The Each-Uisge: Water Horse of Scotland

The Each-Uisge (Scottish Gaelic for “water horse”) is a supernatural creature from Scottish folklore, far more dangerous than its cousin the kelpie. This shapeshifter lures victims to their deaths in the lochs and seas of the Highlands.

The Legend

The Each-Uisge can appear as a beautiful horse, a handsome man, or a giant bird. In horse form, it tempts travelers to mount it, then plunges into the nearest loch, drowning and consuming the victim. Only the liver washes ashore.

The Difference from Kelpies

While kelpies inhabit rivers and streams, the Each-Uisge lives in lochs and the sea. It is considered far more dangerous. A kelpie victim might escape if they can remove the bridle; the Each-Uisge shows no such mercy.

The Locations

Each-Uisge have been reported in lochs throughout the Highlands. Loch Ness, famous for its monster, has its own water horse traditions. Some believe that Nessie sightings are actually glimpses of the Each-Uisge in its natural form.

The Sightings

While fewer modern sightings occur than with Nessie, occasional reports describe horse-like creatures in Highland lochs. Witnesses describe beautiful horses that seem to shimmer and change, matching traditional descriptions of the Each-Uisge.

The Warning

Traditional stories served as warnings to children about the dangers of water. The Each-Uisge’s ability to appear as a handsome man may have warned young women about dangerous strangers.

Assessment

The Each-Uisge represents the deadly power of Scottish waters made manifest. Whether genuine supernatural entity or folk memory, it remains one of Scotland’s most terrifying legendary creatures.