I just saw something remarkable (and sad, although natural) outside my
office window here in Richmond.

I looked out my window when I heard an incredible squeaking/chirping -- the
clear sound of birds in distress.  A crow flew by with what appeared to be a
baby bird in its mouth. A whole crowd of smaller birds of various species
was flying alongside and behind the crow in a complete panic, including at
least one robin but a number of other smaller birds as well.  The robin
seemed most distressed and the baby bird was on the largish side, but I have
no way of knowing what species it was.  I didn't have binoculars on the
birds -- it all happened pretty fast -- but the crow did double back, other
birds still in hot pursuit, so I was able to confirm what I saw with some
confidence.

This is the first time I have ever actually witnessed predatory behavior by
a crow on another bird, although I know it happens. Shows why the Red-Winged
Blackbirds go so bezerk when crows venture nearby.

Miriam Lawrence
Monkton