Because there’s no sea creature that looks like a fish head with human legs. Manatees look like human torsos with fish legs. If you see a manatee from above the water, you’ll understand why a sailor might think they saw a mermaid. All mythological creatures sort of resemble real animals.
Yeah, in reality, mythological creatures often borrow traits from real animals. Sailors were seeing manatees or dugongs from above round head, arm-like flippers, a swishing tail and their brains filled in the rest. Add months at sea, bad lighting, and a little wishful thinking… and suddenly, mermaids exist.
Because there’s no sea creature that looks like a fish head with human legs. Manatees look like human torsos with fish legs. If you see a manatee from above the water, you’ll understand why a sailor might think they saw a mermaid. All mythological creatures sort of resemble real animals.
Yeah, in reality, mythological creatures often borrow traits from real animals. Sailors were seeing manatees or dugongs from above round head, arm-like flippers, a swishing tail and their brains filled in the rest. Add months at sea, bad lighting, and a little wishful thinking… and suddenly, mermaids exist.