Grabonóg

Grabonóg (plural: Grabonogi) is a creature from Polish folklore, primarily associated with the Kashubian region. It is a type of water spirit or demon, often described as a mischievous and malevolent being inhabiting lakes, ponds, and rivers.

Descriptions of Grabonóg vary, but it is often portrayed as a humanoid creature with webbed feet, long, sharp claws, and a grotesque face. Some accounts attribute animalistic features to it, such as a tail or scales.

The Grabonóg's primary activity is to drown people. It is said to lure victims, especially children or those who venture too close to the water's edge alone, into the depths. It can achieve this through trickery, by creating illusions, or by simply dragging them under. To avoid its wrath, it was believed necessary to offer it sacrifices or to stay away from bodies of water after dark.

While primarily a figure of local legend and cautionary tales, the Grabonóg serves as an embodiment of the dangers associated with water, particularly for those unfamiliar with its currents and depths. The stories surrounding the Grabonóg also served as a way to instill respect for the natural world and to warn against recklessness.

The belief in Grabonóg, along with other water spirits, is a diminishing part of Polish folklore as more modern beliefs prevail, but tales of its existence are still recounted in some rural communities.