The Huay Chivo is a legendary Mayan beast specific to the Yucatán Peninsula.
Etymology
The name Huay Chivo combines Spanish and Yucatec Mayan terms. Huay or Uay comes from Waay in Yucatec Maya, meaning sorcerer or spirit, while Chivo is Spanish for goat, literally meaning Witch-Goat.
Origin
The Huay Chivo is a local variation of the Mesoamerican Nahual, an evil sorcerer who can transform himself into a supernatural animal, usually a goat, dog or deer, in order to prey upon livestock.
Description
The Huay Chivo is described as a half-man, half-beast creature, with burning red eyes. In recent times it has become associated with the chupacabras.
Sightings
Alleged Huay Chivo activity is sporadically reported in the regional press.
See also
References
- Burchell, Simon (2007) Phantom Black Dogs in Latin America, Heart of Albion Press, ISBN 978-1-905646-01-2