South Arlington birders were thrilled last year when Common Ravens, which had been haunting the Long Branch Nature Center area, built a nest on a Route 50 abutment where the roadway crosses the W&OD Trail. So, they were doubly pleased when the Ravens returned this year to the same nest.

This spring Arlington residents who have not spent enough time further away to observe the breeding and nesting cycle of the Common Raven had a rare treat.

This winter I visited England for a month. The most memorable avian species in my opinion – and most symbolic to the country and its culture – was the Common Raven (Corvus corax).