Common Raven (Corvus corax)

Crow and Jay Family (Corvidae)
Common Raven is a relatively large glossy black bird, reaching about 2 ft or more long, up to a 4-5 ft wingspan, and 1.5 to 4.4 lbs. In sunlight, the feathers can display a blue or purple sheen due to its iridescence. Its throat feathers are long and shaggy. It has a dark brown iris and a large, thick, slightly curved, black beak. Nasal bristles are on top of bill, covering the basal third to half of the bill. Its tail is long and wedge-shaped. Juveniles similar, but duller and with a blue-grey iris. Its call includes a distinctive, deep, resonant prruk-prruk-prruk; high, knocking toc-toc-toc; a dry, grating kraa; and a low guttural rattle, among others. It can mimic other sounds, including human speech. Usually mates for life. Female lays 3-7 pale bluish-green, brown-blotched eggs starting in late February in a large cup-shaped nest. Can live up to 23 years in the wild and 40+ years in captivity. It does not migrate, except when found in arctic habitats. Found across the northern hemisphere in many different habitats, it is the most widely distributed of all corvids. Eats an opportunistic omnivorous diet, including carrion, insects, grains, berries, fruit, small animals, and food waste. Will follow other predators, like wolves, to scavenge from their kills. A known bird nest predator, consuming eggs, chicks and sometimes adult birds. Will store surplus food and steal and cache shiny objects. Known for its problem-solving behavior, it is considered to be highly intelligent. Its often walks on the ground, but is also an excellent acrobatic flier, often doing rolls and somersaults in the air. Considered a pest in some areas, while revered as a spiritual figure or god in other areas or cultures. At least 8 subspecies are recognized. Also known as the Northern Raven.

Listed as Threatened in KY and TN; Rare in GA; and Species of Concern in OH.


Copyright Brett Miley