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To the Beauty of Birds

The White-naped Raven or White-necked Raven (Corvus albicollis) is somewhat smaller (50–54 cm in length) than the common raven or indeed its nearest relative, the Thick-billed Raven

The White-naped Raven has a much shorter tail than the common raven, as well as a deeper bill with a white tip that is almost as strongly arched as that of the thick-billed raven. Though predominantly black, the throat, breast and neck show a faint purple gloss. There is a large patch of white feathers on the back of the lower neck.

Often described as a raven with a sore throat, it has very similar calls to the common raven, but with a more husky note. It has a croak like the raven but with a more whispering note added.

It occurs in eastern and southern Africa in open, mountainous country. It is quite commonly found in small towns and villages as long as there are mountains or hills for roosting and nesting relatively nearby.

Most of this bird's food is obtained from the ground, but it will take food from trees as well. White-necked ravens will also readily take carrion from road kills. Fruit, grain, insects, small reptiles, peanuts and human food are also readily taken and the bird forages in back yards and gardens quite openly.

It is often found in the company of other scavengers such as kites or vultures.

These were photographed in Tanzania

White-naped Raven

Raven White-napped 8396

Raven White-napped 8400

Raven White-napped 8393