I was doing… and seemed to be entertained. It took 3 or 4 days, then the shiny little brass bee was retrieved! A little research and I discovered that crows might like shiny things but are definitely intrigued with gifts of food. First, I left whole almonds and that worked… then I read about peanuts in the shell and bought a big bag of peanuts. Crows definitely love meat, so there was a big barely boiled shrimp, and a nice chunk of chicken breast. I could walk out on the porch in the morning and sing out my “caw-caw”, and here he would come and perch above the birdbath.

The return gifts… oh yes, I received gifts! Always perched on the edge of the birdbath, just as I left his gifts. First was a bone… a really clean chicken leg bone! Then a fish jaw-bone, an internal organ of some poor animal, and the most impressive (by weight and appearance) an almost intact fish.

My friend, the king (that’s what I call him). He and his wife were amazing parents, in the midst of all my interaction. He was definitely sharing his haul of treats to feed that demanding baby! The baby fledged, the king and his wife vacated the nest, and I can only HOPE that they were very happy with the service around here, and return soon.

me and the king

life is art

Always taking inspiration from life… I wanted to document my interaction with a couple of new pieces of art.
Handsome Crow, Gifts for the King, 6″x12″, mixed media, and Charmed, Gifts for the King, 6″x12″, mixed media.