I've been encouraging the crows for about 3-4 years now. Every year we get more and more nesting in the pines in the back of the property. This past summer we watched as at least 12-15 crows came from all corners to chase down a hawk. Even with all that, we lost our first hen to a hawk this past weekend. The next day the crows were back on the job, but alas it was a bit too late for Millie.
What I have done to get the crows to hang around is to make sure they have available food. Corn, soiled eggs, etc. I place them out in the back field (hoping not to attracted anything else) and so far we have a nice little murder hanging out around here. Also, we are lucky because they have a wonderful stand of trees both in my yard and surrounding it to nest in. My one free-range hen now runs when she hears the crows. Smart chickie.
What I have done to get the crows to hang around is to make sure they have available food. Corn, soiled eggs, etc. I place them out in the back field (hoping not to attracted anything else) and so far we have a nice little murder hanging out around here. Also, we are lucky because they have a wonderful stand of trees both in my yard and surrounding it to nest in. My one free-range hen now runs when she hears the crows. Smart chickie.