Michael Chandler Tower Of London’s Ravenmaster

LONDON, England: Michael Chandler, a former marine commando, has embarked on a unique and storied mission as the new Ravenmaster at the Tower of London—a role steeped in legend and responsibility.

According to an ancient prophecy, if the ravens ever leave the Tower, both the fortress and the United Kingdom itself are doomed to collapse. King Charles II, who reigned from 1660 to 1685, was the first to ensure the protection of these birds, a tradition that has been upheld for centuries.

Chandler, who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, is now tasked with the care of these legendary birds, a duty that involves more than just feeding them.

As the sixth Ravenmaster since the late 1960s, Chandler oversees a team responsible for the wellbeing of the Tower’s ravens. Clad in the traditional black and red uniform of the Yeomen Warders, commonly known as Beefeaters, Chandler has grown deeply connected to the birds under his watch.

Initially drawn to the Tower of London by its rich history and the legend of the ravens, Chandler found himself enchanted by the intelligence and personalities of these birds. “They’re individuals, they are characters, just like us,” he notes, highlighting the unique bond he has developed with them.

Currently, seven ravens reside at the Tower, one more than the minimum required to keep the prophecy at bay. Among them are Edgar and Harris, who were observed by Chandler during a recent feeding session, and Rex, named in honor of King Charles III. The ravens are well-cared for, with some even having their feathers trimmed to prevent them from flying too high—a precaution to ensure they remain within the Tower’s confines. These birds enjoy a life expectancy of around 20 years at the Tower, significantly longer than their wild counterparts.

Chandler’s duties extend beyond the daily care of the ravens. He also participated in the historic duty of guarding Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin at Westminster Abbey, a moment he describes as the proudest of his life. His role as Ravenmaster is not just about maintaining a tradition but also about preserving a piece of British history that continues to capture the imagination of millions.

As Chandler takes on this venerable role, he does so with a deep sense of duty, not just to the ravens, but to the legacy they represent. His new mission, though different from his military past, is no less important, ensuring that a centuries-old tradition lives on, safeguarding both the Tower and, as legend has it, the kingdom itself.