In the United States, it is generally illegal to own a raven as a pet under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This act protects certain bird species, including ravens, by prohibiting the possession, sale, purchase, barter, transport, import, export, and acquisition of their parts, nests, or eggs.
California state law also specifically prohibits the possession of ravens. Under the California Fish and Game Code Section 3503, it is unlawful to take, possess, or destroy any birds in the order Passeriformes (which includes ravens) or any part or nest or egg of those birds. This means that in California, it is illegal to keep a raven as a pet.
However, some people may be able to obtain a special permit to own a raven. These permits are generally only granted for specific purposes such as rehabilitation, education, or scientific research.
Learn more: