Common Ravens (Corvus corax) are large, intelligent birds found across the Northern Hemisphere. Known for their problem-solving and adaptability, they thrive in various environments. While widespread, their presence in Illinois is less common.
Raven Presence Across Illinois
Common Ravens were historically present in Illinois but were largely extirpated from much of their eastern range before 1900. In recent decades, these birds have been expanding their range, particularly in the northeastern United States, reoccupying areas they once inhabited. While Common Crows are widespread throughout Illinois, ravens are only very rarely recorded.
Observations suggest ravens are making a slow return. A sighting in Lake County has been reported, and a rare sighting occurred within Chicago city limits in Cook County, possibly the first in decades for that area. These occurrences hint at gradual re-establishment, influenced by forest regeneration in eastern North America and their opportunistic nature.
Ravens prefer wild, secluded habitats, including forests, mountains, and rugged terrain. While they adapt to areas near human habitation, American Crows often replace them in larger towns. Increased sightings in nearby states like Wisconsin and Michigan also suggest potential expansion into Illinois.
Distinguishing Ravens From Crows
Common Ravens (Corvus corax) are often confused with American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), but several features differentiate them. Ravens are noticeably larger, typically measuring 21 to 27 inches long with a wingspan up to 46 inches. American Crows are smaller, around 17 to 21 inches long with a wingspan of about 36 inches.
A raven’s beak is larger, heavier, and more curved than a crow’s, often appearing shaggy with longer bristles at its base. Crows have a straighter, more slender beak and smoother throat feathers. In flight, tail shape is a reliable indicator: ravens display a wedge-shaped or diamond-shaped tail due to longer middle feathers. Crows have a fan-shaped or squared tail with uniform length feathers.
Flight patterns also vary. Ravens frequently soar and glide on air currents with minimal wing flapping, often performing acrobatic maneuvers. Crows tend to flap their wings more continuously and rarely soar for extended periods. Their vocalizations are distinct: ravens produce a deep, guttural croak, sometimes described as a “gronk-gronk” or “wonk-wonk” sound. Crows are known for their characteristic, sharper “caw” sound.
Behavioral differences further aid identification. Ravens are typically observed alone or in pairs, exhibiting a less gregarious nature. Crows are more social, often forming larger groups known as “murders” and congregating in communal roosts. On the ground, ravens may hop, whereas crows predominantly walk.