Australian Raven
Least ConcernCorvus coronoides
Visual Identification
Australian Raven
Appearance
The Australian Raven is a large, glossy black bird with a robust build and a heavy, slightly curved bill. Its most distinctive feature is the hackles on its throat, which are elongated and often fluffed out during vocalisations. Adult birds' eyes are strikingly white, contrasting sharply with their black plumage.
Juveniles can be distinguished by their brown eyes, which gradually change to white as they mature. In bright sunlight, the bird's plumage has a slight purple, blue, or green sheen, adding depth to its otherwise all-black appearance.
Size
Length
46cm to 53cm
Wingspan
100cm to 112cm
Weight
580g to 680g
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Black
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Black
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
The Australian Raven is widely distributed across southern and eastern Australia, including Tasmania. It thrives in various habitats, from coastal areas and open woodlands to agricultural lands and urban environments. These adaptable birds are particularly common in suburban settings, where they exploit abundant food sources.
While primarily sedentary, some populations may undertake local movements in response to food availability or seasonal changes. Their range has expanded in recent decades, particularly in urban and agricultural areas where they benefit from human-modified landscapes.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 2,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subtropical
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Australian Ravens are opportunistic omnivores with a diverse diet. They feed on insects, small vertebrates, eggs, carrion, and various plant matter, including seeds and fruits.
They've adapted to scavenge human food waste in urban areas, demonstrating their dietary flexibility and problem-solving skills in accessing new food sources.
Australian ravens have been observed attacking weak or sick lambs and other larger animals. Their powerful, heavy-set beak is ideal for picking and ripping at corpses.
Behaviour
Australian Ravens are highly social birds, often seen in pairs or small family groups. They exhibit complex problem-solving skills, using tools to extract food and demonstrate remarkable memory.
These birds are known for their playful behaviour. They engage in aerial acrobatics and even slide down roofs for apparent enjoyment.
Vocalisation
The Australian Raven's call is a distinctive, drawn-out 'aah-aah-aaaah' with a gargling quality, often described as a 'death rattle'. This vocalisation is longer and more complex than that of other Australian corvids.
During social interactions, the Australian Raven also produces a variety of softer croaks, warbles, and whistles.
Nesting & Breeding
Australian Ravens form monogamous pairs that often mate for life. The breeding season typically occurs from July to September, with some regional variations. Courtship involves aerial displays and mutual preening.
Nests are large, bowl-shaped structures made of sticks and lined with softer materials like grass, bark, and wool. They are usually placed high in tall trees, often eucalypts. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are pale green to bluish-green with brown and black markings.
Both parents incubate the eggs for about 20 days. Nestlings are altricial and fledge after 40-45 days but continue to be fed by parents for several months after leaving the nest. Young birds may stay with their parents for up to two years, helping to raise subsequent broods.
Lifespan
The Australian Raven typically lives for 15 to 20 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 22.5 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
The Australian Raven is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its large range and increasing population. However, like many urban-adapted species, it faces challenges from habitat modification and human-wildlife conflict.
Conservation efforts focus on maintaining healthy ecosystems and promoting coexistence in urban areas.
Population Data
Global Population Estimate
Not quantified, but common throughout its range
Global Population Trend
Birdwatching Tips
- Listen for their distinctive, drawn-out 'aah-aah-aaaah' call, which differs from other Australian corvids
- Look for them in open woodlands, urban parks, and agricultural areas
- Observe their throat hackles, which are prominently displayed during vocalisations
- Watch for their intelligent foraging behaviour, often involving tool use
- In urban areas, they're frequently seen scavenging near picnic spots and rubbish bins
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Southern Raven
Family:
CorvidaePredators
Did You Know?
- Australian Ravens can mimic human speech and a wide range of other sounds in captivity.
- They have been observed using tools, such as twigs, to probe for insects in tree bark.
- These birds play an important role in ecosystem health by cleaning up carrion and controlling insect populations.
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References
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website: BirdLife International. 2016. Corvus coronoides. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T22706033A94047450.
View source - 1
website: ABBBS - Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme
View source