Step 10: Maintenance and Deepening the Bond

Timeframe: Lifelong
(Congratulations — you are now a fully fledged Crowman, Crowwoman, or Crowperson!)

Goals for this Step

– Expand your “language” of sounds and gestures
– Introduce activities (gift exchange, treasure hunts, play)
– Keep the crows healthy and independent
– Practice responsible public interaction

Milestones / Checklist

– Develop at least three hand signals (e.g., come, watch out, give)
– Bring a shiny bead as a gift for trade sessions
– Plan a weekly treasure hunt with hidden snacks
– Monitor crow health — feather condition, appetite, energy level

Warnings / Points of Attention

– Overfeeding can lead to dependency
– Never take wild crows home
– Respect seasonal protection periods (according to hunting law)

Feeding Guide

Allowed – preferably avoid sugar, salt, and fat
(Remember: crows are omnivores and will eat almost anything, but always choose the healthiest options)
– Mixed unsalted nuts
– Berries
– Boiled eggs
– Mealworms

Allowed in small amounts:
– Small lean meat cubes
– Cooked vegetables
– Tiny portions of whole-grain bread
– Unsalted popcorn

Not allowed / Avoid completely:
– Chocolate
– Salty snacks
– Processed meats
– Drinks containing caffeine

Tips & Tricks

– Experiment with puzzle feeders to challenge their intelligence
– Log all your sessions in a digital tracking app
– Join citizen-science projects like eBird to share your data

Bonus Knowledge

A long-term relationship with crows offers a unique window into corvid intelligence.
Your continued observations and data can help researchers understand these remarkable birds even better.

Document Your Progress

Take photos or videos, record your notes, and check off your milestones as you go.

Share Your Experience

Feel free to share your stories, insights, and progress in the comments below or on our crow forum.