One of the eight famed ravens at the Tower of London is thought to have died, several weeks after going missing.
A 300-year-old royal decree states that at least six ravens must be kept at the tower, in keeping with an omen that if the ravens leave, the kingdom will meet with disaster.
The ravens at the tower can live for 25 years and are a popular fixture for tourists, some of whom are familiar with the birds by name.
“Though it isn’t unusual for our ravens to roam outside the walls, free-spirited Merlina has previously always returned to the Tower and to the Ravenmaster and his team, with whom she shared a wonderfully close bond.”
Ravens in many cultures are a bad omen. English legend appears to reverse this, however.
According to the Tower of London website, the legend tells that an astronomer complained to King Charles II that the ravens were interfering with his observations.
To keep the birds amused, he gave them footballs, squeaky dog toys, and teddies.
The Tower of London was founded by William the Conqueror in 1066-67, and enlarged and modified by successive kings and queens.
“During its 900-year history it has been a royal palace and fortress, prison and place of execution, mint, arsenal, menagerie and jewel house,” according to the official website.