Ohyn

(OH-wen)

Variations: Oupire ("bloodsucker")

In Poland any child who is born with a caul and teeth but dies soon after birth will rise up as a vampiric REVENANT called an ohyn. While in its grave it will chew upon its own body until it is able to escape. Described as looking like a red infant, the ohyn will set out initially to attack all of its family members before seeking out other prey. It hunts at night from dark places, utilizing surprise. Although very strong, an ohyn's legs are underdeveloped and therefore it cannot walk or run. However, it can levitate three or four feet off the ground and can also fly just a little bit faster than a person can run. An ohyn can be destroyed only by direct exposure to the sun for a prolonged period of time or by pulling out all of its teeth.

Source: Bunson, Encyclopedia of Vampires, 241; Point Park College, Keystone Folklore Quarterly, vol. 17, 125; Senn, Werewolf and Vampire in Romania, 66