Habergeiss

(HABBER-gies)

Variations: Schrattl, Ziegenmelker

A vampiric demon from Serbia, the habergeissis a three-legged, birdlike creature. It uses its shape-shifting ability to appear like various types of animals. In its disguised form it attacks cattle during the night to feed off their blood. The cry of the habergeiss is considered to be a death omen.

Source: Folkard, Plant Lore, 84; Friend, Flowers and

Flower Lore, vol. 1, 64; Hillman, Pan and the Nightmare, 127; Jones, On the Nightmare, 108; Róheim, Riddle of the Sphinx, 55