The Tower of London has locked up its famous ravens to protect them from the threat of bird flu, with legend predicting that the tower and the kingdom will fall if the ravens go.
By
AFP

Source:
AFP
21 Feb 2006 - 12:00 AM  UPDATED 22 Aug 2013 - 12:18 PM

Special aviaries have been built within the fortress for the birds - Baldrick, Bran, Branwen, Gundulf, Gwyllum, Hugine, Munin and Thor - as avian influenza spreads across Europe.

The tower's yeoman raven master, Derrick Coyle, said: "Although we don't like having to bring the tower ravens inside, we believe it is the safest thing to do for their own protection, given the speed that the virus is moving across Europe.

"We are taking advice on the vaccinations against avian flu, and in the meantime, we will continue to give our six ravens as much care and attention as they need."

The tower, a major tourist attraction, was founded in the 11th century.

Mindful of the legend, 17th century king Charles II decreed that the tower must always house at least six ravens - birds of ill omen. To prevent the ravens from flying away, their lifting feathers are trimmed.