Forest Raven

The forest raven, or Corvus tasmanicus, is the largest of the Australian corvids, with a commanding presence marked by its all-black plumage, beak, and legs. The adult bird's glossy feathers, which may reflect a blue or green sheen in sunlight, measure between 50-53 cm in length, with a wingspan stretching from 91 to 113 cm. This robust bird weighs in at approximately 650 grams.

Identification Tips

Distinguishing the forest raven from other corvids can be challenging, but keen observers will note the grey bases of its feathers—a trait not shared with the white-based feathers of Australian crows. The forest raven's bill is notably massive and heavy-set, and its eyes are a striking white in adults, transitioning from dark brown in juveniles to hazel with an inner blue rim as they mature.

Habitat

In Tasmania, the forest raven thrives across a diverse array of environments, from woodlands to urban fringes. On the Australian mainland, however, it prefers the seclusion of closed forests, including both wet and dry sclerophyll forests and temperate rainforests.

Distribution

The forest raven is native to Tasmania and has established populations in southern Victoria and parts of New South Wales. It is the most widely distributed bird species in Tasmania and has been observed on offshore islands in Bass Strait.

Behaviour

The forest raven is a sedentary bird, with pairs bonding for life and establishing permanent territories. These territories are defended vigorously against intruders, with the ravens engaging in aerial chases and mobbing tactics against larger birds of prey.

Song & Calls

The forest raven's call is a deep, resonant "korr-korr-korr-korr," similar to the Australian raven but with a distinctive huskiness. Juveniles emit higher-pitched calls, and mated pairs have a unique greeting call characterized by a long, descending note.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in spring and summer, with the season starting later in Tasmania than on the mainland. The nest is a bowl-shaped structure of sticks, often high in a tree. Clutches typically consist of four to five eggs, which are incubated solely by the female.

Diet and Feeding

An opportunistic omnivore, the forest raven's diet includes insects, carrion, fruit, grain, and earthworms. It is known to scavenge extensively, particularly on roadkill, and has adapted to exploit human food waste in urban areas.

Conservation status

The forest raven is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN, with a stable and abundant population. However, some localized decreases have been noted, particularly in northern New South Wales, where the population is considered "near threatened."

Relationship with Humans

In Tasmania, the forest raven has a contentious relationship with humans, often being perceived as a threat to livestock and crops. Despite this, the bird plays a beneficial role in the ecosystem by consuming insect pests and cleaning up carrion.