Raven photographed at Pezeries [PEZ] on 3/10/2021 Photo: © Wayne Turner (visit site)

The Raven is widely distributed across western Europe. In the north-western part of its range is restricted to the eastern parts of UK, Ireland and northwest France. Since at least the time of Smith's writing, Ravens have been a scarce resident on all the main islands in the Bailiwick.

There are few records in the 1800s and early 1900s but it seems as though it bred irregularly although, in 1906, Marquand writes that in Guernsey it was 'not nearly so rare as commonly supposed.' In 1909 he reports finding 'several' nests and so it is probable that one or two pairs bred on the main islands. Between 1923-38, de Gruchy estimated that two pairs bred in Alderney and 2-3 pairs bred on Sark during this time (Dobson).

Ravens now breed annually in Guernsey, Herm, Sark and Alderney. Up to two pairs breed in Guernsey, one pair in Herm, ?? pairs in Alderney and 1-3 pairs in Sark. The birds in Guernsey and Herm usually breed successfully and flocks of 6-9 birds can be found across the two islands from the end of March. The birds based in Herm often commute to the northern part of Guernsey and birds from the south coast cliffs in Guernsey can be found across the island both in inland and coastal areas. By September, flocks of more than 2 birds are unusual and presumably the young birds have either split up from their parents, died or emigrated from the islands. In winter, birds wander and can be seen almots anywhere across the islands. By January, birds are back on territory and have chicks in the nest in March.

ADD SOME SPECIFIC DETAILS ABOUT BREEDING.