Step 9: The Crow Sits on You — Voluntarily!

Timeframe: 3–8 weeks
(depending on many external factors — and not everyone reaches this stage)

Goals for this Step

– Crows sit on your arm or hand for more than 30 seconds
– You have a clear signal for “come up”
– Mutual comfort — no signs of stress
– Crows remain calm even when people are watching from a distance

Milestones / Checklist

– Lift your forearm as a “landing platform”
– Offer a snack to lure the crow
– Keep your arm steady — support your elbow if needed
– Reward immediately with a favorite snack

Warnings / Points of Attention

– Practice in calm surroundings — not in busy areas
– Stop if the crow loses balance
– Watch out for sharp claws — cover your skin with fabric if necessary

Feeding Guide (you can reuse snacks 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)
– Almonds (unsalted)
– Dried dates

Allowed in small amounts:
– Thin cheese flakes (low-fat)
– Cooked quinoa
– Blackcurrants
– Pea purée drops (without butter or oil)

Not allowed / Avoid completely:
– Chocolate
– Fried onions
– Deep-fried leftovers

Tips & Tricks

– Use a command word like “Up!” along with the arm gesture
– Always allow the crow to hop off freely
– Rotate between different snacks for variety and enrichment

Bonus Knowledge

When a crow chooses to stay perched on your arm, it’s a sign of maximum trust.
At first, keep these sessions short — let the crow take its snack and see whether it flies off immediately or stays for more.
Often, once its beak is full, it’ll fly back to its partner or young to share the food — or hide it in one of its secret stashes.

Document Your Progress

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

Share Your Experience

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