Brown-necked Raven

Overview

The brown-necked raven (Corvus ruficollis) is a large raven species found across North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of the Middle East. It is slightly smaller than the common raven but larger than the carrion crow, featuring a distinct brownish-black head and throat.

Identification

• Length of 52–56 cm with similar proportions to the common raven but a less deep bill and more pointed wings.
• Plumage is black with purple or blue glosses, though feathers often fade to a brownish-black.
• Head and throat are distinctly brownish-black, contrasting with the black body, legs, and bill.
• Vocalisations consist of croaks similar to the common raven but higher in pitch, including a harsh 'karr-karr-karr' and a 'kuerk-kuerk' call in flight.

Habitat

This species inhabits a wide range across North Africa down to Kenya, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Greater Middle East. It predominantly lives in desert environments, frequently visiting oases and palm groves.

Diet

Diet includes carrion, snakes, locusts, grasshoppers, stranded fish, stolen grain, dates, and other fruits. The species is capable of cooperative hunting behaviour, such as blocking exits while others hunt lizards.

Did you know?

Although vocal mimicry is mostly recorded in captivity, it can occur rarely in the wild. The bird is fearless when not persecuted but becomes quickly wary and shy if given too much attention.