Dobhar-chú

The Dobhar-chú (Irish pronunciation: [ˈd̪ˠoːɾˠxuː]), meaning "water dog" or "water hound" in Irish, is a mysterious creature from Irish and Scottish folklore. Also known as the "King Otter," this legendary beast inhabits bodies of water and resembles both a dog and an otter, sometimes characterized as half-dog, half-fish. According to folklore, it's approximately five times larger than a normal otter, measuring between 10–15 feet (3.0–4.6 m) in length, with a distinctive white pelt, black ear tips and a black cross-shaped marking on its back, though its coat may appear darker due to the murky waters it inhabits. Very few written records document the Dobhar-chú, as its legend has been preserved primarily through oral storytelling. One of the most famous tales dates to 1722, when Grace McGloighlin (née Connolly) was allegedly killed by the creature at Glenade Lough while washing clothes. According to the legend, her husband Terrence discovered her mutilated body with the Dobhar-chú sleeping atop her remains, retrieved a dagger, and killed the beast, which let out a whistling cry that summoned its mate. After a fierce battle, Terrence successfully slayed the second creature as well.