Common Raven

Overview

The largest corvid, all black with a thick bill, extremely intelligent and adaptable.

History & Origin

The Common Raven occurs naturally in Northern Hemisphere. Songbirds (Passeriformes) are the largest bird order, found in virtually every habitat on Earth and making up roughly half of all living bird species — from sparrows and finches to thrushes, crows and starlings.

Appearance & Size

It is a Large (56-69cm) bird. They are typically perching birds with anisodactyl feet and a highly developed syrinx (voice box); plumage and size vary enormously across the group.

Temperament & Behavior

Songbirds are social, vocal and often kept in flocks or pairs; many are beloved cage and aviary birds valued for their song, colour and tameness.

Care & Husbandry

Most eat seeds, insects, fruit and nectar in varying proportions; softbills need fruit and insects, granivores need seeds, and all benefit from variety. Companion songbirds need a clean, adequately sized cage or aviary, species-appropriate seed or soft diet, bathing water and enrichment; canaries and finches are among the most popular.

Health & Lifespan

Common issues include air-sac mite, trichomonosis, egg-binding and nutritional disease. With good care many songbirds live 10-20 years.

Popularity & Recognition

Songbirds dominate global bird diversity and include the world's most familiar urban and aviary species; their songs are central to human culture worldwide.