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Common Raven (Northern Raven)
Primary flight feather, outer primary (P8-P10)

Common Raven (Northern Raven)

Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Passeriformes, Family: Corvidae, Genus: Corvus, Species: C. corax

Family: Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Ravens)

Shape
Asymmetrical vane, slightly curved with a tapered, rounded tip, exhibiting slight emargination on the outer web typical of outer primaries.
Size
Approximately 25 cm (about 10 inches) long, consistent with a medium-to-large outer primary flight feather for this species.
Rarity
Common and widespread across its natural geographic range.
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Description

The Common Raven is the largest of all passerines, known for its intelligence, complex vocalizations, and striking all-black plumage. Its feathers showcase intense structural coloration with deep metallic green and purple sheens.

Colour & Pattern

Solid glossy black base with striking structural iridescence exhibiting vibrant green and purple sheens under direct light.

Barb Structure

Strongly pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs and well-developed barbicels forming a solid, resilient vane. Base possesses small, semiplume-like downy barbs.

Texture & Surface

Smooth, glossy, and stiff, with a resilient vane designed to withstand high aerodynamic pressure and repel moisture.

Key Features

Large size (approx. 25 cm), dark black coloration with distinctive metallic green and purple iridescence, and stiff, asymmetrical vane structure.

Habitat

Open landscapes, coniferous forests, rocky cliffs, deserts, and tundras, often near human settlements in mountainous or rural areas.

Geographic Range

Widespread across the Holarctic region, encompassing much of North America, Europe, and northern Asia.

Ecological Role

Acts as an important apex scavenger and seed disperser, helping maintain clean ecosystems by consuming carrion.

Similar Species

American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), whose feathers are significantly smaller, and Fish Crow (Corvus ossifragus), which is also smaller with a higher-pitched call.

Interesting Facts

Ravens are renowned for their problem-solving abilities, tool use, and playful acrobatics in flight. They feature prominently in the mythology and folklore of many indigenous cultures.

Condition Notes

Good condition with minor wear along the distal edges, typical of a naturally molted feather found in the field.

Notes

25cm long with green sheen

Common Raven (Northern Raven) | Feather Identifier