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Bird Identification

Jays, Crows & Allies

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Common Raven

Corvus corax L 24" (61cm)


play song/call of the common raven

Photo by Maslowski Wildlife Productions.

The common raven is one of the most widespread birds in the world, being found on virtually every continent. In North America they are found across most of Canada and the western United States, but in the East they are generally limited to the higher mountains. They are separated from crows by their large size, massive bill, and wedge shaped tail, evident in flight. Ravens are, like most members of the family, highly adaptable, and can be found in habitats ranging from deserts to forests to boreal bogs. They eat almost anything, including small animals and birds, eggs, roadkill, fruits, insects, amphibians and reptiles, and garbage. The nest is most often in a tree but in some areas they favor rock ledges. They have a large vocal repertoire but the most common call is a deep, hoarse croak.

Bird song courtesy of Lang Elliott, NatureSound Studio.

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