Hubbry Logo
Grand HowlGrand HowlMain
Open search
Grand Howl
Community hub
Grand Howl
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Grand Howl
Grand Howl
Grand Howl
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

The Grand Howl is a ceremony used by Cub Scouts and Brownies.[1][2][3][4][5] It was devised by Robert Baden-Powell, the author of the scouting guide Scouting for Boys, and is based on the Mowgli stories in Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book.[6] In the ceremony, Cubs act out the wolves greeting Akela, the "Old Wolf", at the Council Rock and are reminded of the Cub Scout Promise. Baden-Powell also created a Grand Howl for Brownie Guides, which was in imitation of an owl instead of a wolf. It has been used as an opening[7][8] and closing ceremony[9][10] as well as a method of conveying thanks or appreciation[11] by all sections of Scouting.[12][13]

Key Information

Origin

[edit]
Main article: The Jungle Book and Scouting

In the wild, wolves howl to assemble the pack usually before and after hunts, to pass on an alarm particularly at a den site, to locate each other during a storm or while crossing unfamiliar territory, and to communicate across great distances.[14][15] Grand howls had been part of social occasions since at least the 1850s.[16]

Five years after the founding of the Scout movement, Baden-Powell and others worked on a scheme for those who were too young to join the Boy Scouts at the age of 11, initially called "Junior Scouts". By the time of the launch of the scheme, Baden-Powell had obtained the approval of his friend and neighbor, Rudyard Kipling, to use the Jungle Book as a theme. Under the name of "Wolf Cubs", the 8- to 10-year-old boys would take part in basic versions of the activities enjoyed by the older Boy Scouts, but within a background of the jungle in the Mowgli stories of Kipling's 1898 book. The Cubs would act out scenes from the stories, and the adult leaders would adopt the names of characters from the book. For example, the leader in charge would be titled Akela, after the character Akela who led the titular Mowgli's wolf pack in Kipling's novel.

Baden-Powell book, entitled The Wolf Cub's Handbook, was published on 2 December 1916. In the first chapter, he describes the following scene in The Jungle Book and provides some additional context for the Grand Howl ceremony:

The wolves all sat round the council rock in a circle, and when Akela, the old wolf, the head of the pack, took his place on the rock, they all threw up their heads and howled their greeting to him. When your Old Wolf, Akela - that is your Cubmaster or other Scouter - comes to your meeting you salute him by squatting round in a circle as young wolves do, and giving him the Wolf Cub Grand Howl.[17]

— Robert Baden-Powell, The Wolf Cub's Handbook

Original Grand Howl

[edit]
At the 1st World Scout Jamboree, 500 Wolf Cubs perform a Grand Howl in the arena at Olympia, London.

The original instructions for the Grand Howl, described by Vera Barclay and Baden-Powell in The Wolf Cub's Handbook.

Form yourselves into a circle (quickly, a Wolf Cub never walks, he runs!). Then squat down on your heels with your two fore paws on the ground between your feet, knees out to either side. Then when the Old Wolf comes to the Pack, the young Wolves throw up their heads and howl. But their howl means something. They want to welcome him, and at the same time to show that they are ready to obey his command. The call of the Pack all over the world is “We’ll do our best”; so when your Cubmaster comes into the circle you chuck up your chins and, all together, you howl out — making each word a long yowl: “Ah-kay-la! — We-e-e-e-ll do-o-o-o o-o-o-u-u-r BEST.” Yell the word “best” sharp and loud and short and all together; and at the same time spring to your feet with two fingers of each hand pointing upwards at each side of your head, to look like two wolf’s ears. That’s the way to do it. Now what does it mean? It means that you will do your best with BOTH hands — not merely with one like most boys, who only use their right hand. Your best will be twice as good as any ordinary boy’s best. “Do your best” is the Cub’s motto. Then keep your two hands up while the leading Cub calls to the Pack, at the top of his voice: “Dyb-dyb-dyb-dyb” (meaning Do Your Best). Then every Cub after the fourth “dyb” drops his left hand smartly to his side and keeping the right hand at the salute, with two fingers up, but now spread out making the salute, squeals “We-e-e-l” and barks out “Dob-dob-dob-dob” (We’ll Do Our Best). After the fourth “dob” each Cub drops his right hand smartly to his side and stands at the “Alert” and waits for orders.

