Common raven
Corvus corax
The common raven or northern raven (Corvus corax) is a large all-black passerine bird.
About the Common raven
The common raven or northern raven (Corvus corax) 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 (25 inches) in length and 1.47 kilograms (3.2 pounds) 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 l
Fun Facts About Common raven
- 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 (25 inches) in length and 1.47 kilograms (3.2 pounds) in weight, up to 2 kg (4.4 lb) in the heaviest individuals.
- Some notable feats of problem-solving provide evidence that the common raven is unusually intelligent.
- Part of their success as a species is due to their omnivorous diet; they are extremely versatile and opportunistic in finding sources of nutrition, feeding on carrion, insects, cereal grains, berries, fruit, small animals, nesting birds, and food waste.
- 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.
Conservation Status
The Common raven is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | passerines |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | Corvus corax |
Range & Habitat
🛍️ Common raven Gifts & Merch
Show your love for common ravens! Find t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, mugs, and more at our store.
Browse Common raven Merch →Related Species
Other species in the Corvidae family: