File:Two cape ravens standing on rock - DPLA - aecb41630b606bd36b06c6a370d1aa6b.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Passeriformes; Family: Corvidae; Genus: Corvus; Genus species: Corvus albicollis. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 52 cm; Height: 45 cm; Identification: The cape raven has black facial feathers with a faint purple gloss on its head. It also has a white patch on its hind neck, deep black body feathers, and a black bill with a white or yellow tip; Habitat: Open mountainous country, urban areas; Diet: Omnivore: insects, tortoises, lizards, small mammals, carrion, bird eggs, corn, peanuts, fruit; Reproduction: Nests are usually found on ledges or cliffs. Females lay 3-5 eggs each season; Social Structure: Cape ravens are usually found in pairs but may form large flocks for feeding; Behavior: The cape raven indulges in aerial play, much as in other raven species. Due to their close proximity to man they often become tame. A scavenger, they often arrive at a carcass before vultures do; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: The cape raven has a heavy, well-developed bill. They are virtually absent from the coast but occur in the immediate hinterland at around 1500 feet.