Expert: Julia Booth - 6/19/2008

Question
Hi, we have recently found a baby crow, it cannot fly yet, but it can leap/jump. There is slight black fuzz on its head and upper back, and slightly around its beak. Currently it is in a box with padding, and a tub of water with some peeled fruits and wheat bread. Right now it is letting his head fall forward, while perched on the tub of water. Please help and advise us on what to do! We want it to survive. I own a domestic cockatiel, along with two parakeets, we have seeds if there is a need for them. How are we supposed to feed it? It currently will not eat or drink, it only opened it's beak a slight bit to allow a few drops of water. What are we supposed to do ? Thank you for your time and advise it is GREATLY appreciated!

-Jaslyn

Answer
Baby crows do not actually need water in the same way that we do. They get their moisture from their food. The water dish should be removed as he could easily drown. Dropping water down his beak could also drown him. Later, when he's older and can manage on his own, then a water dish can be employed.

Crows are scavengers/carnivores. They need meat.

Here's a good link that explains how and what to feed: http://www.pookachild.com/CrowCare.htm

Many years ago, as a teen, I rehabilitated a crow that was not even a juvenile and released it back into the wild. Prepare for your crow to get very attached to you and possibly even possessive. If he's a male and you're a female (how they that can tell this, I'll never know) he may actually attempt to woo you and bring you presents.

Good Luck!