lohduttavampi

Lohtuduttavampi, also known as the "Finnish vampire" or *vampire bat*, is a folkloric creature from Finnish mythology, closely associated with the vampire legends prevalent in Baltic and Slavic traditions. Unlike the more widely known Western vampire, lohtuduttavampi is typically depicted as a malevolent spirit or undead being that preys on the living, particularly through nocturnal visits to homes.

The name *lohtuduttavampi* combines the Finnish word *lohtudut* (meaning "consoling" or "soothing") with *vampi* (vampire), suggesting a deceptive charm used to lure victims. Finnish vampire lore often describes these entities as shapeshifters, capable of appearing as ordinary people or animals during the day. They were believed to feed on blood, causing illness or death to their victims, and were sometimes linked to curses or misfortune.

Regional variations exist, with some tales portraying lohtuduttavampi as a restless dead person, while others associate them with witches or supernatural beings tied to nature. Protection against these creatures involved rituals such as driving stakes into the ground, reciting prayers, or using iron objects. In some stories, the vampire’s body could be destroyed by decapitation or burning, similar to other European vampire myths.

The concept of lohtuduttavampi reflects broader Nordic folklore themes, blending elements of fear, death, and the unknown. While not as prominently featured in modern media as other vampire archetypes, it remains a fascinating part of Finnish cultural heritage, illustrating how local traditions adapted global supernatural motifs.