Their plumage is entirely black, with green and purple iridescence. The raven is often confused with its close relative, the crow, but there are major differences between the two species that are especially apparent when crows and ravens are seen together. Ravens eat rodents, insects, grain, fruit, bird eggs and refuse. They consume much carrion, especially in winter. In northern Pennsylvania, they are often seen along Interstate 80, where they feed on road-killed deer, raccoons, opossums, etc.
Ravens also prey upon sick and injured animals.
A raven is every bit as alert as a crow and possesses sharp eyesight and hearing. After mating, a pair will seek out an isolated nesting spot, usually at least a mile away from any other ravens. Nests are built on cliffs or near the tops of large trees. Ravens often build a new nest on top of last year's nest. Nests are constructed of large sticks, twigs and grapevines.