Boobrie

The boobrie is a generally malevolent mythological shapeshifting entity said to inhabit lochs on Scotland's west coast. It usually appears as a gigantic water bird resembling a cormorant or great northern diver, but may also take forms including a water bull, water horse, or large insect. It preys on livestock carried by ship and eats otters. Folklorist Campbell of Islay suggested that accounts may derive from sightings of the great auk.

Classification

Mythological shapeshifting entity

Common appearance

Gigantic water bird resembling a cormorant or great northern diver

Possible origin

Speculated to be based on great auk sightings