A massive intelligent crow relative — one of the smartest non-human animals known. Solves complex puzzles, uses tools, and remembers human faces.

Also called: Raven, Common Raven

Native status: Native; widespread across Northern Hemisphere

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 56–69 cm (22–27 in); wingspan 1.2–1.5 m
Weight800–1,600 g (1.8–3.5 lb)
LifespanWild typically 13 years; oldest documented 30
OrderPasseriformes
FamilyCorvidae

§ Encyclopedia

The common raven or northern raven is a large all-black passerine bird. It is the most widely distributed of all corvids, found across the Northern Hemisphere. There are 11 accepted subspecies with little variation in appearance, although recent research has demonstrated significant genetic differences among populations from various regions. It is one of the two largest corvids, alongside the thick-billed raven, and is the heaviest passerine bird; at maturity, the common raven averages 63 centimetres in length and 1.47 kilograms in weight, up to 2 kg (4.4 lb) in the heaviest individuals. Although their typical lifespan is considerably shorter, common ravens can live more than 23 years in the wild. Young birds may travel in flocks but later mate for life, with each mated pair defending a territory.

Source: Wikipedia — Common raven Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive all-black bird with shaggy throat feathers, wedge-shaped tail, large heavy bill.

Similar species. American Crow (smaller, fan-shaped tail). Chihuahuan Raven (very similar; mostly southwestern).

Voice. Wide variety: deep croaks, knocks, gurgles, even mimicry.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Omnivorous: carrion, insects, small mammals, eggs, fruit, garbage, virtually anything.

Behavior. Among the smartest non-human animals. Forms long-term pair bonds. Solves complex puzzles requiring planning ahead.

§ Range

Across most of North America

§ Habitat

Diverse: forests, deserts, mountains, suburbs

§ Threats

Persecution from misunderstanding, vehicle strikes, pesticide bioaccumulation.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the common raven is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Don't kill ravens. Appreciate their intelligence. Tolerate scavenging behavior.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab — All About Birds
  • National Audubon Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2017