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Conservation status: Green

The raven is a big black bird, a member of the crow family. It is massive - the biggest member of the crow family. It is all black with a large bill, and long wings. In flight, it shows a diamond-shaped tail.

Ravens breed mainly in the west and north although they are currently expanding their range eastwards. Most birds are residents, though some birds - especially non-breeders and young birds - wander from their breeding areas but do not travel far.

Overview

Latin name

Corvus corax

Family

Crows and allies (Corvidae)

Where to see them

Best looked for in upland areas of south-west England, Wales, the north Pennines and Lake District and much of Scotland.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Carrion

Population

EuropeUK breeding*UK wintering*UK passage*
-12,900 pairs--

Distribution

Key

Illustrations

Audio

Jordi Calvet, Xeno-canto

Characteristics

Raven

Raven
  • Size: bigger than mallard
  • Feather colours: black, blue
  • Beak colours: black/dark grey
  • Beak length: medium
  • Beak thickness: medium
  • Beak shape: medium
  • Leg colour: black/grey
  • Behaviour: part of flock, on ground, bird walks/runs on the ground, eats birds/chicks/eggs

Similar birds