The Tower of London Ravens: Legend, History, and Care

**Legend:** "If the six ravens ever leave the Tower, the Kingdom will fall."

Origins

• Attributed to **Charles II (1660s)**—warned by astronomer Flamsteed that ravens departing would doom the monarchy.
• Ordered **six ravens kept at all times**; wings clipped to prevent flight.
• Survived WWII (only one raven, "Grip," remained; Churchill ordered more).

Current Practice

• 7 ravens kept (6 + 1 spare) at the **Ravenmaster's House** (on Tower Green).
• Ravenmaster: Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) with dedicated role—currently Christopher Skaife (since 2011).
• Diet: Raw meat (chicken, mouse, rat), blood-soaked biscuits, eggs, occasional fruit/nuts.
• Territory: Free-roam Tower grounds by day; caged at night.

The Ravens Today

• Names: Jubilee, Harris, Gripp, Rocky, Erin, Poppy, Georgie (as of 2024).
• Breeding programme (with bird parks) ensures supply.
• Major tourist attraction; social media stars.

Symbolism

Ravens = guardians of the realm. The legend transforms a pragmatic pest-control measure (ravens scavenged Tower waste) into a **national totem**—linking monarchy, history, and superstition in a living ceremony.