As the Crow Flies: Get to Really Know Crows

Attendees will learn about the natural history of crows, their complex behaviors and social structures, including play, tool use, “funerals,” “gifting,” communal roosting and the ability to recognize specific humans.

Lecture:
Crows have learned not only to survive, but to thrive in human-dominated environments. They have influenced art and literature throughout history. And they are incredibly intelligent. Attendees will learn about the natural history of crows, their complex behaviors and social structures, including play, tool use, “funerals,” “gifting,” communal roosting and the ability to recognize specific humans. We will discuss other types of corvids such as ravens and magpies. Attendees will also have the pleasure of meeting a live crow and learn what it’s like to be a crow’s caretaker.

Field Study:
Attendees will first gather to watch thousands of American Crows stream into downtown Sacramento during sunset from a prime viewing spot. Hundreds of crows often make a pit stop right next to the viewing spot, but this cannot be guaranteed. Next, the group will visit the communal roost where the crows have their giant nightly slumber party.

Note: Parking will be free at the location where we will watch the fly-in to downtown Sacramento. There will be a cost to park downtown at the actual roost site. There will be a small amount of walking outdoors. If you cannot walk, or prefer not to, crows will be easily viewable from your vehicle. We suggest that you wear a hat during the roost visit as there will be many crows overhead.