Crows have mastered art of survival in midst of urban traffic, human activities

By Mark DaCosta- The bustling intersection at Lamaha and Vlissengen Street in Georgetown, Guyana, is not just a crossroads for vehicles; it’s also a stage where a peculiar yet fascinating play unfolds every day, starring a group of highly intelligent crows. These birds have not only adapted to urban life but seem to have mastered the art of survival in the midst of traffic and human activities.

Standing on the corner, one could observe these crows diligently going about their daily routine. One of their most intriguing behaviors involves the nearby fruit trees, whose branches hang over the street. The crows, with a keen eye for ripe offerings, pluck fruits like almonds and carry them to the street below. However, their intent is not to feast on the succulent flesh but rather to harness the power of passing cars.

These feathered urbanites strategically place the fruits on the road, precisely where the traffic flow is most concentrated. It’s a spectacle to behold as cars unknowingly crush the tough outer shells, revealing the coveted almond nuts inside. The crows, ever resourceful, swoop down to claim their prize, picking up the exposed nuts with precision and speed. It’s a testament to their ability to adapt and find innovative ways to access food sources in an urban environment.

But their culinary skills don’t end there. The crows also exhibit a remarkable understanding of the traffic lights. As the lights change from red to green, the crows seem to adjust their behavior accordingly. When the intersection comes to a standstill with a red signal, they take advantage of the pause, confidently hopping onto the road to inspect the aftermath of crushed nuts and snatch any overlooked treasures.

As the light transitions to green, signaling the surge of oncoming traffic, the crows retreat to the safety of the roadside. It’s a dance of survival, a choreography with the city’s rhythm, where these intelligent birds navigate the ebb and flow of vehicles with surprising finesse. Their ability to synchronise their actions with the changing lights hints at a level of cognitive understanding that goes beyond mere instinct.

Another intriguing aspect of their behavior is the way they consume the seeds within the almond nuts. The crows, using their sharp beaks, expertly crack open the shells to access the nutritious interior. It’s a skill that not only demonstrates their adaptability but also highlights their problem-solving abilities. The almond nuts, once discarded by human passersby, become a valuable resource for these birds, showcasing their ability to turn a seemingly ordinary urban setting into a pantry of possibilities.

The intersection at Lamaha and Vlissengen Street has unwittingly become a stage for the daily drama of these crows, showcasing their intelligence, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Their ability to utilise the surrounding environment, understand traffic signals, and employ innovative tactics for securing food sets them apart as urban dwellers with a keen sense of survival.

Watching these crows at the corner of Lamaha and Vlissengen, observers can’t help but marvel at the intricate relationship they’ve formed with the urban landscape. It’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature, where even the most unexpected creatures find a way to thrive in the midst of human activity. The crows of Georgetown are not just bystanders in the city’s hustle and bustle; they are active participants, weaving their intelligence into the very fabric of urban life.