Crow Attacks Halt Residential Mail Service

Mail carriers making deliveries in the 400 block of Ralph Avenue West in Winnipeg (the capital and largest city of Manitoba, Canada) recently had more to fear than just dogs. Seems  the area’s postal carriers now have a new enemy--dive-bombing crows. Even postal carriers equipped with big branches aren’t safe from these “murder of crows.” As one resident put it, “You just can’t turn your back on them’." The attacks have been so aggressive that Canada Post has suspended mail delivery due to unsafe access.

As is common knowledge, most crows won’t attack humans from the back. Which is why some have suggested that the beleaguered postal carriers wear a hat with big eyes painted on the back. Needless to say, this suggestion didn’t exactly go over well with the area’s postal carriers.

Manitoba Conservation officials noted that crows will attack as soon as their hatchlings are large enough to leave the nest. When their babies can fly, the attacks should stop, they advised. That said, area residents have noted that the attacks have continued in spite of the baby crows flying. One area resident, who often carries her lame pet dog reported that a crow attacked her and ruffled her hair.

Compounding the problem is the fact that crows are a highly intelligent species, more so than the average bird. Once attracted to an area, crows will protect themselves and their new offspring from predators and humans, even to the point of posting “sentries” to alert the flock of impeding threats. Without effective bird control measures to deter them, crows will quickly “lay claim” to an area. If your area has a crow problem, here’s what the pros recommend:

Bird Chase Super Sonic

Easy to place just about anywhere, the Bird Chase Super Sonic takes advantage of a crow’s alert nature to threats. The device continually broadcasts pre-recorded bird distress and predator calls. These sounds resemble natural bird sounds, so pets and humans won't be bothered by them. The device is quality-constructed, weather resistant and designed for rugged outdoor use. It's easily programmed for day or night operation.

Stainless Steel Bird Spikes

Ideal for denying large birds like crows a place to perch and roost, Stainless Steel Bird Spikes are easy to install and highly effective. The spiked strips come in a variety of widths --1”, 3”, 5” and 8” --to match the area you want to safeguard. The spike strips can be glued down, nailed or screwed onto most any surface. The best stainless steel spikes are made in the USA and will be securely embedded in UV-resistant unbreakable polycarbonate. Approved by the US Humane Society and PICAS, the spikes are blunted at the tips, so they won’t injure the crows.