Common Raven
Common Raven
Common Raven
Common Raven

Common Raven

Corvus corax

Call Christian Kahle

Mass

~930 g

Habitat

Forests

Diet

Omnivore

Lifespan

~22 лет

How to recognize it

Large all-black corvid, much bigger than a carrion crow or rook
Heavy high bill, shaggy throat feathers
Long wedge-shaped tail, steady soaring with few wingbeats
Deep resonant croak or clear “krruk”/“tok” call

The Common Raven stands out by its heavy, compact shape and powerful bill. In flight, the long wings and wedge-shaped tail are the easiest clues, while on the ground it looks calm and self-possessed.

It is wary, but also remarkably clever. It can spend long stretches soaring, make sharp aerial turns, and on the ground it walks, hops before takeoff, and watches everything closely. Its voice is deep and rough, with a resonant croak and a sharp “tok”.

It fits woods, cliffs, coasts, mountains, and even old parks with tall trees. It eats almost anything edible, especially carrion, but also takes grain, berries, fruit, small animals, and human food waste, and in many places stays year-round.

I saw it today!