Yes it is illegal to kill crows, so the use of an air rifle or bb gun can be effective, especially when underpowered, or in a residential area .
I consider it a 'persuader' to let the crows know that they are unwelcomed; and crows are remarkably intelligent, social, and have a 'memory'.
The local laws prevent discharge of firearms within the village limits, however an air rifle or bb gun does not issue a loud report, so it will not upset the locals.
My crow blind (AKA bedroom window) was used once this spring and the crows have not returned - thanks to their social skills and memory, which works to your advantage.
They don't like sudden unexpected noises, or sudden movement even if you miss either purposely or by accident.
On the other hand , our regional drought may have encouraged the crows to look elsewhere for greener pastures and gardens for bugs and grubs .
Actually, I’m on acreage, zoned ‘agriculture’ so I don’t have neighbors that close. We target practice in the back fields so I could likely get by with shooting a crow(s). I won’t because it is currently illegal.
Unfortunately for me, we have some “attractants” in addition to the garden: 3 old grape vines that have green grapes they’re eating, 5 redbuds with seed ‘pods’ hanging that they’re into, blue cedar ‘berries’, and something on 2 small holly trees that they’re eating. They also like the shade of a large elm that is nearby. The garden is ‘dessert’ and easy pickings ... or at least it was until I got out the netting.
No air or BB gun .... I’ll check with a relative & see if they have one. Once the fence goes up, they’ll be kept out of the garden so I won’t have to worry. I’ve been after them all week & now if they just see a slight movement at the door, they’re off to the woods. I’d love to know what they’re saying ‘cause when they see me, they definitely have something to say ... probably couldn’t repeated on a family site. :-)
They wore black; it was dark; I really coundn't see their faces; they were speaking a foreign language; a whole group of them came at me...
Really Judge; what would YOU have done in my place?