March 12, 2002

Raven
Corvus corax

Description: You can identify this large black bird by its rounded tail and stout beak. This bird can be found in many areas. In the desert, it nests on cliffs and in trees. Often will rest and sleep with several hundred of its relatives.

Diet: Insects, small mammals, reptiles, frogs, eggs, young and wounded birds, grain, fruit and all types of carrion.

Reproduction: Female incubates 3 - 7 eggs for 18 - 21 days. Male feeds female during incubation. Young are tended by both parents and leave nest in 5 - 6 weeks.

Interesting and Unique: Since this bird lacks raptor like feet, it kills its prey with it hard beak