I am
A gardener both vegetables and flowers.
Over the last couple of years crows have been pulling up shallow rooted flowers (like marigolds)
Thi...
Knowledgebase
Black crows pulling up plants #878973
Asked July 26, 2024, 10:14 PM EDT
I am
A gardener both vegetables and flowers.
Over the last couple of years crows have been pulling up shallow rooted flowers (like marigolds)
This year it seems even worse.
I put lights that are motion activated to try to stop them at night, also I put up Mylar pinwheels and even tried cayenne pepper around some of the plants.
I wonder if they are pulling plants up to try to get to worms in the soil?
I’m really frustrated.
I would appreciate any advice.
Marion CountyOregon
Expert Response
Crows, ravens, and jays are all members of a bird family called corvids - They are notable for their very high intelligence and communication abilities, which can be very problematic once they observe us planting seeds or putting out items that can provide easy food for them. For example, Dr. Marzluff at U Washington has done substantial work on crows' abilities, including to remember (and communicate warnings about) individual humans' faces: Crows are diurnal, or active during the day, meaning that nocturnal/nighttime lighting won't affect them. You COULD however, use a motion-detecting sprinkler "scarecrow" during the day if you're able to hook up a hose + water scarecrow in a strategic location that won't (also) spray you, your neighbors, or delivery folks :) Alternatively, I would advise caging the beds, at least until the seeds/young plants are well-established beyond the "pluckable" stage of vulnerability.