Legend of the Pollo malo (The Evil Chicken)

Legend has it that the Pollo malo (The Evil Chicken) or Pollo maligno is a ghostly apparition that frequently appears in the fields and along the roads of Huila, Colombia. Its arrival is considered an omen of death and bad luck.

According to the legend, this evil spirit—also known as the Pollo del diablo (Devil’s Chicken)—often appears at night when men gather with their friends to play cards, tell jokes, drink alcohol, or womanize.

In most cases, this phantom is described as an invisible entity, known only by its eerie chirp. Whenever this demonic bird’s sound is heard, it serves as an announcement of death. It is said that a high-pitched call signifies the death of a child, while a deep call heralds the death of an adult. Furthermore, the specter despises anyone who mocks or mimics its call. If it catches someone imitating it, the creature will bring misfortune down upon them.

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It is also rumored that if you hear the call of this evil bird very close while on the road, the creature is actually far away. Conversely, if you hear the call from afar, it means the demonic entity is very close, and you must try to escape as quickly as possible. Similarly, if you hear the chirp directly ahead of you, you must avoid continuing on your path at all costs. It is better to turn back, because if you keep moving forward, the Pollo malo will cast its misfortunes upon you.

Some claim to have encountered this phantom face-to-face. They describe the terrifying creature as a bird with vulture wings, a bat’s head, and a rooster’s crest.

Origin of the legend of the Pollo malo (The Evil Bird)

The origin of the Pollo malo might be much older than most people imagine. This demonic being is often considered one of the Colombian basilisks. The basilisk is a creature originating from Greek mythology, initially described as a large snake that killed with its gaze. Over time, as the legend was adapted across various parts of Europe, its characteristics changed. In most later accounts, it was described as a rooster with a toad’s body and a snake’s tail.

Although the characteristics of this basilisk are not entirely identical to those of the Pollo malo, there is no absolute certainty regarding its appearance. The most popular and well-documented version of the Colombian legend describes it as an invisible creature. Considering that the Spanish conquistadors brought much of their culture with them when they arrived in the Americas, it is highly probable that this legend came with them to the New World.

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Another highly plausible origin of the legend lies in its cautionary nature. This demonic chicken punishes anyone it deems to be acting immorally, whether they are unfaithful, an alcoholic, an inveterate gambler, or simply disrespectful. Therefore, the legend may have emerged as a way to instill fear against such bad behavior.

Other versions of the legend of the Pollo malo

In addition to the aforementioned origin stories tying it to the European basilisk, there are other similar creatures mentioned in various parts of the Americas. The Chilean version stands out, featuring a demonic bird that is half-hen and half-reptile, capable of killing a person with a mere glance.

In Caquetá and other regions, it is known as the Pollo de viento (Bird of the Wind).

What does the Pollo malo (The Evil Chicken) look like?

In most Colombian legends, it is said to be invisible, making it incredibly difficult to know its true size and appearance. However, as the tale spread throughout the territory, some versions emerged describing the evil bird as a creature with vulture wings, a bat’s head, and a rooster’s crest.

Where does the Pollo maligno appear?

In Colombia, the Pollo maligno mostly appears in the fields, lonely roads, and forests of Huila, Valle del Cauca, Tolima, and Caquetá.

How to protect yourself from the Pollo malo?

In the legend of the Pollo del diablo (Devil’s Chicken), it is highly recommended to flee immediately upon encountering this evil being. The demonic bird tends to become even angrier if someone tries to pray to it or take any other action against it. If you decide to do something to defend yourself, the creature will cause you to become lost along the path without even realizing it.

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In other versions of the legend, it is said that the following prayer to the Archangel Michael will usually frighten the evil phantom away: “Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls.”