While these observations are all true, what the authors failed to mention is that crows being omnivores (hinted in the letter), they are primarily responsible for the disappearance of other smaller birds in our neighborhoods.
The couple of crows which began patrolling our neighborhood a few years ago have now grown into larger flocks which scurry through tree canopies on an almost daily basis, searching for nests with eggs, chicks or other food supplies. Previously, these trees have been the nesting sites for a variety of smaller birds which have now mostly disappeared as a result of these raids.
This year, I can hear in my backyard only a lone pair of mourning doves calling at dawn -- no more regular visits by robins, shrieking blue jays or nighttime entertainment by the ever-so-vocal mockingbirds.
I share the views of both writers about the beauty of "wildlife" and amazing intelligence of these crows, but unfortunately their ever-increasing presence is at the expense of all of our other beloved and perhaps more attractive feathered companions.
These crows have become a most destructive invasive force against our native songbird population.
