The Raven

The Raven is published twice a year by the VSO to provide an outlet for original articles reporting research on Virginia’s birds and significant sightings of birds in the state. The Raven also publishes the results of studies by VSO members such as the annual breeding bird forays and Christmas Bird Counts, as well as reports of the state bird records committee (VARCOM), book reviews, and other items.

The Raven was first published in 1930, the year after the VSO was founded. It was edited by Dr. J. J. Murray of Lexington, Virginia from its origins until the June 1969 issue. Through 1961 it was a mimeographed bulletin appearing monthly or every other month. In 1962 it became a quarterly publication and appeared in a new, more compact format, similar to its appearance today. From the beginning The Raven included reports on significant observations of birds in Virginia, and early issues also included news items and announcements of the kind that would now be found in the VSO Newsletter.

All VSO members receive a subscription to The Raven as one of the benefits of society membership. Information for contributors is provided on the inside of the back cover of each issue and can also be obtained from the current editor or online.

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