Tradition: Chinese mythology
Alternative Names: Jidiao, 吉弔
Category: Dragon, Turtle
The Myth
Jidiao has the body and shell of a turtle, but its head resembles that of a dragon or snake. Its legs resemble the feet of a bird, with four toes. It is an aquatic creature, though it can also live among trees.
Jidiao is said to live in southern China, particularly around Guangdong and Guangxi, and in areas near the border with Vietnam. It inhabits places near water as well as forests.
According to one tradition, when a dragon lays eggs, it produces two eggs. One hatches into a dragon, while the other becomes a Jidiao. Another account says that a dragon produces three eggs, one of which becomes a Jidiao.
The Jidiao has an unusually long head and tail, so that they cannot both be withdrawn completely into its turtle shell.
Ancient accounts also describe a special fat or oil obtained from the Jidiao. This substance was said to be extremely light and capable of penetrating materials more effectively than clarified butter. It was collected in containers, with eggshells said to be the only vessels that would not allow it to leak through. The fat was used medicinally against poisonous swellings and injuries caused by leeches.
Sources
“吉弔 (Jídiào).” Chinese Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed September 19, 2026. https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%90%89%E5%BC%94