L is for Leshy

“The Leshy is a male woodland spirit in Slavic mythology believed to protect wild animals and the forests. They usually appear as tall men, but have the ability to change size and shapeshift into any form, animal or plant. Leshies have beards made of living grass and vines, and are often depicted with a tail, hooves, and horns. The Leshy has pale white skin and dark green eyes. They are the lords of the forest and hold close bonds with gray wolves, bears, and all animal life.

 

 

When a leshy is in human form it looks like a common peasant, although its eyes glow. The creatures can shrink themselves to the height of a blade of grass or grow to the size of the tallest trees. It is commonly understood that leshies will lead peasants astray, make people sick, and even tickle them to death. The creatures are terribly mischievous and have horrible cries. However, Leshies can also imitate human voices and often times lure lost wanderers to their caves. They aren’t always evil, but enjoy misguiding humans and kidnapping young women.”1

But “don’t fret, as soon as you realize you’re being duped by a Leshy, just turn your clothes inside out and wear your shoes on the wrong feet. That’s the only way to escape him.”2

 

Bibliography

1 http://listverse.com/2009/10/26/10-mythological-creatures-and-shapeshifters/

2 http://flavorwire.com/222406/10-terrifying-mythical-creatures-you-didnt-know-to-be-afraid-of/7/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leshy