Ye Olde Scot - the Celtic culture channel.
Dark Celtic History - Nuckelavee
In the Celtic nations, there are a number of mythological creatures that share the land and waters with humankind. Some are benign, others avoid their human neighbors at all costs. Probably they are the most sensible of all, because of all the creatures of the world humans appear to cause the most harm and trouble. Other entities in folklore can be only be seen or heard at times of impending tragedy. But there are those creatures who appear strongly in traditional beliefs, those that strike fear into the heart of all who encounter them.
Once such creature exists around the seas of Orkney Islands, just north of Scotland. Known by the name Nuckelavee, which is derived from the Orcadian word knoggelvi, meaning "Devil of the Sea". Accounts vary in regard to the appearance of the Nuckelavee, A hybrid of a man and horse-like creature with horrifically strong Viking influences, it appears to be a fusion of Celtic mythology and a dark Norse legend.
The Nuckelavee is described as having a head and torso in the shape of a man but with a huge head and a large mouth protruding out like that of a pig. The creature had one single red eye that burned like fire. It had a man's torso attached to a horse's back but with long arms that could reach the ground. To add to the horror of his appearance the creature is without hair and skin. A raw body where his black blood can be seen coursing through his veins, and every pulsating muscle taught and ready to pounce. Its intention towards all humans who crossed his path is completely malevolent, bordering on downright evil.
