Raven

Ravens are a distinct and noble breed of bird that historically shared a deep bond with the dwarves of the Lonely Mountain. Unlike the rude and suspicious crows that harassed Thorin's company, ravens were trusted allies. Balin recalls that in the days of Thror, there was great friendship between the ravens and the dwarves; the ravens often brought secret news and were rewarded with bright trinkets they coveted for their dwellings. They live many years, possess long memories, and hand down their wisdom to their offspring. The height called Ravenhill was named after a wise and famous pair, old Carc and his wife, who once lived there above the guard-chamber.

Roäc's Message

When the company was besieged in the Mountain after Smaug's death, the old thrush summoned a decrepit raven of great size, nearly blind and bald-headed, who alighted stiffly before them. This was Roäc, son of Carc, now the chief of the great ravens of the Mountain. Speaking in ordinary language that Bilbo could understand, Roäc announced the momentous news: Smaug was dead, slain in battle with the men of Esgaroth at the rising of the moon three nights earlier. The dwarves erupted in joy, but Roäc sobered them with further tidings. A host of Elves was already on the march, and the Lake-men, homeless and grieving, blamed the dwarves for their ruin and sought recompense from the treasure. Roäc advised Thorin not to trust the Master of Lake-town but rather to rely on Bard, the dragon-slayer of the line of Girion, a grim but true man. He urged peace among dwarves, men, and elves, warning that it might cost dear in gold.

Thorin's Response and the Ravens' Role

Thorin, though angered by the news, thanked Roäc and promised that the ravens would not be forgotten. He then requested that Roäc send messengers to the dwarves' kin in the mountains of the North, especially to his cousin Dain in the Iron Hills, bidding him hasten with armed aid. Roäc, while declining to judge the wisdom of Thorin's counsel, agreed to do what he could. Thereafter, the ravens brought constant tidings to the dwarves as they fortified the Front Gate, reporting the movements of the Elvenking's host and the approach of Dain's forces. Thus the ravens served as the dwarves' eyes and ears during the siege, their ancient loyalty proving indispensable in the final crisis of the quest.