Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Six ravens (plus spares) reside at the Tower of London by royal decree. Legend holds: "If the ravens leave the Tower, the kingdom will fall." Charles II allegedly ordered their protection in the 1660s, though the tradition may be Victorian.
Named after historical figures: Jubilee, Raven, Poppy, Harris, Gripp, Branwen, and others. They're free-flying but return to enclosures nightly. Wings are trimmed (not clipped) to limit range—they've reached Trafalgar Square and Parliament Hill.
A Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) serves as Ravenmaster—feeding raw meat, biscuits soaked in blood, eggs, and occasional rabbit; cleaning enclosures; monitoring health; managing breeding. It's a dedicated, respected role.
Ravens are intelligent, mischievous, and photogenic. They steal shiny objects, mimic sounds, and pose for tourists. Their presence blends living history, superstition, and wildlife conservation into a uniquely British institution.