MEET THE FAIRIES OF CELTIC LORE
Read below to learn more about the most famous fairies in generations past and present. These fairies are usually seen as tricksters, but can also be signs of warning to the people that see them.
THE IRISH BANSHEE
Legends call her the bringer of death. The Banshee is known in folklore as a woman that is extremely pale with white hair. If seen, she is sometimes wearing the bloodstained clothes of the person that is soon to die. The Banshee can be heard wailing, but usually only by the person soon to die, or by a relative of that person.
THE LEPRECHAUN
Leprechauns are some of the newest fairies in this group, but are arguably the most famous worldwide. These little men are known as tiny earth fairies that are exceptional shoe makers. They tend to take and hide treasure, but are sometimes seen as luck bringing creatures and are therefore the most likeable fairies.
THE POOKA
The Pooka or Puca, is a shapeshifting spirit that is said to take on many forms. It is frequently illustrated as a horse or rabbit creature, but can become anything from a cat or donkey, to a human. It is said to be a mischievous fairy, sometimes trampling crops on farmers land. But the Pooka is also said to give warning before devastating events, only to disappear and watch the chaos ensue if it's warning is not heeded, from it's hiding place in nature.
THE DULLAHAN
This fairy is a rather macabre one depicted as a headless horseman. Legends say he rides his horse at night, using his own head that is glowing as a lantern to light his way. He can see through the eyes of his detached head and into the homes of dying men. The weapon he carries is a human spine, turned into a whip.
CHANGELINGS
These little fairy babies are the result of trickster fairies pranking humans. When fairy babies are weak and sick, fairies will seek out a healthy human baby of the same age. The fairies will then swap the human baby out for the sick fairy baby, leaving humans to care for the fey child instead of their own baby. These fairy children that are left behind are known as the changelings.