Lisa Joyce experienced repeated crow attacks while running down a Vancouver street, with the birds dive-bombing her multiple times as crowds gathered for fireworks. Despite not being generally afraid of wildlife, Joyce found the encounters unsettling and ultimately changed her commute to avoid the birds.
The issue of crow attacks is not unique to Joyce. CrowTrax, a website dedicated to documenting such incidents, has received over 8,000 reports in Vancouver, a city known for its crow population. Reports of similar attacks have emerged from various locations, including Los Angeles and Maine, where individuals described aggressive behaviors from crows, including damaging property.
Crows are recognized for their intelligence, capable of mimicking human speech, using tools, and displaying social behaviors indicative of mourning. They can remember and hold grudges against individuals, with some experiences of harassment lasting for years, as noted in the accounts of various victims.
Experts indicate that most crow attacks occur during spring and early summer when crows are protective of their nests. Interestingly, Joyce observed that several other women in her area, all with long blond hair, also experienced similar dive-bombing incidents, prompting speculation about a possible connection.
John Marzluff, a professor at the University of Washington, has conducted research on crow behavior and their ability to hold grudges, estimating that crows can remember negative experiences for about 17 years. His studies, initiated in 2006, involved the use of a mask to track crows' reactions to perceived threats, revealing that crows could remember and react to the threatening figure long after the incident.
In a related study involving ravens, similar findings were noted regarding their capacity to retain grudges for extended periods, suggesting that both species share this behavioral trait.
Victims of crow attacks often seek ways to mitigate the harassment but find few effective solutions. Vancouver authorities advocate for coexistence with the local crow population, emphasizing that the community values its diverse wildlife.
Residents like Ruben Jimenez have struggled with crow harassment despite efforts to deter the birds using reflective materials and decoys. Others, like radio host Jill Bennett, have resorted to feeding crows in hopes of securing their protection, dubbing it a "crow tax." This informal arrangement reflects a growing acceptance of crows among some residents, despite the potential for ongoing confrontations.