The common raven, Corvus corax, is jet black and looks like a large, bulky crow. Ravens are members of the Corvid family, whose other members include magpies, crows and all the jays. This family, a gregarious, fearless bunch, is also known among wildlife biologists for its intelligence. Readers who have tried to outwit jays at home birdfeeders know exactly what I mean.

Ravens, the largest members of the Corvid family, are found in habitats from deserts to mountains, though they avoid areas of human population density. And while they are highly intelligent (some researchers rate their intelligence on par with that of dolphins), they have a few quirks. Ultimate feeding opportunists, ravens are scavengers. They raid garbage cans and most other unattended food sources, and, during winter in northern climates such as Yellowstone National park, they rely heavily on carrion for food.