Say hello to Dean, our brilliant common raven (Corvus corax)! Known for their extraordinary intelligence, ravens are among the smartest birds in the world. They can solve puzzles, use tools, recognize faces, and even mimic human speech. If you’re lucky, you might hear Dean say, “Hi, Dean,” “Hello,” or even “How you doing?”

A Bird of Many Talents

Ravens are not only clever but also incredibly vocal, with a repertoire of 15–33 distinct calls used for communication. In the wild, these birds can imitate other animals, human speech, and even mechanical sounds. Their intelligence is key to their survival, as it helps them find food, avoid predators, and even outsmart other animals. Ravens have been observed working together to steal food, using distraction techniques, and even hiding food for later to ensure they always have something to eat (called caching). Their problem-solving skills allow them to thrive in a wide range of environments, from dense forests to sprawling deserts.

Raven vs. Crow: How to Tell the Difference

Ravens and crows are both members of the corvid family, but there are several key differences between the two:

• Size: Ravens are much larger than crows, about the size of a red-tailed hawk, whereas crows are about the size of a pigeon.
• Tail Shape: When in flight, a raven’s tail is wedge-shaped, while a crow’s tail is fan-shaped.
• Beak: Ravens have a thicker, more curved beak compared to a crow’s straighter, slimmer beak.
• Vocalizations: While both birds are noisy, crows produce a higher-pitched “caw”, while ravens have a deeper, more croaking call.
• Feather Texture: Ravens have shaggier throat feathers, while crows have sleeker, more uniform plumage.

Nature’s Cleanup Crew: Scavengers in the Wild

Common ravens play an essential role as scavengers, helping to clean up the environment by consuming dead animals (carrion) that might otherwise spread disease. They will often follow predators like wolves or eagles and wait for an opportunity to feed on the remains of their kills. Their powerful beaks allow them to tear into tough hides, making them one of nature’s most effective recyclers. In urban settings, ravens have adapted to foraging in garbage dumps and even stealing food from unsuspecting animals or humans.

At the zoo, Dean enjoys a well-balanced diet of bird chow, fresh fruits and vegetables, and proteins like mice and fish to mimic the diverse diet he would have in the wild.

Life in the Forgotten Forest

Dean can be found in The Forgotten Forest, located near the Bald Eagles. Despite a lifelong foot condition, which prevents him from being released into the wild, Dean is full of energy and curiosity. His keepers describe him as inquisitive and interactive, always eager to explore his habitat and engage with guests.

Non-Releasable Animals: Giving Them a Second Chance

Not all wild animals can be returned to their natural habitat after they have been rescued. Non-releasable animals are those that have sustained injuries, have permanent disabilities, or were raised in human care and lack the skills needed to survive in the wild. Many of these animals, like Dean, are given a permanent home at zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers, where they can still lead fulfilling lives.

At the zoo, we accommodate their special needs by providing:

• Modified habitats with perches, ramps, or soft surfaces to assist animals with mobility issues.
• Specialized diets tailored to their unique health needs.
• Daily enrichment to keep them mentally and physically engaged.
• Veterinary care to ensure their long-term health and comfort.

While these animals may not be able to return to the wild, they play an important role in educating visitors about conservation and giving people a chance to connect with species they might never encounter up close.