On at least my last three trips up to Bear River MBR, I have found a Common Raven pair in the same general area of the north side of the auto tour route.

Common Raven on a 25 mph speed limit sign, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahCommon Raven on a 25 mph speed limit sign – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1000, ISO 640, +1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

The pair of Common Ravens are beginning to feel like ‘friends’ to me, or like feathered greeters welcoming me to the autumn marsh. I love seeing this pair of ravens. I was happy to take photos of one of the ravens perched on a 25 mph speed limit sign.

Yes, the sign shows the hand of humans and for some photographers that is undesirable. I am not “some” photographers though as I am sure most of you already know.

I take photos of my avian subjects where I find them. The birds always decide where they want to be. Sometimes, that is on something human-made.

Common Raven on the auto tour route road, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahCommon Raven on the auto tour route road, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge – Nikon D500, f8, 1/500, ISO 640, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

The mate of the Common Raven on the sign was close by, as they usually are. The raven was on the dirt road of the auto tour loop and appeared to be enjoying the warmth of the morning light.

The sun felt good to me too after seeing a low of 24°F.

Typically, I don’t think of Common Ravens as marsh inhabitants, but this pair seems to like this area. I’m glad that they do because their preference has given me several opportunities to have them in my viewfinder.

Maybe the next time I see this raven pair they will allow me to approach a tiny bit closer. I would love that.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Common Raven photos plus facts and information about this species.