Sheryl
American Crow Ambassador
Female
2004 / Juvenile
Imprinted
About Sheryl
A Liberty Wildlife volunteer found Sheryl Crow on the ground and was concerned because she thought Sheryl Crow looked ragged and would not fly from humans. It was determined she was imprinted and non-releasable because of her comfort with humans.
Description
American crows are large, intelligent, all-black birds with hoarse, cawing voices.
Habitat
American crows are often around open areas near patches of woods, or in human-modified landscapes like city parks, garbage dumps, campgrounds, manicured lawns, athletic fields, cemeteries, and parking lots.
Range
American Crows are found from Canada and south through the United States. They are notably absent from much of the American Southwest as they do not live in deserts.
Life Span
The average life expectancy of the Harris’ hawk has been estimated to be up to 12 years in the wild and twice as long in captivity.
Prey / Food
The majority of its prey consists of mammals such as cottontail rabbits, jackrabbits, rats, ground squirrels, gophers. Their diet is also supplemented by birds, primarily Gambel’s quail, and reptiles.
Babies / Food
Nests of sticks and other materials are built in or on top of solid structures such as trees, saguaros, electric or telephone poles. The female usually lays 3 to 4 eggs and incubation lasts between 31 and 36 days. The young fledge in about 40 days.
Native American Folklore
“When we plant corn, we place seven or eight seeds in each hole. Of course, we don’t need to grow that many plants for ourselves, but one plant is for Mouse and two are for Crow. They need to eat, too, you know, and they like corn just as we do.” –Clifford Balenquah, Navajo
Crow’s black feathers represent the night sky, its piercing eyes symbolizing the stars, and its cawing voice echoing the whispers of the ancestors.
In Native folklore Crow, is a Spirit Animal, a messenger of wisdom and knowledge. Crows’ presence often signifies the arrival of important messages, insights, or warnings, helping individuals to navigate the complexities of life’s journey.
Like his big cousin, Raven, Native people see Crow as a trickster. In numerous stories Crow appears as a trickster, playing pranks on other animals and humans alike. These tricks often convey moral lessons about the importance of honesty, humility, and respect for others.
Crow is revered as a symbol of transformation and adaptability. Crows’ ability to shed its feathers and emerge with renewed plumage is like the process of personal growth and change. Crow reminds us of our ability to evolve, adapt to life’s challenges, and emerge stronger from adversity.
In some creation stories, Native people credited Crow with creating the world. In one story, Crow flies over a vast expanse of nothingness, carrying a small piece of earth in its beak. As it flies, it drops bits of earth, which gradually formed the land and mountains creating earth as we know it.
In some stories, Crow is depicted as a hero who steals fire from the gods and brings it to humans. This act of defiance and generosity earns the Crow immense respect and gratitude from Native people.
To all Natives, Crow is revered as a sacred animal. Its feathers are used in rituals, ceremonies, and healing practices. The crow’s presence is believed to bring blessings, protection, and spiritual guidance.
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