Backyard Birds

White-necked Ravens

The White-necked Raven (Corvus albicollis) occurs naturally in eastern and southern Africa, where it inhabits open, mountainous country. They often visit small towns and villages located near their mountain habitat.

Description

The White-necked Raven is named for the white band on the back of its lower back.

It measures about 50-54 cm in length.

The plumage is mostly black; except for the blackish-brown throat, chest, and neck, with a faint purple gloss.

It has a shorter tail and a deeper bill than its relative the Thick-billed Raven. Its black bill is strongly arched.

Diet / Feeding

White-necked Ravens mostly feed on the ground, but may also forage on trees.

They also take carrion (dead animals) and have been seen to drop tortoises from a height onto hard ground.

Additionally, they will eat fruits, grain, insects, small reptiles, peanuts and human food.

Nesting / Breeding

White-necked Ravens mostly nest on the ledges of cliffs; although may also nest in trees.

The average clutch consists of 3 – 5 eggs.

Calling / Vocalizations

They calls are similar to those of the common raven, except with a more husky note.

Crow InformationRaven Information PagePhotos of Raven Species for Identification

 
 
 

Gordon Ramel

Gordon is an ecologist with two degrees from Exeter University. He's also a teacher, a poet and the owner of 1,152 books. Oh - and he wrote this website.

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