DOBHAR-CHÚ

ORIGIN: Irish folklore

The Dobhar-Chú, also known as the "King Otter" or the "Water Hound," is a creature from Irish folklore, associated with the lakes and rivers of County Leitrim. 

This aquatic beast is described as a monstrous, dog-like creature with dark black fur resembling an otter, but way larger.

Sometimes it is said to be the size of a crocodile, but in all it is known to have sharp claws and teeth that can rip through flesh without much effort.

The most well-known story about the Dobhar-Chú dates back to 1722 in the town of Glenade, Leitrim. 

According to legend, a woman named Grace Connolly was washing clothes by the lake when the creature attacked and killed her. 

Her husband, Terence, discovered her lifeless, mutilated body with the beast lying on top of her. 

Enraged, he stabbed the creature with a dagger, but as it died, it let out an ear-splitting screech, summoning its mate to help it. 

The second Dobhar-Chú emerged from the water and chased Terence, forcing him to fight for his life. 

In the end, he killed the second beast as well.

Even today, locals believe the Dobhar-Chú— maybe its relatives or grown children— still lives beneath the waters, ready to drag the more unalert victims to a watery grave.