Matching 50 mythical creatures with each of the 50 states

Oregon: Roc

While there are certain urban legends that surround the state of Oregon which would have you leaning towards a Bigfoot or even a sea creature as the state monster, it is hard to overlook the fact that they have a very fascinating coastal region. While the coast is stunning and worth checking out as a tourist/visitor to the state, in the past, that coast could be a bit treacherous for sailors looking for land. (Images of the coast include rocky protrusions from the sea after all.)

And when it came to finding the perfect monster or mythical creature to represent the state, it was only fitting that we turn to the Roc (also spelled Rukh) of Arabic legend. While this giant bird might not seem like the way to go when talking about Oregon, it actually makes sense if you have ever read Arabian Nights.

In the iconic story, Sinbad’s men end up roasting and eating a Roc egg without Sinbad’s knowledge. When he realizes what has happened, he gathers his men and tries to flee the island where his men have done damage. Unfortunately, the Roc parents return and see what has happened and with their immense talons, they gather large boulders and rocks and drop them on the ship as it is sailing away from the island.

The ship is destroyed and the sailors all perish, except for Sinbad, who is able to cling to a piece of driftwood.

Knowing the story of the Roc and its role in Arabian Nights, it was only fitting that this majestic bird is the representative of the state of Oregon and its gorgeous, if sometimes deadly, coast.