Who are Scotland's Clan Chiefs?

[Nathan]

Women cannot be clan chiefs under traditional clan law I thought. If no suitable male heir is available then the chief is meant to be chosen from within a male kingroup, the derbfine. It's the principle of tanistry which is how the Gaels of Ireland and Scotland selected their leaders. The reasoning in part is that clan names are taken from a supposed male ancestor, they can't be conferred from the female line though I suppose adoption is a possibility.

That's no longer the strict practice of succession. the Chief of Clan Elliott is female.

[Mike S]

That's no longer the strict practice of succession. the Chief of Clan Elliott is female.

Elizabeth, Countess of Sutherland is the chief of clan Sutherland as well.