SPC·03
White-necked Raven
Corvus albicollis
Eastern and Southern Africa
LC Least Concern (LC) · BirdLife International 2020
The White-necked Raven (Corvus albicollis) is a large African raven — 50–54 cm long — found on cliffs and escarpments from Ethiopia to South Africa. Its white crescent across the nape and the tip of its heavy arched bill distinguish it from every other African corvid.
Quick Facts
- Length
- 50–54 cm
- Wingspan
- 100–120 (estimated) cm
- Weight
- 894–1,010 g
- IUCN Status
- Least Concern (LC)
- Range
- Eastern and southern Africa from Ethiopia and Kenya south to South Africa; strongly associated with mountains and cliff country.
- Habitat
- Cliff faces, escarpments, mountains, adjacent open grassland; also increasingly around towns.
- Diet
- Omnivore: carrion, invertebrates, berries, grain, refuse.
- Voice
- Harsh, hoarse croaking; described as deeper and rougher than the Common Raven.
Field Marks — How to Identify White-necked Raven
- Bold white crescent across the nape and upper breast — unmistakable at close range.
- Very heavy, arched bill with a white tip.
- All-black body except the white nape; white visible in flight.
- Stockier build than Common Raven with shorter tail.
Behaviour
Pairs and small groups associate with cliff habitats for nesting; often seen soaring on thermals above escarpments. Increasingly uses towns and refuse as food source in East Africa.
Conservation Status
Least Concern. Widespread and locally common across its African range; no major declines reported.
Similar Species
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you identify a White-necked Raven?
Look for the bold white crescent on the nape and upper back, plus the white tip on the heavy curved bill. No other large black bird in Africa has this combination.
Where does the White-necked Raven live?
Eastern and southern Africa: from Ethiopia and Kenya through Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Mozambique to South Africa. It strongly favours mountains and cliff country.
Sources
- BirdLife International (2020). Corvus albicollis. IUCN Red List 2020. — IUCN status, range
- Madge, S. & Burn, H. (1994). Crows and Jays. Christopher Helm, London. — size, field marks, behaviour