Step 6: Introduction to Hand-Feeding

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

Goals for this Step

– Crows take food directly from your open hand
– A clear signal is established before hand-feeding
– No pecking or nipping when taking food
– Increased trust shown through soft “rasp” calls

Milestones / Checklist

– Hold your open hand with the snack resting on your fingers
– Look away as they approach
– Repeat your click sound or keyword when they take the food
– Lower your hand again slowly – no sudden movements

Warnings / Points of Attention

– Never close your hand around the bird
– End the session at the first sign of restlessness or discomfort

Feeding Guide (you may reuse food from earlier steps)

Allowed – preferably avoid sugar, salt, and fat
(Remember: crows are omnivores and will eat almost anything, but always choose the healthiest options)
– Small grape cubes
– Cooked egg yolk
– Dried mealworms
– Walnut fragments

Allowed in small amounts:
– Boiled chicken (unseasoned)
– Grains
– Oats
– Peas

Not allowed / Avoid completely:
– Bread crusts
– Chili or spicy foods

Tips & Tricks

– Keep your hand low – below the crow’s eye level
– Reward the boldest birds with a double nut
– Keep your palm dry (use a small towel if needed)
– Avoid direct eye contact
– Bow your head slightly and blink slowly – it signals calmness and humility

Bonus Knowledge

Birds learn context-dependent behavior — the same hand movement can later become a signal for “come here.”
I personally use different gestures for different groups of crows:
– A hand on my head signals certain crows to approach
– An outstretched arm tells others it’s safe to come closer
– A line drawn in the sand with my foot signals a group not to follow
– A sideways or downward peace sign means “follow me” or “it’s safe to land”
When I need to call crows from afar or when I’m out of sight, I use distinct calls or sounds to let them know where I am.

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 experiences in the comments below or on our crow forum.