"Kicked me in the head": Map documents savage crow attacks in Vancouver

Crows are among the most clever and intelligent birds.

However, anyone who has lived in Vancouver for more than a few years has likely run into a slightly irritated mother crow protecting her nest.

The attacks have become more frequent in recent weeks, according to crow attack tracker CrowTrax.

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CrowTrax, which is populated by the community, keeps track of when and where the attacks are happening.

CrowTrax also lets you report a crow attack based on the level of aggression the crow displayed. While a majority of the encounters have resulted in just a few swoops overhead, many have led to an actual physical attack:

Umbrellas could be a key defence:

The BC SPCA outlines some reasons why this behaviour might be taking place:

“Nesting season is a vulnerable time for babies and parents, with eggs and young chicks at risk of predation. This risk is amplified as fledgling birds begin to leave the nest.”

If there’s a route you frequently travel on that is teeming with aggressive crows, the BC SPCA suggests finding a new path to get you to your destination.

Although that wasn’t this person’s saving grace:

According to the BC SPCA, nesting season ends around the beginning of July, so stay vigilant over the course of the next few weeks.