Creature Feature – Meet the Raven

Whenever I hear the deep, rollicking croak of ravens flying overhead, I always stop what I’m doing to watch, because often as not, they will be engaged in some sort of aerial monkeyshines. Ravens are acrobats on the wing, frequently performing barrel rolls and somersaults in mid-air, seemingly just for the fun of it. One bird was observed flying upside down for over a mile! Yes, without a doubt, ravens are playful, mischievous birds. They engage in mock duels using twigs and will brashly nip at the rumps of bears and coyotes. Native Americans were also captivated by ravens, which they often portrayed as clever tricksters in cultural lore.

Ravens are larger and bulkier than crows, with a thicker bill and shaggy throat feathers. In flight, their tail is wedge-shaped, versus the flatter tail found on crows. Like their corvid cousins, ravens are highly intelligent birds that can problem solve, use tools, and grasp the concept of cause and effect. For centuries, they shadowed our wagons and sleds in hopes of scoring food. One study found that during hunting season, some ravens are attracted by gunshots, having made the connection between the crack of a rifle and an animal carcass (one example of why sporting lead-free is critical to protecting wildlife). Ravens also mimic the calls of other birds, and those raised in captivity can even imitate human words. 

Just another black bird? Quote the raven, “Nevermore!”

Article by Margie Manthey
Photo by Tammy Nash