National variants

[edit]
A Grand Howl by German Cubs of the Bund Deutscher Pfadfinder in 1950

United Kingdom

[edit]

In 1966, a complete review of the UK Scout Association, The Chief Scouts' Advance Party Report, recommended that less emphasis be placed on the Jungle Book for Wolf Cubs, who were to be renamed Cub Scouts. Although the Grand Howl was to be retained, it was revised, replacing the "dybs" with plain language to "make the significance clearer to parents and public".[18] The recommendations were accepted and began to be implemented in October 1966.[19] The revised Grand Howl is as follows:

Pack in circle.
Cub Scout Leader in centre, arms outstretched facing Sixer;
Cub Scout Leader arms down;
Pack squats.
Pack: "Akela! We'll do our best".
Sixer: "Cubs! Do your best".
Cubs: "We will do our best", giving the Scout salute (which had replaced the two-finger salute in the Cub Section).[18][20]

Following a further programme review between 2000 and 2002, the Grand Howl became optional, allowing Packs to adopt themes other than the Jungle Book - although local groups had always adapted the ceremony.[21][22]

The independent Baden-Powell Scouts' Association and British Boy Scouts and British Girl Scouts Association continue with the original Grand Howl.[23]

United States

[edit]

The Cub Scout programme of the Boy Scouts of America and Brownies of the Girl Scouts of the USA[24] have used the traditional Grand Howl as a "special recognition ceremony" with the person being honoured (a guest, parent or member of the Pack), standing in the centre of the circle.[25] In addition, a Short Grand Howl can be used as follows:

Cubs make the two fingered Cub Scout Sign with both hands, fingertips touching the floor in a squatting position.
They howl; "Ah-h-kay-y-la! We-e-e'll do-o-o ou-u-r best!"
As they yell the last word, "best", they jump up with both hands above their heads in the Cub Scouts Sign.[26]

Canada

[edit]

The Cub Scouts of Scouts Canada use the traditional Grand Howl.[27][28] The following version is used in French speaking Packs:

A-a-a K-é-é La-a,
De... no... tre... mieux!
De... vo... tre... mieux!
Oui, de... no... tre... mieux![29]

Australia

[edit]

The Grand Howl used by the Cub Scouts of Scouts Australia is as follows:

Cub Scouts: "A-ke-la, we'll do our best."
Selected Cub Scout: "Do your best."
Cub Scouts: "We'll do our best."[30]

New Zealand Cubs prepare for a Grand Howl at the 18th National Scout Jamboree in Christchurch, January 2008.

New Zealand

[edit]

The Grand Howl used by the Cubs of Scouts New Zealand is identical to the version currently used in the United Kingdom.[31]

Brazil

[edit]

The Grand Howl of the Scouts of Brazil goes as follows: Akela forms the Pack into a circle position, and when he chooses a pack member, everyone goes in the Cub Scout squatting position and say:

"Akela, we'll do our best!"

Then, everybody stands up doing the two fingered Cub Scout Sign with both hands, to represent a wolf's ears, and the chosen cub says:

"Best, Best, Best, Best?"

Then all the pack, doing the Cub Scout salute, says:

"Yes! Best, Best, Best, Best!"[32]

Brownies

[edit]

A junior section of Girl Guides started in 1914 in the United Kingdom, under the name of "Rosebuds"; this name was disliked by girls and it was soon amended to Brownies, being themed on the story by Juliana Ewing.[33] In Baden-Powell's 1918 book, "Girl Guiding: A Handbook for Brownies, Guides and Rangers", the Grand Howl is described as "the grandest salute a Pack (of Brownies) can give, and is only for very special occasions". Baden-Powell describes how the Brownies should begin in a squatting position, in the same way as the Cub equivalent, but repeating "Tu-whit, tu-whit, Tu-whoo-oo" three times, each time getting louder and rising higher, until at the end of the third repetition, the Brownies were to jump in the air and clap their hands above their heads.[34]

In the United Kingdom, the 1966 report called Tomorrow's Guide by a Working Party set up to revise and update the programme of the Girl Guides Association, recommended a reduction in the number of ceremonies used by Brownies;[35] the Grand Howl was not retained. The Brownie Grand Howl is still used by the Girl Guides of Canada.[36]

Cultural impact

[edit]

A Wolf Cub Grand Howl takes place in George Orwell's A Clergyman's Daughter.[37]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Bibliography

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Grand Howl

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Grand Howl is a ceremonial opening and closing ritual performed by Cub Scouts during pack meetings, in which participants form a circle, squat on the ground with hands between their feet in imitation of young wolves, and collectively shout "Akela, we'll do our best!" to affirm their commitment to the . Devised by Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the movement, the Grand Howl was introduced in 1916 as part of the newly launched Wolf Cubs program for boys aged 8 to 11, drawing direct inspiration from the wolf pack gatherings described in Rudyard Kipling's . Baden-Powell adapted elements like the character Akela—the wise wolf leader—as the symbolic title for the Cub pack leader to emphasize themes of loyalty, discipline, and adventure in youth training. The ceremony quickly became one of the oldest and most distinctive traditions in Cub Scouting, helping to differentiate it from other youth organizations by incorporating playful, nature-inspired elements that foster group unity and focus. In performance, the ritual typically begins with the pack leader calling "Pack! Pack! Pack!" to assemble the Cubs into a circle, followed by an alert stance and the leader raising their arms to signal the squat and howl; it concludes with the Cubs standing, making the two-finger Scout sign, and a duty leader prompting the group response "We will do our best!" to reinforce personal effort and readiness. While the core structure remains consistent worldwide, national variations exist, such as the inclusion of a literal howling sound in some packs or adaptations for inclusivity in modern Scouting; in the United Kingdom, it is still widely used but has evolved to exclude older phrases like the repeated "Dyb, Dyb, Dyb" (for "Do Your Best"). The Grand Howl also extends to Brownie Guides in some regions, promoting similar values of promise-keeping and collective enthusiasm among young participants.

