Researchers for the Massachusetts Turnpike
Authority found over 200 dead crows near greater Boston recently, and
there was concern that they may have died from Avian Flu. A Bird
Pathologist examined the remains of all the crows, and, to everyone's
relief, confirmed the problem was definitely NOT Avian Flu. The
cause of death appeared to be vehicular impacts.
By analyzing these paint residues it was determined that 98% of the
crows had been killed by impact with trucks, while only 2% were killed
by an impact with a car.
However, during the detailed analysis it was
noted that varying colors of paints appeared on the bird's beaks and
claws. By analyzing these paint residues it was determined that
98% of the crows had been killed by impact with trucks, while only 2%
were killed by an impact with a car.
MTA then hired an Ornithological Behaviorist to determine if
there was a cause for the disproportionate percentages of truck kills
versus car kills.
The Ornithological Behaviorist very quickly concluded the cause: when
crows eat road kill, they always have a look-out crow in a nearby tree
to warn of impending danger.
The conclusion was that while all the lookout crows could say "Cah",
none could say "Truck."
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