Originally published: New York: Summit Books, 1989.

Describes a 1988 three-year scientific project which studied the behavior of the common raven in western Maine, discussing the discoveries about ravens that resulted from the research as well as the personal experiences of the scientists involved.

The Raven presents a summary of knowledge of its natural history, describing its distribution, feeding habits, association with other animals, and breeding. The Raven is one of the most spectacular and romantic of British birds, but relatively neglected in the modern literature of ornithology. Derek Ratcliffe here presents a thorough summary of our knowledge of its natural history, emphasizing the long association of the bird with humankind. The place of the Raven in myth, legend and history is long established, and this book describes the bird's fall from grace as a valued scavenger in medieval cities to a persecuted outcast in the modern wilds. The previous wide occurrence of Ravens is reviewed against the relationships between their present distribution, status and habitat requirements, as both a nesting and a non-breeding resident. The dependence of Ravens on carrion (especially sheep) within an omnivorous diet is the key to the species' ecology, and its social behaviour has evolved in close relation to this lifestyle. The flocking and communal roosting of non-breeders are major features of Raven behaviour, while their nesting habits emphasise the territorial nature of breeding birds and their adaptation to secure but harsh environments. Raven numbers vary in relation to their food supply, local populations adjusting accordingly, although the precise mechanism involved is still obscure. Ravens have a considerable capacity for recolonising old haunts when suitable conditions are restored, as well as exploiting new areas where the habitat becomes favourable, and there are local success stories to tell. Nationwide, however, the species' position is delicately balanced and depends on both sympathetic land management practices and improving attitudes to Ravens as friends not foe. Worldwide, Ravens are one of the most successful of all bird groups, occurring over a large part of the northern hemisphere, and replaced in some southern and tropical regions by other raven species which exploit the familiar raven niche in their own environments. The discussion of the northern hemisphere species is enlivened by reference to other species where useful. Finally, the Raven's age-old reputation for high intelligence is weighed critically against the available evidence. Today, Ravens carry a new omen in the modern world, as a barometer of goodwill to wildlife. Like those in the Tower of London, the continued existence of Ravens in our wild countryside will reveal something about both our current situation and our prospects for the future. The text is brought to life through wonderful illustrations by Chris Rose.

Have you ever heard of the transmigration of souls? Or perhaps you have felt a strong connection to a person you just met? As though they were an old friend? Do you know what a kindred soul is? Have you ever encountered mystical events in your life that left you puzzled? If so, this book could be of interest to you.

Hunter-gatherer societies are constrained by their environment and the technologies available to them. However, until now the role of culture in foraging communities has not been widely considered. 'Structured Worlds' examines the role of cosmology, values, and perceptions in the archaeological histories of hunter-fisher-gatherers. The essays examine a range of cultures - Mesolithic Europe, Siberia, Jomon Japan, the Northwest Coast, the northern Plains, and High Arctic of North America - to show the role of conceptual frameworks in subsistence and settlement, technology, mobility, migration, demography, and social organization. Spanning from the early Holocene period to the present day, 'Structured Worlds' draws on archaeology and ethnography to explore the role of beliefs, ritual, and social values in the interaction between foragers and their physical and social landscape. Material culture, animal bones and settlement patterns show that the behaviours of hunter-gatherers were shaped as much by cultural concepts as by material need.

Zak was a normal raven until a vacation to Prince William Sound changed his life forever. Caught in the aftermath of the greatest oil spill in Alaska's history, Zak's inner light was nearly smothered as he faced the enormity of the disaster. Unable to reconcile the overwhelming emotions wrought by witnessing the devastation on millions of birds, animals and people, Zak ceased to do little more than exist until meeting the white raven from the heart of Denali. Paired beautifully with the commanding splendor of Alaska and its people, Raven's Light is the tale of Zak's struggle. Set amongst the beauty and people of Alaska's Matanuska Valley, Raven's Light is an intimate glimpse at the journey within that leads to the ultimate serenity of inner peace.

Paper describing the comon raven (three subspecies: Corvus corax principalis, Corvus corax sinuatus, and Corvus corax clarionensis), its life history, habitat requirements, relationships with other raptors, other wildlife and man, its beneficial and adverse influences, and place in myth and Indian lore.