Unlike the traditional werewolf, the Scottish Wulver was not a shape-shifter. Its semi-human, semi-wolf appearance was natural and unchanging.
Covered in a layer of thick brown hair, unlike the actual Werewolf, the Wulver was never human in the first place. In fact, the ancient Celts believed that the Wulver actually evolved from wolves. It was said to be the in-between stage of man and wolf.
There is also another marked difference between the traditional view of a werewolf and that of a Wulver. Whereas a werewolf is a creature to be feared with evil intent. The Wulver is completely the opposite and is noted for having a kind and generous heart.
Taking pity on families that were poor and starving the Wulver would leave a supply of fish on their windowsill thanks to his benevolent side. The same kindness was shown to households with a sick family member, and the Wulver was seen sitting mournfully outside the home of a terminally ill person. The Wulver was frequently spotted out fishing for its daily meal from a rock dubbed, ‘The Wulver’s Stane’ and as long as he was left on his own, a Wulver showed no aggression.
Numerous theories to try and explain the Wulver have been documented. Some accounts say the Wulver is an immortal spirit and modern day theories say that a Wulver could have been suffering from Hypertrichosis, a condition in which the entire body is covered in hair.
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Tales and Creatures from English Folklore
FantasíaTake a journey into the dark world of English mythology. Child snatching hags and black hounds from Hell are just some of the fantastical tales Great Britain has given us.