In the realm of hunting, few topics elicit as much surprise and skepticism as Delaware crow hunting. Whether speaking to seasoned hunters or those unfamiliar with the sport, the mere mention of targeting crows in Delaware often prompts the question, “You hunt what?”
Reflecting on my own introduction to crow hunting over 20 years ago, I vividly recall sharing the same incredulous reactions that many may have now. Crows? Why hunt crows? It seemed like a peculiar pursuit, indeed.
However, my initial foray into crow hunting swiftly dispelled my misconceptions. After shooting about fifty shots and bagging few crows during my inaugural crow hunt, I found myself on the receiving end of amusement. This humbling experience underscored a fundamental truth: like all forms of hunting, crow hunting demands a strategic approach.
At the core of successful crow hunting lies a comprehension of the birds’ behaviors and tendencies. The American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), prevalent across Delaware, gravitates towards nesting in tall, sheltered trees near open spaces. These birds typically form family units that establish and defend expansive territories. These familial clusters, comprising crows of varying ages, exhibit communal behaviors such as feeding together and collectively warding off predators like hawks and owls.
During the autumn and winter seasons, numerous crow families depart from their usual territories each evening to congregate at communal roost sites. These roosts, accommodating hundreds to thousands of crows nightly, offer sheltered resting spots that afford protection from predators.
Delaware crow hunting season spans approximately nine consecutive months, from early July to late March, with the customary breeding period in spring designated as off-limits. Personally, I prefer to engage in crow hunting during February and March, positioning myself near communal roosting sites, or in early fall to hone my wingshooting skills for impending waterfowl and small game pursuits.
In instances where securing access to a major crow roost proves challenging, leveraging the territorial and defensive instincts of crows can serve as a viable strategy. By identifying potential hunting locales near crow family groups, one can deploy an owl decoy on a conspicuous stump or fencepost, complemented by crow decoys and calls. This setup entices crows within view towards the decoy, presenting ample shooting opportunities.
It is crucial to acknowledge that crows are astute, robust, and aerially adept creatures, posing a formidable challenge for hunters. Employing high-quality, long-range shotgun loads and varying hunting positions regularly are essential tactics. Repeatedly setting up in the same location can educate crows, prompting alterations in their flight patterns.
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