Country Mouse Studio: Ravens The Problem with Image

Saturday, October 1, 2016

Ravens The Problem with Image

I grew up in the north about 600 miles south of the treeline. It was inhabited by many ravens. We didn't see them too often in the summer but as the cold weather arrived, they were more willing to come near people.

The colder the weather, the more of them you saw. Usually they sat on wires above your head all fluffed up and chilly looking.

Occasionally, the cold would break and for a week or so warm weather would come. Just like children let out at recess, these huge birds would react by flying loops, diving and generally acting silly and calling to each other. Research says they are one of the most intelligent and the most playful of birds and to see them in action put a smile on your face. They have been observed playing tag with dogs and wolves and even making toys from sticks etc. I've seen videos of them undoing zippers on backpacks, garbage bags and opening containers.

In the spring, they perform the most beautiful aerial courtship dances. I spent many hours watching in fascination. It was even possible to see them fly upside down in their efforts to impress. I don't know if it got them a mate but it sure impressed me.

Unfortunately, they have a bad image but maybe that's been their salvation because with their intelligence if they were beautiful seed eaters they would have been captured then sold as pets.

So I draw them because I love them and have fond memories