I recall the story, and the attention the author received.

I can imagine this working, but digging into it at the time, there was no validation it worked at all. I couldn't get videos of it working, or even a cogent response from the author.

One of the things people seem to miss, is that bring intelligent doesn't mean domesticated. Or that an animal domesticates well.

Crows can understand a great deal, but does that mean they care to do your bidding? Even for treats?

Take a look at the differences between cats and dogs. You can train cats, but often they barely care. Dogs are, however, far easier to train.

Likely a difference in external validation.

And after all, what is true value to a crow? City crows seem to have an easy time of it. I don't think they go hungry, and there is lots of free tasty food.

So why would they care?