My Extraordinary Life with the Ravens at the Tower of London: A Behind-the-Scenes Account

From the bustling streets of London to the hallowed halls of the Tower of London, my journey as a Raven Keeper has been a remarkable adventure. For over a decade, I have dedicated my life to caring for these magnificent birds, witnessing firsthand their captivating personalities and the rich history they embody.

The History of Ravens at the Tower

Legend has it that King Charles II declared that the ravens must always be present at the Tower, lest the monarchy and the kingdom fall. The birds became a symbol of the Tower's indomitable spirit, enduring centuries of wars, fires, and executions.

The Ravenmaster: My Life with the Ravens at the Tower of London

by Christopher Skaife

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24126 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages

FREE

Today, six resident ravens, lovingly named Merlina, Jubilee, Harvin, Poppy, Georgie, and Branwen, call the Tower home. Each bird possesses its own unique character and quirks, adding to the charm of this extraordinary aviary.

My Daily Routine

My day at the Tower begins long before the first visitors arrive. I enter the ravens' bastion, a secure enclosure where they reside, and greet my feathered companions. I clean their aviary, offering them fresh water and a varied diet of meat, fruit, and vegetables.

As the sun rises, the ravens awaken, their black feathers shimmering in the morning light. I spend countless hours observing their behavior, marveling at their complex social dynamics. They communicate through a series of calls, ranging from guttural croaks to melodic songs.

The Bond Between Ravens and Keepers

Over the years, I have developed a deep bond with each of the ravens. They recognize my voice, and their eyes gleam with curiosity whenever I approach. I have had the privilege of witnessing their intelligence and affectionate nature firsthand.

Jubilee, the oldest and most experienced raven, has a mischievous personality. She enjoys playing with toys and can often be found hiding food in the crevices of her aviary. Harvin, on the other hand, is a gentle giant, always eager for a treat and a scratch on the head.

Unveiling the Secrets of the Raven

In addition to their captivating personalities, ravens possess remarkable cognitive abilities. They have an exceptional memory, capable of recognizing faces and voices for years. They also exhibit problem-solving skills, using tools to access food or manipulate their environment.

I am involved in ongoing research that explores the intelligence and behavior of these enigmatic birds. Through observations and experiments, we aim to shed light on their cognitive abilities and their role as symbols of power and mystery throughout history.

Enriching the Lives of Visitors

As a Raven Keeper, I have the opportunity to share my passion for these birds with visitors from around the world. I conduct guided tours, allowing guests to learn about the ravens' history, behavior, and their captivating bond with their keepers.

The ravens themselves play a vital role in enhancing the visitor experience. Their playful antics, curious nature, and stunning appearance captivate audiences, leaving a lasting impression.

Legacy and

My life with the ravens at the Tower of London has been an extraordinary privilege. I have had the honor of caring for these remarkable creatures, witnessing their intelligence, resilience, and rich symbolism. Their presence has added a touch of magic to my days, and their enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

As I conclude my journey as a Raven Keeper, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have played a part in preserving the tradition of these iconic birds. May their presence at the Tower of London continue to fascinate and enchant visitors for centuries to come.

The Ravenmaster: My Life with the Ravens at the Tower of London

by Christopher Skaife

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24126 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages

FREE