Animal Mascots

In the 21st-century the military has become very heavily associated with new technology such as smart bombs, drones and artificial intelligence. However, in line with its finest traditions the British Army still retains a number of regimental mascots some of which go back hundreds of years. Drew travelled all over the UK to shoot this series, England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales to photograph the mascots in some very notable locations including the Giants Causeway (a UNESCO World heritage site), Stirling castle, one of the homes of the Scottish regiment and Chatsworth House the seat of the Duke of Devonshire.

Regiments of the British Army have kept both official and unofficial animal mascots to work with them since the 18th century, as they were seen to bring luck and boost morale. There are ten official mascots in the British Army, all of whom are treated like any other soldier – they have a regimental number and rank, and can even be promoted or demoted. Some of these mascots have connections to their regiment’s home county while others symbolise part of their unit’s history.