Common Raven with frost on its head and wing tips – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1000, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Earlier this week as I drove slowly around the auto tour route at Bear River MBR I was able to take a short series of Common Raven photos as they played on the ice. The pair of ravens were on the passenger side of my Jeep and I knew that if I turned my vehicle around the ravens would fly away. I opened the passenger window, leaned way over, placed my lens on the window ledge, and photographed the ravens from there.
This adult Common Raven was the closest to me at first so I took portraits of it. I liked that I could still see frost on the head and wing tips of this raven. Like the other birds that stick around in Utah during the winter these ravens are tough.
Winter Common Raven close up – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
When I took this image what stood out the most to my eyes was the great view of the raven’s shaggy throat feathers. The remnants of the raven’s last meal also showed on its big, dark bill.
I am always happy when ravens stick around long enough for me to get photos of them and even more so when I can take portraits of these intelligent, shiny, black birds.
Adult Common Raven on ice in a marsh – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The pair of Common Ravens jumped into the air near each other several times and I truly wish I had been able to get sharp photos of that action. The reason I couldn’t get those photos is that I was stretched as far as I could across the passenger seat and couldn’t lift my heavy lens up and down to catch the action. Despite my uncomfortable position I was delighted that I was able to take these Common Raven photos as they played with each other on the frozen marsh.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Common Raven photos plus facts and information about this species.
“Quoth the Raven…” Hard-earned… but wonderful pics of a smart, beautiful and iconic bird. Thanks Mia.
I love Ravens! They do nest in my area, so I see/hear them occasionally, but there is one who returns every year to the same exact tree along my driveway & vocalizes from the very tip top, I’m looking forward to “humming bird lover’s” stroke of good luck the next time he makes his appearance! Thanks for sharing your shots & story!
What a delight it must have been to watch this pair frolicking on the ice. I can definitely see this species’ intelligence in the eyes of the individual in the second shot.
I adore ravens. Beautiful, intelligent, family minded birds. We have a family which visit throughout the year. He lands first and when he is sure it is safe, gives the message and the rest of the family come down. Which makes us feel honoured.
Brilliant photos of this beauty. Thank you.
Hi sweetie! Great photo’s! Color and close up of The details! Reminded me When we lived in Germany(Frankfurt!) The Germans had a saying About the Ravens! If one comes to you it will bring good luck! Our living room door was open and in came the Raven walking around! I talked to it !Chased it in the dining room and out to the door! Well guess what? I won $500.00 dollars at Bingo that Night!
I love these. One of my favorite is to take photos of raven or crows on ice, something about the ice reflects the tones onto the raven creating nice blue tones.
So nice to see shots of a much under-appreciated bird. And playtime is indeed good for all ages, for humans and wildlife alike so it is always nice when someone takes the time to acknowledge it.