House Corvids
Although we do not recommend keeping corvids, especially the larger ones, in cages; imprinted captive birds can be kept in a cage on an evening in the house, although they must have an outdoor space so that they can exercise and get some fresh air.
Imprinted birds do actually benefit from spending time indoors, viewing their human companions as they would other birds. This is beneficial since birds kept in an aviary full time can sometimes loose the contact with people they require.
You may also wish to bring your bird inside for the colder winter months, but please do not leave the bird in the cage for long periods of time. Crows are more intelligent than parrots and need the same commitment as a dog - if not more.
Do not take on an imprinted covrid unles you have plenty of time. Rest assured, their condition will quickly go downhill if they are left alone for long periods of time.
Do not take on a captive-bred bird if the breeder seems unconcerned where it is going to - you will only be lining the breeder’s pockets so that he can continue to breed more birds with no regard for their welfare.
Another thing we should mention is the fact that corvids, especially crows and ravens, can become over attached to one person - even to the point that they begin to see other people and animals as a threat to the relationship, and will react with displays of aggression towards the “intruder”.
This is probably because they are territorial in the wild and see you as their “mate”. This behaviour should not be encouraged, though sometimes it may be unavoidable.
Try to get your corvid accustomed to meeting new people, and allow other people to offer its favourite treats.
If you are considering buying a captive-bred corvid, make sure if is closed rung (an unbroken loop of metal around the bird’s leg with details of its hatch-date and other information) and that the breeder has a good history.