Description
Bird Skull, White-necked Raven, Corvus albicollis.
You will receive this exact skull.
The White-necked Raven (Corvus albicollis) is a large, intelligent bird native to the highland and mountainous regions of eastern and southern Africa. Its range includes countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Africa, where it is commonly found in rocky outcrops, cliffs, escarpments, and adjacent open landscapes.
This raven is notable for its glossy black plumage and the distinctive white patch of feathers on the nape of its neck, which gives it its name. It also has a thick, powerful, and slightly curved bill with a pale tip, adapted for cracking tough food items. Adults measure about 50–54 cm (20–21 inches) in length, with strong wings and a wedge-shaped tail.
The White-necked Raven is omnivorous and opportunistic, feeding on a wide range of items including insects, small vertebrates, fruits, seeds, carrion, and human food waste. It is known for its clever behavior, such as dropping hard-shelled prey from heights to crack them open or scavenging near human settlements.
These ravens are usually seen in pairs or small groups and are known for their complex vocalizations, which include croaks, caws, and whistles. Their intelligence and adaptability make them a successful species across varied African landscapes. They are currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
