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Common Raven, Northern Raven
Primary flight feather, likely outer primary

Common Raven, Northern Raven

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

Family: Corvidae (Crows and Jays)

Shape
Slightly asymmetrical vane with a rounded to slightly pointed tip and characteristic emargination on the outer web
Size
Approximately 10 to 14 inches long, consistent with a large corvid flight feather
Rarity
Common and widespread
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Description

A striking large black feather from the largest of the perching birds, known for its intelligence, acrobatic flight, and deep croaking vocalizations

Colour & Pattern

Solid glossy black with iridescent structural purple, blue, and green sheen under bright light, uniform across dorsal and ventral surfaces

Barb Structure

Tightly interlocked pennaceous barb structure with strong hooklets and barbicels, well-developed and intact along the vanes

Texture & Surface

Stiff, smooth, glossy, and firm texture with high rigidity designed to withstand aerodynamic forces during flight

Key Features

Large size, solid glossy black coloration with metallic iridescence, and stiff aerodynamic construction with notched outer vane

Habitat

Extremely versatile, found in forests, arid regions, open country, tundra, and coastal areas

Geographic Range

Widespread across the Holarctic region, including North America, Europe, and northern Asia

Ecological Role

Important scavenger and ecosystem cleaner, helping to recycle nutrients by consuming carrion

Similar Species

American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), which has significantly smaller feathers with less pronounced throat hackles and primary emargination

Interesting Facts

Ravens are known for complex problem-solving abilities, lifelong mating bonds, and playful aerial acrobatics

Condition Notes

Good condition with minor wear at the tip, showing intact barbs and a strong rachis

Notes

At the Woodland park zoo in Seattle Washington wear there are no Ravens Or Crows