Australian Raven: Corvus coronoides

The Australian Raven, Corvus coronoides, is a large native corvid often casually called a crow. “Raven” is the primary common name for this species, and range and call are more reliable than size alone when separating Australian ravens and crows. [1] [2]

WildGuardian’s LOW label reflects that this is not a venomous animal or a routine medical hazard. It remains wild wildlife: do not feed, handle or crowd it. Observe quietly and keep food secure, especially in parks, picnic areas and campgrounds where ravens may learn to approach people.

How to recognise an Australian Raven

Adults are entirely black with white eyes. They have long throat hackles that they extend during a slow, drawn-out territorial call, often holding the head and body horizontally as they call. [1] Juveniles have dark eyes, shorter hackles and often show a pink fleshy gape. [1]

The white eye is striking, but it should not be used alone. Australia has several black corvids, and their calls and geographic ranges overlap in places. BirdLife Australia and the Australian Museum both identify the distinctive, prolonged raven call as a useful feature. [1] [2] Watch from a distance rather than trying to call a bird closer or photograph it at a nest.

Range and habitat

Australian Ravens occur across eastern, southern and central Australia. BirdLife Australia describes them as using most habitat types except the more arid parts of Western Australia and the wet tropics of Queensland. [1] The species can occur in woodland, farmland, parks, suburbs and other built-up areas. [1] [2]

They are social birds, often seen in pairs, and may be conspicuous where open ground, trees and food opportunities meet. Their ability to use human-modified places does not mean they need human food. Feeding wildlife can encourage birds to approach people, concentrate around food and lose normal caution.

Diet and breeding ecology

Australian Ravens have a broad omnivorous-to-carnivorous diet that can include insects, small animals, eggs, carrion, refuse, fruit and grains. [1] [2] That flexible diet is why they may forage on lawns, roadsides, farms, beaches and city edges.

Both sexes build a large, untidy stick nest lined with softer material and both feed the young. The female incubates, with one brood normally raised each year. [1] During nesting, keep well away from a nest or young bird and do not attempt to return a fledgling to a tree unless directed by a licensed wildlife carer or local authority.

Safe encounters

Give ravens room and avoid feeding them from hands, tables or vehicles. A bird that is bold around a bin or picnic is usually seeking food, not asking to be handled. Keep pets under control and avoid sudden movement near a nest.

If an Australian Raven appears injured, entangled or unable to fly, contact the relevant state wildlife rescue organisation or local council rather than picking it up. This guide does not provide bird-handling instructions because the right response depends on the animal’s condition and local wildlife rules.

A bite or scratch that breaks the skin should be treated as a health issue. Healthdirect advises washing the wound with soap and running water, drying it and covering it with a clean dressing; medical assessment is advised as soon as possible for an animal bite that breaks skin. [3] Seek urgent care for a large or deep wound, a bite to the face or head, or bleeding that will not stop. [3]

Frequently asked questions

Is an Australian Raven the same as a crow?

People often use “crow” informally, but Australian Raven is the primary common name for Corvus coronoides. Calls and range help distinguish it from other Australian corvids. [1] [2]

Why do Australian Ravens have white eyes?

Adult Australian Ravens have white irises. Young birds have dark eyes, so eye colour is also an age clue. [1]

Are Australian Ravens dangerous?

They are not venomous. The respectful approach is still to keep your distance and not feed or handle wild birds.

What should I do if one bites or scratches me?

Wash broken skin with soap and running water, cover the wound and seek medical advice, particularly for a deep wound or worsening symptoms. [3]

References

1. [1] Australian Raven — BirdLife Australia
2. [2] Australian Raven — Australian Museum
3. [3] Animal and human bites — Healthdirect Australia