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Chihuahuan Raven

Silhouette RavensRavens
Chihuahuan RavenCorvus cryptoleucus
  • ORDER: Passeriformes
  • FAMILY: Corvidae

Basic Description

An all-black bird of hot, dry open country, the Chihuahuan Raven is partway between an American Crow and a Common Raven in size. It’s better than either of those two species at surviving in grasslands and deserts of the southwest U.S. and northern Mexico. Like other corvids (members of the crow family), Chihuahuan Ravens are intelligent and social, often traveling and roosting in flocks. Once known as the “White-necked Raven,” this species does have white-based neck feathers, but this feature is very rarely seen in the field.

More ID Info
image of range map for Chihuahuan Raven
Year-roundBreedingMigrationNonbreeding
Range map provided by Birds of the World
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Find This Bird

Chihuahuan Ravens are fairly common in their desert habitat, but thinly distributed. Look for them around cliffs, near ranch operations, and at landfills. In dry open country, make a point to scan tall perches such as utility poles to find a perched bird or a nest.

Other Names

  • Cuervo Llanero (Spanish)
  • Corbeau à cou blanc (French)
  • Cool Facts