Raven, Yellowstone National Park

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

All three photos posted this morning were taken in the United States in September 2012. Thought I would dig into my archives and find three photos to remind me of what a great country the US is and what treasures it holds. Not that I ever forget that. Wanted to wish all Americans everywhere, at home or living in other countries around the world, a wonderful Thanksgiving. Special thoughts to those who are serving their country, and their families, especially those who will not be able to spend this special day together.

Common Ravens look black, but when seen up close, which doesn't usually happen, you can see the variety of colours in those beautiful feathers. This was a slightly scruffy Raven that was hanging around one of the parking lots along the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River (North Rim?), no doubt hoping to find some easy food. Taken on 14 September 2012, during my week's holiday with dear friends from England, down as far as Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons.

"Common Ravens will eat almost anything they can get hold of. They eat carrion; small animals from the size of mice and baby tortoises up to adult Rock Pigeons and nestling Great Blue Herons; eggs; grasshoppers, beetles, scorpions, and other arthropods; fish; wolf and sled-dog dung; grains, buds, and berries; pet food; and many types of human food including unattended picnic items and garbage."

www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/common_raven/lifehistory

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Raven