The Chihuahuan raven is a species in the family Corvidae. These birds are just slightly larger than the American crow. They hail from Mexico and the United States. Chihuahuan ravens face the threats of being trapped, poisoned, and shot due to their consumption of agricultural crops; electrocution from utility poles; accidental poisoning from agricultural chemicals; habitat loss and destruction at the hands of residential and commercial developments, as well as from farming and ranching; and climate change, that causes rising temperatures, drought, fire weather, and spring heatwaves. The IUCN lists these birds as Least Concern, for now, as their numbers are indicative of that classification. Their populations are decreasing though. This article is dedicated to my friend, Shawn.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Corvus cryptoleucus
Weight: Up to 1.4 lbs.
Length: Up to 20 inches
Wingspan: Up to 43.31 inches
Lifespan: Up to 15 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) Cultivated cereal grains, insects, other various invertebrates, small reptiles, cactus fruits, eggs, nestlings, and carrion (dead animals) are all happily feasted upon.
2.) Golden eagles, great horned owls, and peregrine falcons prey on adults, while snakes, hawks, and raccoons prey on chicks and eggs.
3.) Besides the common “pruk-pruk” sound, they produce higher pitched croaks, and they are also capable of vocal mimicry. However, this has only been observed in captivity.
4.) They were first described by the German-American physician and naturalist Augustus F. Couch in 1854.
5.) These birds are diurnal (active during the day).
But wait, there’s more on the Chihuahuan raven!
6.) Nests are constructed in trees, large shrubs, and even in old buildings.
7.) Females lay up to 7 eggs that hatch in up to 22 days.
Did you know…?
There are an estimated 560,000 wild specimens, to date. But, as mentioned, that number is decreasing.
8.) Chicks fledge in up to 40 days.
9.) The nasal bristles extend further down the top of their bill than in any other Corvus species to roughly 2/3rds the length.
10.) Their plumage is all-black. However, in certain lighting, their feathers take on a rich purple-blue gloss.
Now a Short Chihuahuan Raven Video!
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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN
Photo credit: khyri
