ravens
## 1. Bird Name
English name: Raven
Scientific (Latin) name: Corvus corax
## 2. Appearance
Common Ravens are large, black birds, sporting a shiny, somewhat iridescent plumage across their bodies. Their coloration varies from black to dark bluish or purplish-blue. They have a distinctive wedge-shaped tail and stout beak, which is hardy and slightly curved in design. The raven’s eyes are dark brown, and they sport prominent feather beard around their throat, a distinctive feature that sets them apart from the rest of the crow family. There are no discernible differences in appearance between males and females.
## 3. Size
Ravens are significantly larger than crows, averaging about 24–27 inches (60 – 70 centimeters) in length. They have an impressive wingspan, which typically ranges between 45 – 50 inches (115 – 130 cm). The weight of a typical adult raven ranges between 690 – 1,600 grams (1.5 – 3.5 lb).
## 4. Habitat & Distribution
Ravens are one of the most widespread bird species in the world, found across the northern hemisphere from the Arctic to the tropics. They thrive in diverse habitats including forests, coastal areas, mountains, tundras, deserts, and even urban environments.
## 5. Interesting Facts
Ravens are known for their incredible intelligence; they can solve complex problems, mimic human speech and use simple tools. They are also noted for their impressive aerial displays, performing somersaults in flight and soaring in the wind. Furthermore, ravens are deeply embedded in many human cultures and are often perceived as symbols of wisdom, death, or mischief.
## 6. Diet
Ravens are omnivores with a wide-ranging diet. They tend to eat carrion, insects, grains, berries, fruits, small animals, and food waste from human habitats. They are also known to hunt cooperatively in pairs or groups.
## 7. Behavior & Sounds
Ravens are social creatures, often found in pairs or even larger groups. They are renowned for their intricate communication capabilities, using over 20 different types of vocalizations to interact with each other. Their primary sound, often referred to as a “croak,” is a deep, resonant, guttural rattle that can carry over long distances.
## 8. Conservation Status
The Common Raven is not currently at risk and is categorized as of ‘Least Concern’ according to the IUCN Red List. However, they can be detrimentally impacted by habitat loss and persecution in places where they are considered a pest.
## 9. Lifespan
Ravens have a long lifespan compared to other birds. Generally, they can live up to 10 to 15 years in the wild, while some individuals have been reported to live up to 40 years in captivity.
## 10. Additional Notes
In many cultures, ravens are part of folklore and mythology. In Norse mythology, for instance, the god Odin had two ravens named Huginn and Muninn, representing thought and memory. In Native American cultures, they’re often portrayed as a trickster or creator figure. Ravens often form symbiotic relationships with other species, like wolves; they lead them to prey, which after being killed provides a meal for both the wolves and the ravens.
