The Raven Mocker

We explore the terrifying Cherokee legend of the Raven Mocker (Kâ’lanû Ahkyeli’skï ), one of the most feared entities in Cherokee mythology.

The Raven Mocker is described as an ancient shapeshifting witch that preys upon the dying, consuming their hearts to steal their remaining years of life through supernatural means.

According to Cherokee tradition, these malevolent beings appear as withered elderly humans but can transform into fiery, raven-like creatures that soar through the night sky, invisible to all except Cherokee medicine men.

It is said that Raven Mockers must feed every seven days to survive and can supernaturally extract their victims’ hearts without leaving any physical wounds.

We discuss several historical accounts and modern encounters, including a chilling story about an oil field worker’s face-to-face encounter with a feathered humanoid creature and a medicine man’s lifelong battle against these entities.