Origins and Development

Inspiration from Literature

The Grand Howl ceremony in Scouting draws its primary literary inspiration from Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book, published in 1894, which features the character Mowgli raised by a wolf pack in the Seeonee hills of India. In the stories, Mowgli participates in the pack's communal life, including assemblies at the Council Rock where the wolves gather under the leadership of Akela, the gray Lone Wolf, to discuss laws, accept new members, and maintain order. These narratives emphasize the wolves' hierarchical yet cooperative structure, with Akela presiding over meetings by calling the pack to attention. Central to the inspiration are depictions of wolf pack behaviors, particularly the calling howls used during councils. At the Council Rock, the wolves form a circle, and Akela initiates proceedings with cries such as "Look well, O Wolves!" prompting responses from the pack, including howls from the young wolves to affirm loyalty or challenge authority, as seen when they howl "Akela! Akela! Let the Lone Wolf show his strength." These vocalizations serve to assemble the group, signal unity, and reinforce the pack's bond, elements that resonated with early ideals of discipline through communal ritual. Kipling's portrayal of the "Grand Council" thus provided a model for a ceremonial gathering, adapted by Robert Baden-Powell to encourage imaginative play among young boys. The Jungle Book's immense popularity in Edwardian Britain, where it sold widely and captivated readers with its exotic tales of animal societies and human-animal harmony, aligned closely with Baden-Powell's longstanding fascination with nature observation and animal behaviors as tools for youth development. By 1916, when Baden-Powell sought and received Kipling's permission to incorporate these themes into the Wolf Cubs program, the stories had become a cultural touchstone for imperial-era ideals of adventure and self-reliance. This literary foundation supported Baden-Powell's approach to training, using mimicry of animal packs to foster teamwork and outdoor skills in children.

Creation by Baden-Powell

Robert Baden-Powell developed the Wolf Cubs program in 1916 to provide structured training for boys aged 8 to 11, filling the gap for younger children eager to participate in activities before reaching the official Boy Scout entry age of 12. This initiative addressed the growing demand from younger siblings of Scouts, who had been informally involved through "junior troops" or "training squads" since around 1910, but required a distinct program to suit their developmental stage. The Grand Howl was first formally introduced as a core ceremonial element of the Wolf Cubs in The Wolf Cub's Handbook, published on December 2, 1916, co-authored by Baden-Powell and Vera Barclay. This handbook outlined the program's structure, including rituals inspired by wolf pack dynamics to engage young boys in a fun yet disciplined manner, marking the announcement of the Wolf Cubs program in October 1916 under the Boy Scout Association, with the formal launch following on December 16, 1916, at , . Baden-Powell's personal motivations for creating the Grand Howl stemmed from his experiences at the 1907 , which informed his broader philosophy, though the howl itself was developed later to embody wolf pack greetings and instill values like , , and enjoyment through animal-themed rituals. Drawing from his military background, including during the Siege of Mafeking, he sought to differentiate the Cubs from older Scouts by emphasizing playful, imaginative elements that built character and pack unity without diluting the seriousness of principles. The concept evolved from initial ideas in drafts dating back to 1913–1915, when Baden-Powell commissioned schemes for "Junior Scouts" to prepare boys for full , incorporating influences like Rudyard Kipling's wolf pack dynamics for thematic depth. These early outlines, revised amid demands, culminated in the program to create a vibrant, age-appropriate extension of that promoted early habit formation in responsibility and teamwork.

