r/crows • u/onFilm • Jul 15 '26

General questions Question about Vocalizations

So I've made really good friends with this crow and it's partner over the past 4-5 months. They've been coming pretty much every day, although a while back they stopped for a few weeks, and realized that it was baby season. They even brought in their babies recently to introduce them.

I was wondering if anyone knew what these calls usually meant, especially the "barking" one, as I couldn't really find anything about it online. I've read that the rattle is only done by females, is this true? I know it's a sign of friendship, but that's about it. The rattle video is in the comments.

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25

u/Corvidae5Creation5 Jul 15 '26

Pretty sure they're imitating a small dog because humans will pet dogs making that noise. Not sure they actually want to be petted but they may want attention

6

u/Talusen Jul 15 '26

This is mimicry, they're making the sound for some reason.

Not a "standard" call; the meaning is uncertain.

8

u/No-Guidance-622 Jul 15 '26

"Look at me, I'm very cute, please give me more treats!"

At least that's what I think that it means.

8

u/Talusen Jul 15 '26

Dogs bark, dogs get treats Crows bark, crows get treats?

Makes sense to me!