Common Raven
A large, intelligent native generalist best appreciated as a wild landscape bird, not deliberately invited into a residential yard.
By Birdly Yard Editorial TeamReviewed Updated
Local season
Months with a state-level historical signal for this species.
Status
Backyard reports
Look for it
Look above open country, forest edges, ridges, large trees, and the outskirts of towns for soaring pairs or family groups.
Food
An opportunistic omnivore that eats carrion, insects, eggs, small animals, fruit, grain, pet food, and unsecured human food.
Nesting
Natural nesting guidance
Common Raven habitat
Open country, woodland, cliffs, large trees, and developed edges all support ravens when natural food and nesting sites are present.
Common Raven diet and food
An opportunistic omnivore that eats carrion, insects, eggs, small animals, fruit, grain, pet food, and unsecured human food.
Do not feed ravens or leave pet food, open trash, or large food scraps outside; those subsidies can create conflict and attract rodents.
Common Raven nesting and breeding
Builds a large stick nest on cliffs, trees, or structures; observe from a distance and leave nest areas quiet.
Common Raven behavior and where to look
Highly vocal, curious, and social; it may cache food and can prey on eggs or young birds when concentrated around nest sites.
Photography
Use a long lens from a public edge and let natural movement, flight, and calls create the scene.
What to avoid
Never use food to bring ravens close to the house or a songbird feeding station.
Continue exploring
Explore related bird guides
Compare food, habitat and nesting. Local seasonal records vary by species.
