Tradition: Romani Mythology, Romanian Mythology
Alternative Names: Losholich, Locsholich, Lobolich, Luca
Category: Goblin
The Myth
The Losholich is a terrifying forest spirit in Romani folklore, described as a shaggy, toothy goblin with long, drooping ears. It inhabits remote wildernesses, including deep forests and caves, where careless travelers risk encountering it. Its appearance is grotesque and frightening, with coarse hair, sharp teeth, and an unsettling presence. Some accounts describe its ears hanging down to its shoulders, its arms reaching toward the ground, and its long fingers ending in sharp claws.
The Losholich is portrayed as a dangerous and unpredictable creature that attacks those who enter its territory. It may conceal itself among trees or emerge from the darkness to frighten or assault unsuspecting travelers. One account describes it as having a greenish fire burning inside its body, which it fans with its long arms and legs, using its movements to make the flames burn brighter. Its strange appearance and association with the wilderness make it a fearsome presence in the forest.
Despite its monstrous nature, the Losholich can sometimes be overcome through cleverness. According to one tradition, a person may defeat it by cutting the hair from its feet. If the hair is removed, the creature loses its power and dies. However, it is said to return in another form, suggesting that destroying its physical body does not necessarily end its supernatural existence.
Some stories describe the Losholich as a servant of the devil, while others portray it as a creature that can be compelled to perform tasks. In one account, it helps a cruel countess transplant an enormous oak tree from the forest to her courtyard. Although the spirit accomplishes the seemingly impossible task, its assistance does not make it benevolent. The Losholich remains a dangerous being associated with sinister powers, threatening wilderness, and misfortune.
Sources
“Losholich.” New Bestiary (Bestiary.us). https://www.bestiary.us/losholich