Ravens are found in many countries around the globe. They are well-known for their intelligence and complex social dynamics, as they seem capable of learning innovative solutions to newly encountered problems.
Famous Austrian zoologist Konrad Lorenz credited the Raven as having the “highest mental development” of any species in the bird world. Hunters often notice these birds arriving after hearing a gunshot, to search for leftovers of the kill.
The Raven plays a prominent role in the spiritual and social culture of the native population. Many First Nations along the Canadian west coastviewed the Raven as the creator of the world and bringer of daylight.
Several years ago, I learned that a White Raven had been sighted on Vancouver Island, and I was lucky enough to take some pictures on a rainy day. Seeing a White Raven is a very remarkable thing.
The birds pictured are probably not albinos, since they have blue and not pink eyes. Some experts claim that the blue-eyed variety is leucistic, meaning the result ofa genetic defect that produces chicks lacking normal pigmentation.
Some First Nations believe that in the beginning all Ravens were white. One legend of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian tells us that one day, after a long period of darkness, mankind will awaken and reconnect with spirituality. When this happens, the Raven will turn white once again.
White Ravens were also considered messenger birds for the Greek god Apollo.
Below is a Juvenile White Raven with its siblings.
Comon Raven are known for spectacular aerobatic displays, such as flying in loops or interlocking talons witch each otherin flight.
Ravens mate for life. Their lifespan can be over 30-years and probably more.
Joachim Ruhstein
Joachim Ruhstein has created a considerable collection of wildlife and nature photographs as well as several internationally-recognized, award-winning nature films. On his retirement, Mr. Ruhstein moved with his family from Bavaria, Germany to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada, where he could continue his adventures in wildlife photography.
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