Mated Common Ravens (Corvus corax)
Having stopped to see a view in Yellowstone National Park I was surprised to see these two common ravens (Corvus corax) sitting side by side, preening on a snow bank. I was the only person there and stood back far enough so that (I hope) I wasnât bothering them. It was obvious that this was a mated pair simply because of the way they cared for one another. Later, I saw that my instincts were correct and that this is a mated pair. Common ravens who typically mate for life, have one of the earliest mating rituals in North America and begin their courtship as early as January. Typical courtship behavior is exactly what you see in the photos - sitting alongside each other, preening and making warbling sounds. It was an extraordinary and unexpected moment to witness and I am beyond grateful to have had that opportunity.