Classification: Mythical Beasts & Cryptids

Temporal Range: 9th Century but possibly earlier

Geographic Range: Odin’s shoulders when they’re not flying across the world

Diet: Fallen warriors

Horde: Nordic

The two black ravens, Huginn and Muninn, are most often seen resting on the Norse god Odin’s shoulders, whispering what they have learned into his ears. They gather their knowledge by flying all over the world and returning with it to their master. As a god of death and war, Odin is closely associated with ravens, corvids and carrion birds, since they feed on fallen warriors. In one ancient document, Odin is even referred to as the "feeder of the raven."

Their names roughly translate to “thought” and “memory,” suggesting they are more than just hungry, vicious birds that scour battlefields for corpses. The fact that they bring Odin news from across the world highlights their intelligence and cunning.

It has been suggested that Huginn and Muninn are more than mere birds, and that, as part of shamanic practice, they may actually represent a spiritual aspect of Odin, sent forth to gather knowledge for him. Either way, they are incredibly smart, with an appetite for both information and flesh.

We’ve also heard they’re terrible gossips, so if they land on your shoulder, expect an excellent story or two.