Raven or Crow? How would you know? 

September 20, 2023 - A common case of mistaken identity in Yosemite National Park occurs when our resident common ravens (Corvus corax) are identified as crows. Though similar in appearance, there are a few key distinctions you can use to identify the former, one of the most commonly observed birds in the park.

Begin with the bill, a chisel-shape, more robust than a crow's delicate variant.

Next- the feathers. Whilst the crow wears a sleek, smooth suit, the raven’s is scruffy. A story found in Legends of the Yosemite Miwok of Kah'-kool the raven, tells of how the raven became a great hunter only after rubbing his body in charcoal, the first iteration of the iridescent black cloak we see ravens sporting today.

Identifying ravens in the air is easier. Ragged wingtips span, followed by a diamond-shaped tail. Crows keep a lower profile, with blunt wingtips and a square-shaped tail.

Meadows, clearings, pines, firs, and conifers are where ravens reside. Sometimes they seek prey and other times scavenge. Countless tales have been told about raven's intelligence and mischievous nature; you may even have a story of your own?

Don’t just look but listen too. Raven vocalizations are varied, and their diverse vocabulary includes distinct calls to alarm other ravens, assert dominance, and announce their presence in a new territory.

Add ravens to the species you know and keep your eyes on the sky; your birding skills will grow!

Source & photo: YNP