Raven Basics 

Ravens are highly intelligent and adaptable birds found across much of the Northern Hemisphere. Known for their glossy black feathers and impressive wingspan, of around 1.21m. On average, these birds can live for 10 to 15 years in the wild, though some individuals have been known to reach up to 21 years, whilst in captivity they have been known to live for up to 40 years.

Ravens are widely distributed, inhabiting varied environments such as forests, mountains, deserts, and even urban areas. Their adaptability is a key factor in their success as a species. Despite being illegal in the UK (Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981), wild ravens have been subject to widespread persecution and incidents of shot or poisoned birds are all too common

When it comes to breeding, ravens form strong monogamous bonds, often mating for life. Their courtship displays include aerial acrobatics and mutual grooming, signifying their close partnerships. Nests are typically built high in trees or on cliffs, using twigs and lined with softer materials like moss and fur. Females lay 3 to 7 eggs, which both parents help incubate for about 20 to 25 days. Once hatched, raven chicks stay in the nest for several weeks, relying on their parents for food and protection. Once fledged at around 35 - 42 days, raven young will stay with their parents for around 6 months. Juveniles will begin to court at a young age but rarely pair bond or breed for a further 2 or 3 years

The diet of a raven is incredibly varied, reflecting their opportunistic nature. They are omnivorous and feed on a mix of carrion, insects, small animals, seeds, and fruits. Ravens are also known to scavenge and occasionally cache food for later consumption. Their intelligence allows them to solve problems and adapt their feeding habits to their environment, making them one of nature’s most resourceful survivors.