![]() ![]() He did, however, have to complete a five-year apprenticeship with the previous Ravenmaster. The Ravenmaster at the time "saw something in him," Skaife says, and introduced him to the ravens, who apparently liked him-and the rest is history. Skaife started out as a regular Yeoman Warder who had no particular experience with birds. Skaife served for 24 years-he was a machine-gun specialist and is an expert in survival and interrogation resistance. MILITARY SERVICE IS REQUIRED.Īll Yeoman Warders must have at least 22 years of military service to qualify for the position and have earned a good-conduct medal. Recently, Mental Floss visited him to learn more about his life in service of the ravens. Skaife has worked at the Tower for 11 years, and has many stories to tell. ![]() ![]() According to a foreboding legend with many variations, if there aren’t at least six ravens living within the Tower, both the Tower and the monarchy will fall. His job is to maintain the health and safety of the flock of ravens (also called an “unkindness” or a “conspiracy”) that live within the Tower walls. There are 37 Yeoman Warders, popularly known as Beefeaters, but Skaife has what might be the coolest title of them all: He is the Ravenmaster. Christopher Skaife is a Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London, an ancient fortress that has been used as a jail, royal residence, and more. ![]()
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