Kelpie

The Kelpie is a mythical creature found in Scottish folklore. It is a shape-shifting creature with the ability to transform itself into a horse or a human form. However, the Kelpie is mostly known for its horse form, with its smooth coat and shimmering, soul-piercing eyes which reflect the deep waters of Scottish lochs, and it is often referred to as the “water horse.”

According to Scottish legend, the Kelpie was known to lure unsuspecting travelers, particularly children, to their doom by offering them rides on its back. Once the victim was on the horse’s back, it would gallop into the water, dragging the person down to the depths of the loch where they would drown.

The Kelpie is believed to inhabit lochs and rivers throughout Scotland, with the most famous being Loch Ness, home to the infamous Nessie. However, unlike Nessie, the Kelpie is not considered a friendly creature, and legend has it that it will return to haunt the living, particularly those who dare to trespass on its territory.

Despite its menacing reputation, there are stories of those who have been able to tame the Kelpie, particularly through the use of charms or spells. In some tales, the Kelpie is even said to have assisted farmers by ploughing their fields, although this is viewed as a rare occurrence.

The Kelpie has also been depicted in Scottish folklore as a symbol of power, particularly in the realm of water. In some tales, the Kelpie is portrayed as a guardian of the waters, with the ability to control the winds and waves.

In Scottish art and literature, the Kelpie has been portrayed in various forms. The most common depiction shows a horse with a smooth coat and dark eyes, often emerging from the water with its mane and tail flying in the wind. Other depictions include a human form or a combination of both human and horse, with webbed fingers and feet, and a fish-like tail.

The Kelpie has been the subject of many Scottish stories and legends, with some considering it a symbol of Scotland’s rich and mysterious history. The creature’s presence in Scotland’s folklore has led to the creation of various tourist attractions, including parks and museums dedicated to the Kelpie.

In 2013, two statues of the Kelpie were erected near Falkirk in Scotland, standing 98 feet tall and weighing 300 tonnes each. The statues, designed by artist Andy Scott, are said to represent the traditional Kelpie form, combining the power and mystery associated with the creature.

The Kelpie continues to be a popular subject in Scottish folklore, with new stories and legends emerging each year. While the creature remains a symbol of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage, it also serves as a reminder of the danger that lurks beneath the waters of Scotland’s lochs and rivers.