The
name given to large black birds, who look similar to crows but are larger and more solitary. Corvus Corax. Often associated with healing,
magic, successful hunting,
death, and mischief. Considered to be messengers between the living and the other world. Honored by almost all human societies. Ravens are considered among the most intelligent of all birds; they can learn to imitate a variety of sounds, including the human voice. Ravens are scavengers and
will eat just about anything that is dead; but they
will also hunt for mice, lizards,
small birds, snakes, insects, and berries.
They are mentioned in many mythologies, both in North America and in Europe. Among the Native Americans, Raven is a creator and trickster god. In Norse mythology, Odin’s two Ravens Thought and Memory are divine spies so to speak. They are mentioned in many poems and novels, perhaps the most famous is Edgar
Allan Poe’s Nevermore.
Ravens are amazingly beautiful and graceful flyers, maneuvering effortlessly in the sky, whirling and twirling and gliding through the
air, riding updrafts with ease.
"Though the
birds have a
wide variety of sounds and calls they may not be willing to divulge their secrets to us." Quote the raven? Aaarrck!
Nevermore!