Ceremony Description

Procedure of the Original Grand Howl

The original Grand Howl, as detailed in the 1916 edition of The Wolf Cub's Handbook by Robert Baden-Powell, commenced with the Wolf Cubs rapidly forming a circle around their Pack leader, who assumed the role of Akela. The Cubs then crouched down on all fours in a wolf-like position, squatting on their heels with their hands placed as forepaws on the ground between their feet and knees extended outward to the sides. Upon Akela's entrance or a signal such as "Pack! Pack! Pack!", the Cubs threw up their chins and issued a collective howl, elongating the syllables in a rising crescendo from low to high pitch: "Ah-kay-la! We-e-e-e-ll do-o-o-o o-o-o-u-u-r BEST!", culminating in a sharp, unified yell of "BEST". This vocalization was immediately followed by the Cubs springing to their feet and raising both hands with the two fingers of each hand pointing upwards at each side of the head to mimic wolf ears. A designated leading Cub next called out "Dyb-dyb-dyb-dyb" four times in succession, prompting the Pack—after the fourth "dyb"—to respond with a squealed "We'll!" while lowering their left hands, raising their right hands in a , and then barking "Dob-dob-dob-dob" four times. Upon completing the fourth "dob", the Cubs dropped their right hands smartly and stood at for Akela's orders. The entire sequence typically lasted 1 to 2 minutes and was conducted at the opening or closing of early Wolf Cubs meetings, suitable for indoor spaces or cleared outdoor areas. This ritual drew brief inspiration from the depiction of wolves assembling around the council rock in Rudyard Kipling's .

Symbolism and Purpose

The Grand Howl symbolizes the unity and obedience of a pack to its leader, Akela, drawing from the Jungle Book-inspired framework of the Wolf Cubs program. In this ritual, Cubs gather in a circle to howl their commitment, representing loyalty and collective readiness to follow guidance, which instills teamwork, respect for authority, and adherence to the Cub Promise of doing one's best. Baden-Powell emphasized that the during the howl signifies using "both hands—not merely with one like most boys"—to double one's effort, underscoring the pack's shared dedication over individual action. This imagery reinforces the Law of the Pack, particularly the principle that "The Cub gives in to the Old ," teaching young members to prioritize group harmony and hierarchical respect in their daily interactions. The primary purpose of the Grand Howl in youth development is to foster a sense of excitement and belonging within Pack meetings, transforming routine gatherings into engaging, ritualistic events that build communal bonds. By participating in the call-and-response structure, Cubs reinforce the Law of the Wolf Cub, such as yielding to the "Old Wolf" to symbolize self-discipline and hierarchy, while gaining confidence through synchronized group expression. The Grand Howl serves as a "safety valve" for boys' natural energy, channeling noise and enthusiasm into disciplined participation that promotes focus and mutual support, ultimately preparing them for progression to full Scouting. As envisioned by Baden-Powell, the Grand Howl offers psychological and social benefits by encouraging vocal expression and physical coordination, allowing urban children to embrace a "sense of wild adventure" through imaginative wolf-pack play that counters the constraints of city life. This ritual stimulates alertness—"two eyes on the two eyes of the Totem and the two eyes of all the Pack upon you"—fostering observational skills and a watchful, helpful mindset essential for character growth. It also builds social resilience by emphasizing cheerful obedience and pack unity, helping boys develop perseverance and camaraderie in a structured yet playful environment. In daily Pack routines, the Grand Howl signals readiness for activities, marking the opening and closing of meetings to promote , transition focus, and end on a note of collective affirmation, thereby embedding discipline and purpose into the Cubs' weekly experience.

International Variations

United Kingdom

The Grand Howl was initially adopted in 1916 upon the formation of the Wolf Cubs by Robert Baden-Powell, serving as a standard opening and closing for pack meetings that emphasized pack unity and the Cub "Do Your Best." The original procedure involved Cubs forming a circle around the Council Rock, squatting on their heels with hands as forepaws, and howling "Akela, we'll do our best" upon the leader's entrance, followed by the "Dyb-dyb-dyb" . In 1966, revisions outlined in Policy, Organisation and Rules shortened the ceremony to a standing formation where the leader calls "Cub Scouts, do your best!" and the pack responds "We will do our best!", making it less obligatory and aligning with modernization efforts to reduce the animalistic crouching posture. These changes reflected broader updates from the 1961 Advance Party Report, which aimed to refresh practices amid declining membership. Following a programme review between 2000 and 2002, declared the Grand Howl optional, enabling packs to develop custom greetings or themes beyond the Jungle Book inspiration while retaining flexibility for traditional elements. As of 2025, the Grand Howl continues in some Cub packs, particularly for opening and closing meetings, flag ceremonies, or special events like camps, though many groups opt for alternative rituals to foster inclusivity and personalization.

