They must like to shop at Kroger’s. Otherwise, why do so many crows gather in flocks near Kroger’s. Sometimes every tree limb and light pole in the lot have crow claws clinging to them. I have noticed this phenomenon for the past several years. This morning, there must have been 100 or more crows chatting away about whatever crows chat about. But then, they break up into small groups – there is usually a gang of three that visits my back yard, hoping for a few cracked corn handouts – and they usually find some.
This mass grouping appears to be a pre-mating ritual when hordes of crows (called a murder of crows) gather. Perhaps they are checking to see if any other birds would fit into their tight knit clans as mates. Crows are very family oriented. Often, the juveniles from previous years will forgo mating of their own to help the parents feed and protect the new chicks.
Recently, a red-tailed hawk made the mistake of flying within sight of the army of Kroger crows. He didn’t stay around long. The crows sent out two battalions to chase him away.
While crows themselves often rob other bird nests (most notably grackles), hawks return the favor and are quick to snatch young crows from the nest. Perhaps the Kroger crows have gathered to plan their spring strategy. Either that, or they may be checking out the prices of corn in the produce section.
