Raven (Corvus corax), a species of Crow (q.v.), now somewhat rare in Britain except in remote regions or on rocky islands. It is, however, widely distributed in Europe, northern Asia, and North
America. The plumage is glossy black, with a purplish-blue lustre on some parts. The bill and legs are also black. In length the raven measures about two feet. The males are rather larger and more lustrous than the females. Very early in the year the bulky nest is built on a cliff or tree; the three to five eggs are bluish-green, with brownish spots. The raven's note tends to be harsh, but is refined at the pairing season, and the bird may be trained to parrot-like imitation with remarkable success. The flight is powerful, and the bird often soars high. On small mammals, such as rats, the raven is fond of feeding, and its attacks on game and even lambs have led to its extermination in many districts. In Scandinavia the raven was sacred to Odin, but in many countries it is a bird of ill omen. Instances are on record of ravens which lived for four-score years, and there is no doubt that its natural longevity is great. Three varieties or sub-species of the raven are recognised in North America. See CROW; and R. W. Schufeldt, The Myology of the Raven (1890).