Ravens

Ravens are common throughout the park, like this one perched on the South Rim.

NPS

 

Scientific name

Raven:Corvus corax

Identification

• Completely black coloration, including feet and beak.
• Wingspan of generally around 3-4 ft (91-122 cm).
• More acrobatic in the air than most other birds, often seen swooping and rolling in the air.
• Most often heard making a low, gurgling croak vocalization.

Habitat

• Ravens are found throughout the Western United states, almost all of Canada, and parts of the Appalachian Mountains.
• Ravens can be found throughout the Grand Canyon, but are most frequently seen on the Rims, and flying along the edge of the Canyon.

Behavior

• Ravens are omnivores that feed on insects, rodents, lizards, carrion, garbage, and human food.
• Ravens are some of the most intelligent animals in the world, and will work together to steal food from humans- even unzipping packs and opening sealed bags.
• They are very agile and acrobatic fliers, and one of the only birds that can fly upside down. If you see a raven on the rim, watch it sour, swoop, and tumble.
• Each pair will have 4-6 offspring per year. Both parents help raise the chicks, which leave the nest 5-6 weeks after hatching.

 

More Information

Keep Wildlife Wild! Ravens are commonly seen in campgrounds and stealing food from humans.Please keep your food stored away and do not feed them!

Guide to Ravens by All About Birds