United States

The Grand Howl was adopted by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) in the early 1910s through unofficial programs for younger boys, drawing from Robert Baden-Powell's original Wolf Cubs ceremony, and was formally integrated into the Cub Scouting program upon its launch in 1930. This adaptation aligned with the BSA's emphasis on age-appropriate activities inspired by Rudyard Kipling's , where is raised by wolves. In American Cub Scouting, the Grand Howl serves primarily as a "special yell" to recognize achievements, such as rank advancements, awards, or appreciation for leaders, rather than as a routine meeting opener. It fosters a sense of pack unity and excitement during these moments, often performed in or pack settings to celebrate milestones like earning the Bobcat badge or completing adventures. The procedure typically involves Cub Scouts forming a standing circle around the honored individual, such as the Cubmaster acting as "Akela." Participants squat down, place the sign (two fingers extended) on the ground between their feet, raise their heads, and emit a collective wolf-like howl that builds in intensity. As the howl fades, they spring to their feet, raise their right arms with the sign, and shout "Akela! We'll do our best!"—an Americanized phrase echoing the Cub Scout Motto, "Do Your Best!" As of 2025, under Scouting America (the rebranded BSA), the Grand Howl remains encouraged in the Cub Scout Leader How-To Book for ceremonial use but is not mandatory, allowing packs flexibility in implementation. It is particularly popular in Arrow of Light ceremonies, marking the transition to , where it symbolizes the culmination of a 's journey. To promote inclusivity, variations such as silent gestures, cheers, or non-vocal alternatives are suggested for participants who may feel uncomfortable with howling, aligning with broader efforts to make Scouting accessible to all youth.

Canada

In Canadian Scouting, the Grand Howl was adopted early in the 20th century following the establishment of the Boy Scouts Association of Canada in 1914, with the Wolf Cub program—now known as Cub Scouts—formally introduced in 1916, quickly becoming a standard ceremony for Cub packs across the country. This tradition, influenced by the United Kingdom model, emphasizes the Jungle Book theme central to Cub Scouting. The traditional English version closely mirrors the original UK procedure, where Cubs form a circle, salute Akela (the pack leader), and perform the howl to open and close meetings, culminating in the collective response of "Akela, We'll do our best" to affirm their commitment. In bilingual contexts, especially within French-speaking packs, the ceremony integrates phrases like "Akela, nous ferons de notre mieux" during the responsive portions. Bilingual adaptations are prominent in and other francophone groups, where a full French translation termed the "Grand Hurlement" has been incorporated since the 1950s, allowing the to align with local linguistic and cultural norms while preserving its core symbolism. As of 2025, the Grand Howl continues as a mandatory element in many Cub packs per Scouts Canada's official guidelines, though its implementation offers flexibility for , such as modifications in diverse or urban settings; it remains particularly strong in rural and traditional sections, reinforcing pack unity and heritage.

Australia

The Grand Howl was introduced to n Scouting in the early 1920s through strong British colonial ties, following the global establishment of Wolf Cubs in , and quickly became a core element of youth ceremonies in the nascent movement. By the mid-1920s, it was integrated into pack meetings across states, reflecting the shared heritage with the United Kingdom's original form. In contemporary practice, Joeys (ages 5-7) and Cubs (ages 8-10) form a circle, often around a , with leaders calling "Pack! Pack! Pack!" to elicit the response "Akela, we'll do our best." Participants then raise the two-finger sign, crouch, and perform a progressively louder howl to symbolize unity and commitment to the section's , concluding by lowering their hands while saying "Good hunting" or repeating "We'll do our best," sometimes incorporating pack-specific yells for added enthusiasm. This ritual is employed in opening and closing parades, as well as investitures, to foster and mark significant moments. Regional variations emphasize greater energy during outdoor settings, such as camps or jamborees, where the howl may echo more dynamically amid natural surroundings, while indoor versions remain subdued to suit hall environments. Following program updates in the 2010s, including the 2015 Youth Program Review, the Grand Howl became optional for routine meetings to allow flexibility in youth-led activities, though it remains a required component for formal investitures and key ceremonies. As of 2025, the Grand Howl continues to be widely adopted in Joey and Cub sections nationwide, with a strong focus on promoting fun, inclusivity, and personal growth through adaptable, youth-driven execution. In some states, such as and , groups incorporate Indigenous elements like an Acknowledgement of Country prior to the howl, enhancing cultural relevance and reconciliation efforts within .

New Zealand

The Grand Howl was adopted in New Zealand during the 1910s following the introduction of the Wolf Cub program in 1916, aligning closely with British Scouting traditions as the movement spread rapidly after its establishment in the country in 1908. This ceremony has remained nearly identical to the original 1916 version devised by Robert Baden-Powell, even after the section's name changed from Wolf Cubs to Cub Scouts in the 1960s. No major revisions to the procedure have occurred post-1966, preserving its core elements in official New Zealand Scouting guides. In Cub packs, the Grand Howl serves as the standard opening and closing ceremony at pack meetings, involving the full procedure of crouching and howling to foster unity and enthusiasm. The ritual begins with Akela calling "Pack, Pack, Pack," prompting the Cubs to form a circle and respond "P-a-a-a-a-ck!" before assuming a with hands like paws between their knees; the group then howls "Ah-ka-la! We'll do our best," jumping to attention on the final word, followed by a and dismissal. This practice is detailed in official leader guides and emphasizes the Jungle Book-inspired themes central to the section. Cultural integration has seen the Grand Howl and related Cub activities incorporate elements in packs influenced by local , particularly since the 1990s, with the Cub Promise and Law available in te reo and activities including learning s or songs as part of award schemes. For instance, the Gold Award Scheme encourages Cubs to learn a or song to share with the pack, blending traditional rituals with indigenous customs in regions with strong participation. Such adaptations reflect broader efforts in to honor , as seen in early troops using names and games since the 1910s. As of 2025, the Grand Howl continues as a promoted standard in most Cub packs across Scouts , used to build team spirit and mark the start and end of meetings with minimal decline in usage compared to its historical prevalence. Official resources maintain its role in welcoming new members and farewelling others, underscoring its enduring place in the program despite evolving youth activities.

