Sea monsters and mermaids in Scottish folklore: Can these tales give us information on the historic occurrence of marine animals in Scotland?

Abstract

The folklore of the highlands and islands of Scotland includes many stories about sightings of sea monsters and mermaids. However, several of these stories contain descriptions of unusual features that are also distinct characteristics of living marine animals, notably manatees (Trichechus spp.), leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) and several cetacean species, including the narwhal (Monoceros monoceros). It is suggested that an analysis of folklore could provide information on the historical distribution and occurrence of certain distinctive marine animal species.