Cù-sìth

The cù-sìth(e) (Scottish Gaelic pronunciation: [kʰuː ˈʃiː]), plural coin-shìth(e) (Scottish Gaelic pronunciation: [kʰɔɲ ˈhiː]) is a mythical hound found in Irish folklore and Scottish folklore.[1][2] In Irish folklore it is spelled cú sídhe, and it also bears some resemblance to the Welsh Cŵn Annwn.

The cù-sìth is thought to make its home in the clefts of rocks[1] and to roam the moors of the Highlands. It is usually described as having a shaggy, dark green coat[3][4] and being as large as a small cow.[5][6]

According to legend, the creature was capable of hunting silently, but would occasionally let out three terrifying barks, and only three, that could be heard for miles by those listening for it, even far out at sea. Those who hear the barking of the Cù-Sìth must reach safety by the third bark or be overcome with terror to the point of death.[1]

See also

References
  1. Campbell, J. G. (1900). Superstitions of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland: Collected Entirely from Oral Sources. Maclehouse. pp. 141–144.
  2. MacKillop, James (2004). A Dictionary of Celtic Mythology. Oxford University Press. doi:10.1093/acref/9780198609674.001.0001. ISBN 9780198609674.
  3. Briggs, Katharine (1978). The Vanishing People Fairy Lore and Legends. Pantheon Books. p. 195. ISBN 9780394737409.
  4. Shaw, Carol (1997). Scottish Myths and Customs. HarperCollins. pp. 161–162. ISBN 9780004721149.
  5. Summers, Gilbert (1991). Walkers Traditions of Scotland. Martin. p. 155. ISBN 9780859417082.
  6. Matthews, John; Matthews, Caitlin (1995). British & Irish Mythology An Encyclopedia of Myth and Legend. Diamond Books. p. 55. ISBN 9780261666511.


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