Brazil

In Brazilian Scouting, the Grand Howl is known as the Grande Uivo and was introduced in the early 1920s as part of the Lobinhos (Wolf Cubs) program, with the first recorded pack established in 1924 by the Associação de Escoteiros Católicos in Rio de Janeiro. This adaptation drew from the global roots in Robert Baden-Powell's design, inspired by Rudyard Kipling's , and incorporated the Portuguese phrasing "Akela, faremos o nosso melhor" during the ceremony to affirm the Cubs' commitment. The procedure follows a similar structure to the original, with Lobinhos forming a crouching circle in the "Círculo de Parada," where the Akela stands at the center and lowers their arms to signal the group to squat and touch the ground with two fingers while shouting the pledge in unison. The Cubs then leap up, placing hands by their ears to mimic ears, as a designated calls "Melhor?" four times, prompting enthusiastic responses of "Sim, melhor!" with the Lobinho salute, emphasizing group unity and readiness to follow guidance. This ritual, performed at the start and end of meetings in the Lobinhos section for ages 6.5 to 11, symbolizes joy in belonging to the pack, equality among members, and dedication to doing one's best under Akela's leadership. Historical adaptations in Brazil reflect international influences, including American models following World War II, when alliances strengthened exchanges in youth education programs, leading to refinements in ceremonial practices amid the country's growing Scouting movement. The jungle themes of Kipling's stories particularly resonate with Brazil's Amazonian imagery, enhancing the ceremony's appeal in a nation rich in biodiversity and evoking local wilderness motifs during pack activities. As of 2025, the Grande Uivo remains a standard opening and closing in urban Lobinhos packs across , though some groups integrate it with contemporary games for engagement, while it continues to feature prominently in national events like the Caçada Nacional.

Other Countries

In Scouts , the Grand Howl serves as a core in Cub packs, performed to open and close every pack meeting as a collective greeting to Akela, symbolizing the Cubs' commitment to doing their best. The organization provides training resources for the ceremony in English and indigenous languages such as Siswati and isiXhosa, supporting its integration across diverse linguistic communities in the post-apartheid era. In , the incorporates the Grand Howl into its program, tracing its origins to the early 20th century when was introduced by British colonial authorities in the 1910s. The ceremony is described in training materials alongside the Cub Promise, , and salute, emphasizing its role in instilling and unity among young members. As of 2025, the Grand Howl continues in World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM)-affiliated groups beyond major English-speaking nations, including simplified versions in European federations like the European Scout Region, where it appears in standard Wolf Cub handbooks. In Asia, it persists in programs such as those of the . The ceremony experiences revival during international gatherings, echoing its historical prominence at events like the in 1920.

Adaptations in Guiding

Brownies' Version

The Brownies' version of the Grand Howl, adapted as the Owl's Call, was introduced in 1918 by Robert Baden-Powell in his handbook Girl Guiding. Agnes Baden-Powell had founded the Rosebuds (later Brownies) section in 1914. Designed for girls aged 7 to 10 in the Girl Guides' Brownie program, this ceremony paralleled the development of the wolf-themed Grand Howl in Cub Scouting but shifted from The Jungle Book's animal motifs to fairy-tale elements, reflecting the Brownie ethos of helpful household sprites inspired by Juliana Horatia Ewing's stories. In the procedure, Brownies form a fairy ring by linking hands and squatting on their heels with arms between their knees and two fingers of each hand touching the ground in salute position. At the signal from the Brownie leader (often Brown Owl), they softly chant "Tu-whit! Tu-whit! Tu-whoo-oo!" while rising slightly and then sinking back; this is repeated twice, with increasing volume and height each time. On the third repetition, they spring to their feet, jump up, clap hands overhead, and end with a loud "Tu-whoo-oo!" and a shriek, standing silent and alert before raising the right hand in salute and calling "We're ready!" to the leader. Early 20th-century instructions, detailed in The Brownie Handbook of the 1920s, stressed performing the Owl's Call with grace, quiet alertness, and precise movements to evoke the watchful nature of , distinguishing it from the boisterous energy of the Cubs' wolf howl. The Brownie Guide Handbook implemented program revisions, including updates to ceremonies, similar to changes in Cub .

