Baobhan Sith

Pronounced: Buhvan shee

ORIGIN:

Scotland

Baobhan Sith are spirits of the Scottish Highlands. Their name literally means “Fairy Women” or “Women of the Sidhe” and so is cognate with Banshee, but they are very different spirits. Unlike Banshees, Baobhan Sith are killers, sometimes called Scottish vampires.

Baobhan Sith love to dance all night. According to some legends, they seduce men, dance with them, and then kill them, draining them of their blood. It’s difficult to determine whether this is their true nature or whether these legends were invented post-Christianity to discourage potential devotees from joining the Fairy’s dance. The Baobhan Sith’s favourite victims are hunters out on the moors. They may be deer goddesses punishing those who’ve hunted without performing correct rituals. Alternatively, they’re just dancing vampires.

Manifestations:

They manifest as beautiful women usually, but not always, dressed in green. The true clue to their identity is in their feet. Rather than human feet, these ladies sport deer hooves. They are shape-shifters: be prepared to be surprised.

Sacred birds: Hooded crows or ravens

COLOUR:

Green

SEE ALSO:

Aisha Qandisha; Banshee; Sidhe; Vila

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.