Tradition / Region: Austrian Mythology
Alternative names: Bluatschink, Bluetschinke, Plutschinke
Category: Bear
The Myth
The Blutschink is a fearsome demonic water spirit from the folklore of Tyrol and South Tyrol. Its name is often interpreted as “Blood Foot,” although some traditions suggest it ultimately derives from an older Slavic water demon. It is known as a dangerous creature that dwells near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, where it preys upon unsuspecting humans.
The Blutschink has the upper body of a shaggy, coal-black bear, while its lower body consists of powerful human legs. Its bare legs are stained blood-red and are said to drip constantly with blood, giving the creature its terrifying appearance.
According to tradition, the Blutschink attacks people by first draining the blood from its victims before devouring them. Because of this gruesome habit, it was greatly feared by those living near rivers and streams.
In South Tyrol, the legend expanded beyond waterways. There, the Blutschink was also believed to lurk among bean fields and poppy fields, waiting to seize and eat children who wandered too far from home. As a result, stories of the Blutschink were often told as warnings to keep children away from dangerous places where the monster was thought to hide.
Sources
Wikipedia-Autoren. (o. D.). Blutschink. In Wikipedia. Abgerufen am 29. Juni 2026, von https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blutschink