5 Irish Creatures That Are Cooler Than the Leprechaun

The Fomorians, as depicted by John Duncan (1912)

Many people know the leprechaun as the mascot-creature of St. Patrick's Day. However, there are a couple more less-known creatures that are associated with this wonderfully green holiday.

1. Clurichaun

The clurichaun, pronounced “kloo’-ra-kahn,” is known as the “cooler” version of the leprechaun! These two beings are extremely similar, so similar that the two get mixed up quite often. The clurichaun is a more party-loving version of the leprechaun. It is said they love their wine much more than their gold. Ancient legends say that if you treat the clurichaun with respect, then they will guard your house and any supply of alcohol you have. All in all, this is a very funny, party-loving creature that is sure to make you laugh.

2. The Pooka

At number two is the pooka! This hilarious little shapeshifter even has its own harvest day on November 1st! The pooka is a shapeshifting tricker that usually takes the form of a domestic animal. While usually harmless and funny, they are said to be mischievous when messed with. The pooka takes the form of a large black horse with glowing eyes most of the time; however they are also known to take the form of dogs and cats. If you are kind, they give you kind words of advice and prophecies. If treated unfairly or poorly, they eat all your crops and destroy some of your property!

3. Cait Sìth

Coming in on the list at number three is the cait sith. The cait sith is definitely the cutest on the list of Irish creatures. It is described as an all black cat with one white spot on its chest. They are said to be as big as a large dog! The creature purportedly comes around people who are close to death to give them comfort through their time in pain. The cait sith is believed to bless any household who leaves a small saucer of milk. If you don't leave a portion of milk for the sweet cat like being, it is said to make all your cows’ milk go dry.

4. Fomorians

Fomorians are probably the funniest thing on this list. They are not supposed to be dangerous creatures - they just look quite terrifying! Fomorians are often described as disgusting looking supernatural giants coming from the sea. They range from looking like a giant sardine with legs to a sunfish with legs instead of fins. Irish tales say that these creatures were the first to settle in Ireland, soothing the land and making it bearable for future settlers.

5. Selkie

The selkie! These weird mythological sea creatures are said to live as seals in the water, but then shapeshift into humans, shedding their seal skin as they come to shore. Very similar to the mermaid, they are often described as incredibly handsome or beautiful. Selkies have often been rumored to lure humans to the water, never to return. Likewise, humans have been said to romanticize selkies to the point of hiding their seal skin so they can never return to the sea.