The thick-billed raven, a corvid from the Horn of Africa, shares with the common raven the distinction of being the largest bird in the corvid family. The thick-billed raven averages 64 cm (25 in) in length, with a range of 60 to 70 cm and weighs approximately 1.15 kg (2.5 lb) in females and 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) in males on average. Its size is about the same as the largest subspecies of common raven but some common raven subspecies are rather smaller and, going on average weights, the thick-billed raven is likely the heaviest extant passerine. The thick-billed raven is about 25% heavier on average than the Australasian superb lyrebird, which is sometimes erroneously titled the largest passerine.
Region
Horn of Africa
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Ethiopian and Eritrean highlands, it occupies open montane landscapes, escarpments, cliffs, and afro-alpine moorlands. It also frequents agricultural mosaics, villages, and urban edges where food is plentiful. Nests are usually placed on cliffs or tall trees overlooking rugged valleys. The species is locally common in suitable highland habitats and often seen soaring over canyons and plateaus.
Altitude Range
1800–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The thick-billed raven is the heaviest extant passerine, rivaling the largest common ravens in length but surpassing them in average mass. Its enormous, laterally compressed bill is adapted to ripping tough hides and accessing marrow. Highly intelligent like other corvids, it readily exploits human-modified landscapes in the Ethiopian Highlands. It is largely resident and conspicuous around highland towns, markets, and cliff country.
With food, in Ethiopia
Temperament
bold and inquisitive, often confident around people
Flight Pattern
strong flier with deep wingbeats and frequent soaring on thermals
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups; forms loose foraging parties where food is concentrated. Monogamous pairs build large stick nests on cliffs or tall trees and defend territories during breeding. Outside breeding, can gather at carcasses, markets, or refuse sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Deep, harsh croaks and guttural grunts typical of ravens, interspersed with clicking and knocking notes. Calls carry well over valleys and are used in pair contact and territorial displays.
