4 RAVEN

Raven has greatly broadened its range in recent years; formerly associated with uplands in the north and west of the country, they are heading eastwards at some rate. This is great news, as these are wonderful birds. Giants among passerines, these Buzzard-sized crows are masters of the air and even at this time of year will perform their show-off, flying-upside-down display flight to impress their partner. Listen for the distinctive ‘cronk cronk’ calls and look for a big crow with a big bill and head (and well feathered throat), with long, relatively narrow, stiff wings and a long, wedge-shaped tail.