Which birds can be legally killed in Pennsylvania when damaging fruit crops?

In Pennsylvania, certain birds are classified as nuisance species, particularly when they cause damage to agricultural crops, such as fruit crops. Crows and grackles are known for their potential to significantly impact these crops due to their feeding habits. As a result, they fall under the regulations that allow for control measures, including lethal methods, when they are causing crop damage.

The laws surrounding wildlife management in the state provide specific provisions for managing species that can harm agricultural interests, and both crows and grackles are included under these provisions. This recognition is essential for farmers and wildlife control operators, as effective management of these birds can help protect agricultural yields.

On the other hand, cardinals and sparrows are typically protected species and are not legally subject to killing for crop damage. Similarly, peacocks and swans are not considered nuisance birds in the context of agricultural protection and have their own regulations. Finally, hawks and eagles are protected by both federal and state laws due to their status as birds of prey, which further prohibits any form of lethal control. Therefore, the only choice that accurately represents the birds that can be legally killed in context of crop damage is crows and grackles.