In Virginia we are fortunate to have among our feathered friends a bird that is considered one of the most intelligent of birds: the raven. When Edgar Allen Poe published "The Raven" he did this bird a disservice, painting it in a dreary tale of loss and loneliness. These birds have quite a lot to offer the birding enthusiast.
Ravens are about the size of a hawk and are covered from head to tail with glossy black feathers. They have a deep throaty call, sometimes referred to as a "rronk," but have been known to make a variety of musical calls as well. Perhaps one of the most impressive facts about the raven is its flight, as it is often seen soaring and wheeling in the sky in an acrobatic display. These displays are usually performed with a mate, but can also be seen demonstrated by a single individual. Biologists surmise they do this for fun. Wouldn't you?
Ravens have been found in many different habitats, including deserts, tundra and sea coasts. In Virginia, you only have to go as far as the Blue Ridge Mountains to find this bird. Don't confuse it with its cousin the crow, which can be found in many places around the state. The crow is much smaller and has a call that is a "caw." Its tail is also different, being rounded or square, not long and wedge-shaped as the raven's is.
Ravens demonstrate their intelligence in other aspects of their behavior.
* have been known to drop hard-shelled food such as snails or clams on rocks or roads to crack them open
* often work together to find and flush out food
* have pair bonds that can last for years
* will follow predators to get a free meal.
It is no wonder that Baltimore chose the Ravens as the symbol for its football team. Not only are these birds intelligent, acrobatic and organized, they are entertaining as well! As for our poet friend, when he asks if you fear to see a raven this Halloween, you can answer: nevermore! However, if you are interested in meeting a crow, venture out to the Night of the Living Museum on Oct. 21 or 22, you may just get your chance.
Susan Summers is an education associate at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News. Nature Notes is a bi-weekly column. You can access the museum's Web site at www.valivingmuseum.org. *