I’ve been talking a lot lately about water-related creatures: just a few weeks ago it was selkies, and before that came mermaids. But for those who get my newsletter or have read the first of the Carousel Capers, the real Creature of the month is the kelpie!

Like the selkie, the kelpie is originally from Scottish folklore and is said to live in or around water. The similarities end there, though. While selkies are generally reputed to be good or at least neutral, kelpies are dangerous creatures, often appearing in lakes and streams. They can shapeshift, appearing as beautiful horses (or humans with hooved feet). Using this power, kelpies lure unsuspecting victims close to the water’s edge and then pull them under.

The kelpie has cultural counterparts across the world. Here are just a few:

  • caballo marino chilote (Chile): also have an association with wizards. These feature prominently in the first Carousel Caper story!
  • hippocampus (Greece): not quite as evil, this is usually depicted as half horse-half fish.
  • nixie (Germany): also known as a “river mermaid.”
  • bunyip (Australia): versions of the creature are recognized across the continent; they’re said to dwell in swamps and rivers.

Whether it’s half or full horse, in salt water or sea water, the kelpie is usually meant as a warning. “Don’t let your eyes deceive you! Don’t get too close to the water’s edge!” And while those are very sensible ideas, I still find it hard to resist the kelpie’s beauty! 🙂

Selected Sources

Johnson, Ben. “The Kelpie.” Historic UK, here.

In addition, many collections of Scottish folklore contain a story about the kelpie! You can also look up other versions of the creature online.