Kaupe : The Hawaiian Werewolf

Kaupe

Introduction

In Hawaiian mythology, the malevolent spirit known as Kaupe is known to call out to people at night to scare them into committing suicide. According to legend, he once ruled the Nu’uanu Valley and devoured people on both Oahu and Maui. When he went back to Hawaii, he abducted the son of a high chief and brought him back to Oahu so that he could be sacrificed.

After they reached Oahu, the High chief learned about a Kahuna who taught him about incantations and a prayer he could use against Kaupe, who was chasing them. At the heiau in Lihue, the father saved his son, and when Kaupe chased them with the latter repeating the prayer, causing the pair to run faster. As Kaupe chased them, the father and his son hid behind a rock. On reaching Hawaii, the father and son killed Kaupe. The spirit of Kaupe continues to linger on Oahu.

Physical Traits

The mythological creature is described as an enormous man with large claws and a muscular build. It has tribal tattoos all over its body, and its sharp teeth are used to scare potential attackers and prey. Its sharp teeth are also used to bite the flesh of its prey.

Family

In ancient Hawaii, there was a group of people known as Olohe, who were mostly known for their bone breaking and wrestling skills. Their leader, known as Kaupe, was able to transform into a giant dog due to his powerful powers. He would stalk and kill people until he was killed by the father-son duo. Now, he is known as a ghost dog haunting the islands.

Powers and Abilities

The powerful abilities of Kaupe allow it to overpower its prey and enemies, as well as break through metal cuffs. It can also jump high and smell the scent of its pursuers. Its sense of smell helps it distinguish between potential attackers and those around it. If it scratches a human, it can cause an infection which could never heal leading to death.

Kaupe is often regarded as a calling ghost because instead of looking for his victims, he calls them out. He does this by imitating the sound of dying or wounded people. When his victim runs to the aid of others, Kaupe silently enters the scene and reveals himself.

Modern Day Influence

In the television series Legends of Tomorrow, one of the creatures that can be considered a hairy beast is the Kaupe named Konane.