64 CORVID.E. 



This is by far the largest specimen of the genus among 

 British Birds, the character and size of the Raven causing it 

 to be exceedingly well known, while from the great extent of 

 its geographical range, north of the equator, it is also as uni- 

 versally recognised in many other parts of the world as it is in 

 this country. Bold, as well as sagacious, with a quick eye, 

 and a keen sense of smell, the Raven is always an object of 

 suspicion to shepherds and husbandmen. No sooner does an 

 animal betray any signs of weakness, but the Raven is there 

 on the watch for an opportunity to satisfy his appetite. At 

 first he makes his approach with great caution ; because, as it 

 has been aptly observed, though glad to find others carrion, 

 or to make carrion of them, if he can do it with impunity, he 

 takes good care that none shall make carrion of him. If the 

 herdsman absents himself, and no other interruption occurs, 

 he makes his first attack upon the eye, afterward feeds at his 

 leisure, retires to a small distance to digest his meal, and then 

 returns to feed again. 



The Raven inhabits high rocks on the sea coast, extensive 

 woods, mountains, or open plains, where danger may be seen 

 and avoided. Like the other birds of this genus, the Raven 

 is not particular in his food ; but eats indiscriminately small 

 mammalia, birds, or their eggs, reptiles, insects, grain, or 

 carrion ; on the sea coast the shore is closely searched for 

 dead fish of any sort, or other animal substance washed up by 

 the tide. 



These birds breed very early in the season. By the be- 

 ginning of February they may be seen visiting and repairing 

 their nest of the previous year. This is usually placed in a very 

 high tree, where the difficulty of the ascent, in some instances, 

 and a superstitious fear " of the Bird of Odin" in others, con- 

 tribute to allow them to occupy the same spot for many years 

 in succession. Raven trees, as they are called, exist in many 

 different places ; and these birds not only live to a great age, 



