Corvus corax

Common Raven

Family: Corvidae · Class: Aves · Order: Passeriformes

The Common Raven is the largest member of the corvid family in North America, measuring 56 to 69 cm (22 to 27 inches) in length with a wingspan of 115 to 150 cm (45 to 59 inches). Adults weigh between 689 to 1,625 grams (1.5 to 3.6 pounds), with males typically larger than females. The species displays entirely black plumage with a metallic sheen that can appear blue, green, or purple in sunlight. Ravens are distinguished from crows by their larger size, wedge-shaped tail in flight, and massive bill. The throat feathers are elongated and hackle-like, creating a shaggy appearance when erected during vocalizations. Common Ravens have one of the most extensive distributions of any bird species globally, occurring across much of the Northern Hemisphere. In California, they are found throughout the state from sea level to over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) elevation. The species inhabits diverse environments including coastal areas, deserts, mountains, forests, and urban environments. Ravens have expanded their range in some regions during the 20th century, particularly into areas where they were previously absent due to persecution. Ravens occupy varied habitats ranging from arctic tundra to hot deserts, demonstrating broad ecological tolerance. In California, they utilize coniferous and mixed forests, chaparral, grasslands, agricultural areas, and increasingly urban and suburban environments. The species shows preference for areas with cliffs, tall trees, or human-made structures for nesting. Ravens require open foraging areas combined with elevated perching and nesting sites. Common Ravens are omnivorous opportunists with a diet including carrion, small mammals, birds, eggs, insects, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and plant matter including seeds and fruits. They are highly social outside the breeding season, often forming flocks of dozens or occasionally hundreds of individuals. Breeding pairs are monogamous and territorial, typically nesting on cliff ledges or in tall trees. The female lays 3 to 7 eggs in early spring, with incubation lasting 18 to 21 days. Ravens demonstrate exceptional intelligence, using tools, solving complex problems, and exhibiting behaviors suggesting self-awareness and planning abilities. The Common Raven is not federally or state-listed and maintains stable populations throughout most of its range. The species is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Historically, ravens faced persecution and population declines in agricultural areas due to perceived threats to livestock, but populations have generally recovered and expanded. In some regions, ravens have benefited from human activities including increased road kill availability and refuse sources. Current threats are minimal and localized, primarily involving habitat loss in specific areas and occasional conflicts with human activities. The species' adaptability and intelligence have enabled successful coexistence with human development in many regions.

Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, and more.