How to Feed Crows Safely?: Best & Worst Foods
- mktpromeal
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Crows are among the most intelligent and adaptable birds in the world. You’ll see them everywhere—on rooftops, in gardens, on roadsides, and even in busy cities. People often love feeding crows because it builds a connection with nature, is part of cultural beliefs, or simply out of curiosity.
But the question is—what is safe and healthy to feed them? Let’s explore what crows naturally eat, the best foods you can offer, what to avoid, and how to feed them the right way.
1. What Do Crows Eat Naturally?
Crows are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal food. In nature, their diet is very diverse:
Insects and Worms – Beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, caterpillars, mealworms, and earthworms are rich in protein and easy for them to catch. After rains, crows are often seen pulling worms out of the soil.
Small Animals and Reptiles – Frogs, lizards, baby snakes, and sometimes even fish become part of their diet when available.
Eggs and Baby Birds – Crows raid nests for eggs and chicks, which provide extra nutrition during breeding season.
Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds – Mangoes, papayas, figs, berries, corn, grains, and peanuts are common natural foods.
Carrion (Dead Animals) – Crows are scavengers. They clean the environment by eating roadkill or dead animals.
Their natural diet is balanced with protein, energy, and vitamins, which keeps them healthy and active.
2. Best Foods You Can Offer to Crows
If you want to feed crows safely, here are the healthiest options:
Cooked Plain Rice – One of the easiest foods to give. Rice is light and easily digestible. Always serve plain, without salt or spices.
Fruits – Bananas, papayas, mangoes, apples, and berries are loved by crows. Fruits provide natural sugars and vitamins.
Nuts and Grains – Peanuts, corn, wheat, and pulses (soaked or boiled) are great sources of energy and fats.
Boiled Eggs – Small pieces of boiled egg are a protein-rich treat.
Dried or Live Insects – Mealworms, superworms, and crickets are closest to their natural food and are excellent for their growth, especially for young crows.
If you want to mimic their natural diet, insects are the best choice.
3. Foods to Avoid for Crows
Not all foods are safe for crows. Some can harm their health in the long run:
Salty Snacks – Chips, namkeen, and salty biscuits can cause dehydration and kidney problems.
Spicy Foods – Human curries, masala, and fried snacks are too strong for birds.
Chocolates and Sweets – Chocolate is toxic for birds; sugar is also unhealthy.
Processed Junk Food – Burgers, pizzas, and fries may attract them but have no nutrition.
A simple rule: If it’s not healthy for humans, it’s even worse for birds.
4. Feeding Baby Crows (If Rescued)
Sometimes people find abandoned or injured baby crows. They need special care.
Feed them soft insects like mealworms or caterpillars (best option).
Offer mashed fruits such as papaya or banana.
Give soaked grains or small bits of boiled rice.
Never pour water directly into their beak—it can cause choking. Instead, keep small drops of water on food or in a shallow dish.
Baby crows grow best on a high-protein diet with soft, easy-to-digest foods.
5. Best Time & Way to Feed Crows
Morning and Evening are the best times. Crows are most active then.
Place food in an open spot like a terrace, balcony, or garden where they feel safe.
Keep it clean – put food on a plate or a fixed spot so the area doesn’t attract pests.
Offer small portions instead of large piles. Regular small feeding is better than excess food.
If you feed them regularly, crows may start recognizing you and return daily.
6. Fun Facts About Crows and Feeding
Memory Power – Crows can recognize human faces and remember those who feed them.
Gift-Giving – Some crows are known to bring small shiny gifts like beads, buttons, or pebbles to people who feed them regularly.
Cultural Beliefs – In India, feeding crows is considered an act of respect for ancestors, especially during rituals like Shraddh or Pitra Paksha.
Social Eating – Crows often call other crows when they find food, showing their cooperative nature.
7. Why Feeding Crows the Right Food Matters
Feeding crows is not just about giving food—it also supports nature.
Healthy Diet = Healthy Crows – The right food keeps them strong and prevents diseases.
Natural Cleaners – Crows help clean the environment by eating carrion and waste.
Pest Control – By eating insects, they reduce crop damage for farmers.
Seed Dispersal – When crows eat fruits and drop seeds, they help new plants grow.
Feeding them the right food helps both the bird and the environment.
Feeding crows can be a joyful experience and even a spiritual practice in many cultures. These birds eat almost everything, but their natural and healthy diet includes insects, fruits, grains, and carrion. If you want to feed crows, choose safe and nutritious foods like rice, fruits, boiled eggs, grains, and especially dried or live insects. Avoid giving them salty, spicy, or processed foods.
By feeding crows the right way, you not only help them survive but also support the environment—because crows are nature’s cleaners, pest controllers, and seed spreaders.
8. FAQs About Feeding Crows
Do crows eat rice?
Yes, plain cooked rice is safe and commonly eaten. Always avoid adding salt, oil, or spices.
Can crows eat bread?
They can, but bread has very little nutrition. Fruits, grains, or insects are much healthier alternatives.
Do crows eat mealworms?
Yes, crows love them! Mealworms (live or dried) are one of the best foods for their growth and energy.
Is it good to feed crows every day?
Yes, feeding them daily is fine. Just keep the portions small and choose healthy foods.
Can crows drink milk?
No, birds cannot digest milk properly. Giving milk can upset their stomach, so it should be avoided.
Do crows eat meat?
Yes, crows are scavengers and will eat small meat scraps or even dead animals. However, avoid giving raw or spoiled meat at home.
What fruits do crows like most?
They enjoy soft fruits such as papaya, banana, mango, and berries. Hard fruits should be cut into small pieces.
Can crows eat nuts and peanuts?
Yes, peanuts and nuts are safe if they are unsalted and plain. Soaked or boiled peanuts are easier for them to eat.
Do crows eat fish?
Yes, in the wild they may catch small fish from shallow water. In urban areas, they sometimes scavenge fish scraps from markets.
Can crows eat dog or cat food?
Yes, crows often steal pet food, especially kibble or dried insects. It is safe, but not as good as natural food like fruits and insects.
Do crows remember people who feed them?
Yes, crows have excellent memory. They can recognize faces and often return to the same person who feeds them regularly.
Do crows bring gifts if you feed them?
Sometimes, yes. Crows are known to bring small objects like shiny stones, beads, or twigs to people who feed them often.
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