The answer is: Raven

Gen 8:7 - Perhaps the raven was unwillingly to fly far from the ark, and Noah sent out the dove instead.

When Noah found himself sheltered within the confines of the ark after the epic flood swept away a wicked world, one might say that his feathered companions had the most interesting post-diluvian duties. The raven, being the first bird sent out, plays a significant role here. Imagine this: with an abundance of food likely floating around and carcasses providing ample snacks, the raven didn’t need much motivation to feed itself! It was a scavenger, after all, known for its resourcefulness and intelligence.

Unlike the dove, which symbolizes peace and God's promise to humanity as she returned with an olive branch, the raven seems to part ways without the same yearning for community. Some say this reflects an interesting metaphor about the differing responsibilities of life—sometimes we find the more promising paths only after exploring the less charming ones.

This crow-like water-bird might even echo Elijah’s later encounter with God. Ravens are mentioned again in Scripture, where they're depicted as providers for the prophet, marking a divine moment where the ordinary things in nature—even the seemingly unclean—become vessels of sustenance.

It’s little moments like these, played out through characteristically quirky birds, that stir a deeper appreciation of their Biblical narratives. Who knew that a simple raven could remind us of both survival and divinely appointed care? This charming avian tale invites many interpretations that lead us back to the core themes of hope and rebirth.