Northern Raven

Corvus corax

 

Common Raven is jet black in color, between 56 and 69 cm (22 to 27 inches) in length, with recorded weights ranging from 0.69 to 1.63 kg (1.5 to 3.6 pounds). Common Ravens typically live about 10 to 15 years in the wild, although life spans of up to 40 years have been recorded. Young birds may travel in flocks, but later mate for life, with each mated pair defending a territory.

 

Ravens are very intelligent birds and will surprise you with their tenacity in obtaining or stealing your food. Several cultures have revered the Raven as a spiritual figure or god. My son and I met a very large Raven after parking near a trail head in the Canadian Rockies. This Raven had a bold approach looking for something to eat, it was obvious this Raven was used to others feeding it. We ignored it and went or way, upon our return the Raven had defecated all over the hood and windshield of my truck? The other vehicles parked beside us were clean. Hmm, makes one wonder, if we meet again I'm not sure if I will throw it a snack or a rock?

 

If you hear the call of a Raven or a group of Ravens when hiking in the back country, beware, they often call out when over top of other animals or an animal kill.