In the dark lochs and coastal waters of the Scottish Highlands lurks a creature far more dangerous than its freshwater cousin the Kelpie. The Each-Uisge (pronounced “ech-ooshkya”), meaning “water horse” in Scottish Gaelic, is perhaps the most deadly shapeshifter in Celtic mythology—a being that seduces its victims before dragging them to a watery death.
Origins and Habitat
The Each-Uisge haunts the sea lochs, sea inlets, and larger freshwater lochs of Scotland, particularly in the Highlands. Unlike the Kelpie, which prefers rivers and streams, the Each-Uisge claims the deeper, darker waters—places where the bottom cannot be seen and currents run strange and cold.
Appearance and Shapeshifting
The Each-Uisge can assume three forms:
- Horse: A magnificent steed, the most beautiful horse imaginable, often appearing near water's edge
- Handsome Man: A charming young stranger who can be identified by seaweed or water weeds in his hair
- Giant Bird: A great waterfowl in some traditions
In horse form, it can be distinguished from real horses by its constantly dripping mane and the faint scent of sea salt.
The Deadly Hunt
The Each-Uisge's method is terrifyingly effective:
- It appears as a beautiful horse, tempting travelers to ride
- Once mounted, the victim becomes magically adhered to its hide
- The creature races into the deepest water
- The rider is drowned and devoured—all except the liver, which floats to shore as the only remains
Unlike Kelpies, which might be bargained with or escaped, the Each-Uisge shows no mercy once a victim is caught.
Protection
Scottish folklore provides few defenses against the Each-Uisge. Iron can weaken it, and never mounting a strange horse found near deep water is the surest protection. Some stories suggest that calling out the creature's true name could break its power.
Related Creatures
The Each-Uisge is more dangerous than the Kelpie and similar to the Scandinavian Bäckahäst. Compare to the Irish Capall-Uisce and other Celtic water horses.
