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Púca
A shape-shifting Irish spirit. It might appear as a horse, a goblin, or a rabbit. The Púca can help or harm. After November 1st, all crops belong to it. Beware the wild ride of the Púca.
Ancient - Present
Ireland
1000+ witnesses
The Púca (or Pooka) is a shape-shifting creature from Irish folklore, capable of both helping and harming humans.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Púca:
- Is a shape-shifter
- Can appear as various animals
- Most often a horse
- Can be helpful or harmful
- Rules the night
Forms
The Púca can appear as:
- A black horse with golden eyes
- A goblin or small human
- A rabbit
- A goat
- An eagle
- Various other forms
Behavior
The Púca may:
- Offer wild rides through the countryside
- Give advice or prophecy
- Destroy crops (after Samhain)
- Play tricks on travelers
- Occasionally help farmers
Samhain
After November 1st:
- All unharvested crops belong to the Púca
- It’s dangerous to eat them
- This marks the end of harvest
- The Púca becomes more active
The Ride
If mounted:
- The Púca takes you on a wild ride
- Through dangerous terrain
- Eventually returns you
- Usually unharmed but terrified
Related Creatures
Similar to:
- Welsh Pwca
- Cornish Bucca
- English Puck (Shakespeare’s)