Crow Finds a Brilliant Way to Drink Water Out of a Pool Without Falling in It
The old story of the thirsty crow dropping stones into a pitcher to raise the water level has been told for generations as a lesson about resourcefulness. A recent video gave that tale an unexpected twist. Instead of stones and a pitcher, this crow faced a swimming pool.
The edges were slick and risky, but the water was tempting. Rather than give up, the bird made a surprising choice. It hopped onto a floating pool skimmer, balanced with ease, and found a way to reach the liquid without tumbling in.
The Decision to Use a Float
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The float drifted across the surface, but the bird remained steady and shifted its weight as needed. That choice turned a dangerous edge into a platform that provided access to hydration with much less risk.
The act demonstrated problem-solving, which aligns with what researchers know about corvids. They adapt quickly and often find ways to use nearby objects as tools. In this case, the pool cleaner became a floating bridge. The bird’s confidence suggested it knew exactly what it was doing.
Behavior That Repeated Over Time
One detail that made this crow especially interesting was its consistency. The pool’s owner explained that the bird returned on several different days, always using the same method to hydrate.
Such repetition matters because it shows memory and deliberate choice. Corvids are skilled at remembering successful strategies and will often repeat them until conditions change.
Motives Beyond Simple Thirst
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The crow leaned toward the pool surface as if drinking, but that might not have been its only goal. Commenters speculated that insects resting on the surface could have been an easy meal. There were also viewers who pointed out that crows sometimes soak food to soften it before eating. Both explanations fit the situation.
There was also the possibility that the crow simply enjoyed the activity. Crows are known for playful behaviors, including sliding on snow and experimenting with moving objects. The repeated hops and calm balance gave the impression of both function and fun.
Not Every Sip Is Safe
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Watching a crow drink from a pool looks remarkable, but there’s a catch. Chlorinated water isn’t ideal for birds, and frequent exposure could be harmful. Some people suggest simple fixes, like adding floating ramps so animals can reach the edge safely or get out if they fall in.
In this case, though, the risk was less of a concern. The pool owner explained that the water was kept at a balanced pH with only light chlorine, and that plenty of local wildlife — from raccoons to squirrels — drank from it without issue. The crow wasn’t fed or coaxed; it chose the skimmer on its own and kept coming back.