Step 5: Feeding Close to Your Body

Timeframe: 2–6 weeks
(depending on many external factors)

Goals for this Step

– Crows take food directly from beside your shoe or leg
– They show curious beak contact with your clothes or skin
– You maintain calm breathing and relaxed posture
– No alarm calls occur during the sessions

Milestones / Checklist

– Place food next to you on the ground
– Sit still and avoid direct eye contact
– Let the crows decide when to approach
– Praise them softly when they take food

Warnings / Points of Attention

– Avoid touching the bird at this stage
– Keep pets and children away from the area
– Stop if an aggressive or dominant bird arrives

Feeding Guide (you may reuse food from earlier steps)

Allowed – preferably avoid sugar, salt, and fat
(Remember: crows are omnivores and eat almost anything, but always choose the healthiest options)
– Peanuts (unsalted)
– Pistachios (unsalted)
– Cherries
– Cooked pieces of egg

Allowed in small amounts:
– Small cheese cubes (low-fat)
– Carrot strips
– Raisins
– Apple slices

Not allowed / Avoid completely:
– Salty chips
– Spiced sausage
– Avocado & avocado pits

Tips & Tricks

– Use a picnic mat or similar for a stable sitting position
– Try playing soft nature sounds (birdsong, forest ambience) on your phone
– Keep your hands open to appear non-threatening

Bonus Knowledge

When crows feel safe enough to stand at your feet or perch close beside you, you’re approaching the breakthrough point toward hand-feeding.

Document Your Progress

Take photos or videos, write down your observations, and check off your milestones as you go.

Share Your Experience

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