Crow Rule
So thanks to our new crow friends we have to be aware of the following rule...
Rule 9.6 Ball
Lifted or Moved by Outside Influence
If it is known or
virtually certain that an outside influence lifted or moved a player’s ball:
There is no penalty ,
and
The ball must be
replaced on its original spot (which if not known must be estimated)
This applies whether
or not the player’s ball is found.
So this is what you would do if you saw a crow take
your ball.
However, you can’t assume that this is the case. It must
be known or virtually certain. For example, if you hit the ball into the
rough or over a hill and it can’t be seen, even if crows are around, you don’t
know for sure that a crow took it, it may simply be a lost ball.
On the other hand, if you and your marker quite clearly saw a ball finish
in the middle of the fairway, saw a crow flying nearby and then your ball was no
longer there, then you may be virtually certain that the crow took it.
So, it is very important to keep an eye on your ball if you
know crows are around and maybe send one or two players ahead to try to ward
them off!
Note also, that this rule applies if any of the following other outside influences takes your ball...any person(including another player) except you or your partner or opponent, any animal (eg dogs) any natural or artificial object, such as another ball striking it or a truck or a buggy running over it). It does not include natural forces such as wind.
