Lavellan

In the folklore of northern Scotland dwells a creature of fearsome reputation known as the Lavellan (also called làbh-allan, la-mhalan, or la-bhallan). This enigmatic being occupies the misty boundary between natural and supernatural in Highland traditions.

While commonly classified among rodents—with the name "làbh-allan" also serving as the Scottish Gaelic term for water shrews and water voles—the legendary Lavellan was reportedly much larger than an ordinary rat. According to local accounts, this creature made its home in the deep, dark pools of northern Scottish rivers, where it was considered exceptionally dangerous.

The Lavellan's most remarkable attribute was its alleged toxic nature. Highland folklore claimed this creature possessed extraordinary poisonous abilities, reportedly capable of harming cattle from distances exceeding one hundred feet—a power that inspired both fear and fascination among rural communities.

Historical references to the Lavellan appear in several notable sources. Fleming, in his description of the Ermine, drew parallels between prejudices against that animal and Sibbald's documentation of country people's aversion to the Lavellan. Sibbald himself recorded that the creature was commonly found in Caithness. The renowned naturalist Thomas Pennant conducted his own investigations regarding this mysterious animal while visiting Ausdale in the county. Further cultural significance is evidenced by the Lavellan's mention in the works of Rob Donn, the celebrated Scottish Gaelic poet from Sutherland.

Interestingly, Pennant documented that locals preserved the Lavellan's skin for medicinal purposes. In a curious healing practice, they would dip the preserved skin in water and then administer this water to ailing livestock as a curative treatment—transforming the feared toxicity of the living creature into a healing property after death.