Crows

Understanding & Controlling Crows

Crows: Majestic Yet Messy—Time to Keep Them Away from Your Property

Crows are intelligent, social birds, but when they decide to make your property their home, they can quickly turn from a curious spectacle to a serious pest problem.

Why Are Crows a Problem?
Crows are known for their sharp minds and tendency to roost in large groups. While their presence can sometimes feel like a tribute to your property, crows can cause significant damage. Crows are particularly attracted to rooftops, air conditioning units, and trees near buildings. Their droppings are acidic and can cause serious corrosion on metal surfaces, damage paint, and even create health hazards. Additionally, their large nests can block ventilation systems or create fire hazards when situated in chimneys or vents.

Crows are notorious for bringing with them a variety of issues, including health risks from their droppings, which may carry diseases like Salmonella, E. coli, and even avian influenza (bird flu). They’re also known to spread parasites like mites and lice, which can move from their nests into your building.

Health Risks of Crows
In the summer of 1999, a disease called West Nile virus arrived in the United States, showing up first in New York City. It spreads through mosquito bites and can infect both birds and people. While many birds can carry the virus, it was especially deadly to American Crows and their relatives, like Blue Jays. In fact, nearly every crow that got the virus died from it. Thousands of crows died in just the first few months, and over time, millions more were lost as the virus moved across the country. Compared to other bird diseases, West Nile virus stands out for its high death rate in certain species. Many birds can carry it without showing symptoms, but crows were hit especially hard. Other bird illnesses, like avian flu or salmonella, can also cause large die-offs, but they tend to affect a wider variety of species and can spread more through contact or contaminated food. West Nile is different because it relies on mosquitoes to move between hosts, which can make outbreaks worse in warm, wet weather when mosquitoes are more active.

Crows are potential carriers of avian influenza, which is why having them on your property can present significant health risks. Their droppings can dry and become airborne, spreading bacteria and fungi that can cause respiratory problems. In high-population areas, crows’ droppings may lead to contamination of surfaces, food, and water sources.

DIY Solutions Aren’t Effective
While many property managers try to solve crow problems by hanging reflective objects or using scare tactics, these methods are generally ineffective. Crows are highly intelligent and can quickly adapt to these deterrents, rendering them useless in the long run. DIY solutions might work temporarily, but a long-term, customized plan is necessary to keep these birds away.

Why Bell Bird Control Is the Key
At Bell Bird Control, we specialize in bird exclusion services that are designed to prevent crows from roosting on your property. Our team of experienced professionals will assess the unique needs of your building, implementing bird-proofing strategies that are both effective and humane. Whether it’s installing netting, spikes, or customized exclusion systems for HVAC units, we provide tailored solutions that keep your property safe from crows.

Crows may seem like they’ve got the “wisdom” to take over your property, but don’t let them outsmart you! Call Bell Bird Control to make sure they’re not calling your building home any time soon.

 FAQs

  • American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) are large, intelligent, all-black birds native to North America, recognized for their adaptability and complex social behavior.​

  • They are found across various habitats, including forests, fields, and urban areas, often nesting in tall trees or on structures.​


  • Some northern populations migrate short distances southward in winter, while many remain in their territories year-round.​

  • They are omnivorous, consuming insects, small animals, fruits, seeds, and human food waste.​

  • They can be territorial and may mob predators or intruders, especially during nesting season.​

  • Crows use a complex system of caws and other vocalizations to communicate within their social groups.​

  • Breeding typically occurs from March to May, with females laying 3 to 9 eggs per clutch.​

  • The incubation period is about 18 days, primarily by the female, with both parents feeding the young.​

  • While a group of crows is called a murder, it is not legal to harm crows. Yes, they are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, prohibiting harm without appropriate permits.​

  • Implementing bird control solutions such as scare devices, exclusion techniques, and minimizing food sources can help prevent crows from frequenting your property.​

    Bell Bird Control can work with you on an appropriate solution and it won’t entail putting a scarecrow in your field.