Pincoy

The Pincoy is a mythical sea creature from the folklore of the Chilote people, who inhabit the Chiloé Archipelago in southern Chile. He is generally described as a handsome, merman-like being with blonde or golden hair, who is benevolent and associated with fertility and abundance in the sea.

The Pincoy, along with his father Millalobo and mother Huenchula, serves the sea god Caicai Vilu. His primary role is to act as a messenger and to ensure the prosperity of the marine life. He is believed to dance on the beach, and if he dances facing the sea, it signifies that the sea will be abundant in fish and shellfish. Conversely, if he dances facing inland, it foretells scarcity.

He is often depicted wearing a seaweed suit and carrying a trident or staff. Some legends state that he rescues the souls of drowned sailors and brings them to the Caleuche, a mythical ghost ship. The Pincoy is considered a protector of fishermen and is often invoked for a good catch. His female counterpart is the Pincoya.