Modern Girl Guides Usage

In the United Kingdom, the Owl's Call or Grand Howl is a historical tradition in , with modern ceremonies often using the Brownie Ring, where girls form a circle to recite the Brownie Promise and participate in unifying activities emphasizing community and loyalty. It may be performed occasionally for special events. In , following a 2023 name change from Brownies to Embers for greater inclusivity, retain elements of the Grand Howl tradition in their Embers program (ages 7-8), particularly for welcoming guests or during investitures and ceremonies. This includes collective hooting to build enthusiasm and camaraderie, as described in program resources. Internationally, the Grand Howl or owl-inspired calls see occasional use in Brownie or equivalent programs in organizations like Girl Guides Australia and Girlguiding New Zealand, often at camps or special occasions to foster unity, though handbooks emphasize flexible, interest-led ceremonies over mandatory rituals. In the United States, (GSUSA) use friendship circle or cheer-based opening and closing activities for Brownies that promote inclusivity by focusing on shared values and group participation without animal sounds, reflecting efforts to accommodate diverse backgrounds. Amid pushes for greater inclusivity in global Girl Guiding during the 2020s, some units have adapted into non-gendered formats, such as neutral prompts about loving "adventures" or "friends," to ensure . These modifications historical elements, prioritizing emotional connection. The endures in select units worldwide, especially at camps, to strengthen community bonds.

Cultural and Historical Significance

References in Literature

The Grand Howl, a ceremonial ritual in inspired by Rudyard Kipling's , has been referenced in literature to illustrate themes of childhood, discipline, and social structure. In George Orwell's novel (1935), the Grand Howl is depicted through a satirical lens during a by a fallen clergyman, who recalls the Wolf Cubs delivering the ceremony as part of "Boy Scout orgies," highlighting the rigid regimentation of youth organizations in . The protagonist, Dorothy Hare, serves as captain of the local , suggesting a parallel adaptation for girls akin to the Brownies' version, though the howl itself is tied to the boys' group in the narrative. Mid-20th-century British often portrayed the Grand Howl as a whimsical yet emblematic childhood ritual. Non-fiction works by and about 's founder provide foundational literary descriptions of the Grand Howl. Robert Baden-Powell detailed the ritual in The Wolf Cub's Handbook (), describing it as a pack-gathering ceremony where Cubs imitate wolves calling Akela, emphasizing unity and the . Biographies like Tim Jeal's Baden-Powell: The Heroic Life of the First Chief Scout (1989) analyze the Grand Howl's origins as an innovative element in Baden-Powell's vision for junior , drawing on to foster character development. Literary references to the Grand Howl have become limited in post-2000 works, reflecting its declining prominence in contemporary culture amid evolving youth programs, though occasional nods appear in broader media depictions of British nostalgia.

Legacy in Contemporary Scouting

The Grand Howl remains a staple ceremony in many contemporary Cub Scouting programs worldwide, particularly within organizations affiliated with the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). In the United Kingdom, it is commonly used to open Cub meetings, where participants form a circle around the leader (Akela) and perform a call-and-response sequence emphasizing the Scout Promise and commitment to "do their best," fostering group focus and unity. Similarly, in Canada, the ceremony is integrated into weekly pack meetings as both an opening and closing ritual, incorporating elements like wolf-like howls and salutes drawn from Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book, with detailed instructions provided in current leader resources. In South Africa, it serves as a standard greeting to Akela at the start and end of every pack meeting, reinforcing the Cubs' dedication to their best efforts. Usage is especially prevalent in Commonwealth nations, where traditional Scouting elements persist, though exact global adoption rates are not quantified in recent WOSM reports. Modern challenges have led to adaptations and occasional declines in the Grand Howl's implementation. Time constraints in packed weekly programs and shifts toward activity-based learning, such as STEM-focused challenges, have prompted some packs to shorten or replace the ceremony with simpler alternatives like flag breaks or group cheers to maintain engagement. Inclusivity concerns, particularly regarding noise levels, have also influenced practice; for instance, leaders are advised to offer quieter, mimed versions for neurodiverse participants, such as those with autism, to reduce during the howling element. , while the Grand Howl is defined in official glossaries as a celebratory yell for achievements or meeting closures, its use has evolved alongside broader program changes that de-emphasize the Jungle Book theme in favor of inclusive, adventure-oriented activities. Despite these challenges, the Grand Howl's positive legacy endures by promoting core values like teamwork, respect for leadership, and environmental awareness through its nature-inspired imagery. Recent examples include its feature in 2023 training videos for South African Cub leaders and a 2025 community exhibit celebrating a century of local pack traditions, demonstrating ongoing cultural relevance. Post-COVID, as meetings transitioned to hybrid formats, the ceremony's adaptable structure—requiring minimal space and allowing virtual participation—has supported its continuation in blended in-person and online settings, helping maintain ritualistic bonding during recovery from disruptions. Looking ahead, its thematic ties to and the natural world position it for potential revivals in eco-focused programs, aligning with WOSM's emphasis on .

