The fan-tailed raven is a passerine bird of the crow family native to Eastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
Region
Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Occurs across arid and semi-arid landscapes of Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Sudan, and the Arabian Peninsula including Yemen, Oman, and Saudi Arabia. It favors rocky deserts, wadis, cliffs, and escarpments, and readily uses coastal plains and dry foothills. The species often exploits human-altered areas such as towns, rubbish tips, and roadsides, where food is predictable. Nesting typically takes place on cliff ledges, in crevices, or occasionally on buildings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small raven of deserts and escarpments, the fan-tailed raven is easily recognized by its very short, rounded tail that spreads like a fan in flight. It often soars on thermals and is notably acrobatic, performing tight turns and rolls. Highly opportunistic, it frequently forages around human settlements and roads in arid regions.
Showing the broad wings and fan-shaped tail
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier and soaring glider, often performing agile aerial maneuvers
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes gathering at rich food sources. Monogamous pairs nest on cliffs or buildings, constructing stick nests lined with softer materials like hair or wool. Both sexes participate in nest building and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are a series of harsh croaks and gruff rattles, higher-pitched and more nasal than those of larger ravens. It also gives buzzes and clucks during social interactions and aerial displays.
