In Scottish folklore, the each-uisge is a legendary water horse known for its ominous presence in the Highlands. The term each-uisge translates to “water horse” in Scottish Gaelic, with its Irish counterpart referred to as each-uisace, or Ech-Ushkya, and the cabyll-ushtey being the equivalent found on the Isle of Man. This formidable creature is renowned for being one of Britain’s most perilous water entities, residing in both the ocean and freshwater lochs. It is often mistakenly conflated with the Kelpie, another water spirit, but Kelpies inhabit rivers and streams and are considered less perilous than the each-uisge.
The Nature of the Each-Uisge
The each-uisge possesses the remarkable ability to transform its form, appearing as an exquisite horse, a massive bird, or even a handsome man. Individuals who mount it in its horse form initially feel safe while on dry land, but the moment the creature senses water, the rider becomes permanently attached to its back. The each-uisge then plunges into the depths of a loch, where it drowns its captive and feasts upon their remains, leaving only the liver to float to the surface.
Transformation into a Human
When adopting human shape, the each-uisge manifests as an extraordinarily attractive man, distinguishable only by the aquatic weeds entwined in his hair. For this reason, the Highlanders remained vigilant whenever they encountered a solitary horse or unfamiliar stranger near water, particularly in areas rumored to be the creature’s territory. The each-uisge is also known to prey on livestock such as cattle and sheep, lured by the tantalizing aroma of roasted meat.
The Blacksmith’s Tale
According to a narrative recounted in the collection “More West Highland Tales” by McKay, a blacksmith’s daughter from Raasay fell victim to the each-uisge. Seeking vengeance, the blacksmith and his son forged large iron hooks and ventured to the beast’s domain by the loch with a roasted sheep. They heated the hooks until glowing red, awaiting the creature’s approach. As night descended, the enticing scent of roast mutton wafted across the water, enshrouded in a thick mist. The each-uisge emerged from the depths, attempting to snatch the meat, only to be attacked by the blacksmith and his son, who pierced its flesh with the hot hooks. After a fierce struggle, they succeeded in vanquishing the beast, leaving only a viscous residue behind come dawn.
A Guardian of the Waters
Some interpretations hold that the each-uisge serves as a guardian spirit of the watery passage to the afterlife, where ancestors reside. Its role is to assess the worthiness of those it encounters, with survival promising a passage to the underworld to unite with forebears.