References

  1. https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/opening-a-cub-meeting/
  2. https://www.scouts.org.uk/about-us/our-history/our-online-exhibitions/scouting-innovations/the-origins-of-the-wolf-cubs/
  3. http://3rdpeel.scouts.im/wp-content/uploads/The_grand_howl-1.pdf
  4. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/236/236-h/236-h.htm
  5. https://www.cmas.nz/site/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Cubs-a-Guide-for-Leaders.pdf
  6. http://scoutguidehistoricalsociety.com/kipling.htm
  7. http://scoutguidehistoricalsociety.com/cubs.htm
  8. https://thedump.scoutscan.com/wolfcubshandbook.pdf
  9. http://www.thedump.scoutscan.com/packscouters.pdf
  10. http://www.thedump.scoutscan.com/starbadge.pdf
  11. https://cms.scouts.org.uk/media/12901/fs295306-milestones-of-scouting.pdf
  12. https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-cub-pack/being-a-cub-section-team-leader/traditions-and-phrases/
  13. http://usscouts.org/bbugle/bb1001.pdf
  14. https://www.scouting.org/resources/los/
  15. https://cubsource.org/trng/CeremoniesforDensPacks.pdf
  16. https://www.scouting.org/program-updates/cub-scout-program-updates-announced/
  17. https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/scouts-canada
  18. https://www.scouts.ca/scoutinglife/wp-content/uploads/all/scouter-manual.pdf
  19. https://www.scouts.ca/scoutinglife/wp-content/uploads/cs/cubs-100-guide-fr.pdf
  20. https://www.scouts.ca/scoutinglife/wp-content/uploads/all/scouter-manual-fr.pdf
  21. https://scouts.com.au/about/what-is-scouting/history/
  22. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/4622397
  23. https://www.utas.edu.au/tasmanian-companion/biogs/E000891b.htm
  24. https://member.scoutsqld.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Cub-Scout-Opening-Closing-Parade-Invest-by-BC-CubScouts.pdf
  25. https://scouts.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ypr3-4-3scoutmethodweb150911-1.pdf
  26. https://scouts.com.au/
  27. https://scouts.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ceremonies_booklet_2020_online.pdf
  28. https://mro.massey.ac.nz/bitstream/handle/10179/4773/02_whole.pdf
  29. https://www.cmas.nz/site/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Cubs-Gold-Booklet.pdf
  30. https://www.escoteiros.org.br/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Escotistas_em_acao_ramo_lobinho.pdf
  31. https://www.escoteiros.org.br/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/os_primeiros_meses_de_uma_nova_alcateia.pdf
  32. https://www.lisbrasil.com/arquivos/Livros2/ApertoDeCanhota.pdf
  33. https://www.escoteiros.org.br/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/alcateia_em_acao.pdf
  34. https://www.escoteiros.org.br/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Boletim_cacada_nacional_2025.pdf
  35. https://scoutwiki.scouts.org.za/wiki/Grand_Howl
  36. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1skShI7J1pQ
  37. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofG0vTggOPs
  38. https://www.bsgindia.org/upload/63c68d0754eca.pdf
  39. https://kvongcmehsanalibrary.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/bsg-monthly-magazine-april-2021.pdf
  40. https://www.fse-scouts.eu/secure/files/stationery/wolfcubhandbook.pdf
  41. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:1st_World_Jamboree_Cubs_Grand_Howl.jpg
  42. http://www.thedump.scoutscan.com/girlguiding.pdf
  43. https://lesliesguidinghistory.com/brownies/
  44. https://lesliesguidinghistory.com/historians-corner/
  45. https://ehive.com/collections/8664/objects/1027536
  46. https://lesliesguidinghistory.com/traditions-badges/
  47. https://www.girlguides.ca/web/Documents/BC/program/FunFinder-feb%25202018%2520Guiding%2520Traditions.pdf
  48. https://www.girlguides.ca/en/girl-guides-of-canada/branch-name-change.html
  49. https://www.girlguides.ca/en/girl-guides-of-canada/inclusivity-and-accessibility/
  50. https://gutenberg.net.au/ebooks02/0200011h.html
  51. https://books.google.com/books/about/Baden_Powell.html?id=q0JnAAAAMAAJ
  52. https://scoutdocs.ca/Documents/Cub_Jungle_Open-Close.php
  53. https://www.thetimes.com/uk/scotland/article/take-care-of-autistic-scouts-leaders-told-6k6jf9dl7
  54. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHwysCGHNlM
  55. https://www.reddit.com/r/scouting/comments/1mg04dy/our_cub_packs_grand_howl_on_display_in_museum/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.