Complete Bestiary

Á Bao A Qu - This creature resembles a mound of glowing blue sludge, and will silently follow the inhabitants of dark and decrepit buildings. It feeds on the energy that the person spends whilst walking, therefore acting as a parasite, and uses this energy to slowly gain a more solid form. Aamon - Known as a fearsome Prince of Hell in Occult lore, this powerful demon resembles a large serpent with the head of an owl and the claws of a mighty wolf, and is usually seen to spew unholy flame. It rules forty different legions of demons, and is capable of procuring knowledge of all things to magic users that summon it, as well as reconciling friends and enemies. Due to its similar name, it is often confused with an ancient Egyptian deity. Aasimar - Often confused with nephilim, these beings are born from those with angelic blood in their extended family, and resemble physically beautiful humans with charismatic personalities. They are capable of telepathy and empathy, and often follow religious paths because of their celestial ancestry. Although they are naturally inclined towards benevolence, there are several individuals who have become corrupted by use of dark magic. Their existence was first discovered in the process of writing modern fantasy literature, which implies that they are a recently-evolved species. Aatxe - These bovine creatures are described in the mythology and folklore of the Basque people, and are said to dwell in deep caves. They will, however, rise from these places in stormy weather, and assume the form of a young man in order to attack criminals and other malevolent people. Aau - Standing guard at the end of the corridor in the Fifth Division (also known as Arit) of Duat, the Ancient Egyptian Underworld, this terrifying creature resembles an undead humanoid mummy with the head of a jackal, and is considered to be demonic in nature. The entrance to the corridor is guarded by the great serpent known as Teka-Hra, and the other end is stood watch over by another demonic mummy called Tekemiaau. If the souls of the deceased survive these tests, they will be judged. Aaurata - Described as having heads that shine like gold in medieval European manuscripts, these very rare fish are found in the oceans and seas surrounding Europe, but are likely either endangered or extinct nowadays because of how little is known about them. Some have speculated that they may be able to reflect light off their golden heads to blind potential aggressors, but this is not confirmed to be true or false because only one sentence is available about them in medieval literature. Abaasy - Hungarian demons, these monsters are said to be the evil spirits of long dead humans, that now stalk graveyards and travel around causing destruction and plagues. They feed on peoples' souls and give the living diseases, but can be appeased through use of blood sacrifice rituals. Abābīl‎ - Flying in enormous flocks or swarms, these small birds resemble sparrows or similar animals, but are notable for their ability to produce and drop large quantities of rocks and stones down onto those that invade their territory. According to ancient Islamic texts, they did just this when an enormous army laid siege to one of their nesting areas. Abada - Despite resembling gazelles, these African animals are actually bizarre rodents that have somehow adapted to have curled horns and deer-like legs. They are said to resemble small donkeys with tails like those of wild boars, and to have some sort of nondescript magical ability. If ground into a powder and used in a solution, their horns can cure many ills. Abaddon - Controlling an army of apocalypse locusts and associated with heralding the Biblical end of days, this powerful devil is said to have possession of the 'key to the Abyss', which allows it to throw its victims into the darkest depths of Hell. It is said that it was once a fallen angel, and that it was the one who bound Lucifer and imprisoned him in the Underworld. Abaia - Dwelling at the bottom of freshwater lakes in Fiji and the surrounding islands, these massive eels consider all organisms in the lake to be their children, and will viciously attack those who harm them. Anyone who eats fish from lakes in which these creatures lurk will mysteriously drown even if they are not underwater. Abathar Muzania - Originally spoken of in the religious lore of the Mesopotamian Middle-East, these cryptic angels are responsible for the weighing of souls before they pass into the Afterlife. They use a set of scales to determine the worthiness of the people, and also to sometimes represent the North Star. Abatwe - African faeries, these minuscule creatures are small enough to ride ants, and have a powerful psychic bond with the insects, which allows them to summon swarms of them. According to local folklore, they were born when the tears of a weeping nature spirit fell into the African desert. Despite being a proud race, they are very sensitive about their size, and use poison dart weapons against anyone who offends them. Abbagoochie - Although originally only found in Costa Rica, these savage primates were imported to West Virginia to act as pest control, though multiplied out of control and are now considered a threat to human safety. They are sometimes called 'dry land piranhas' because of their intense feeding frenzies, in which they can devour animals many times their size. If cornered, the creatures will eat themselves rather than let themselves be captured, though it is unknown what sort of instinct drives them to do this. Abchanchu - Shapeshifting into the forms of vulnerable old men, these hideous Bolivian vampires will wait at the sides of roads and walkways, pretending to need help and begging to be allowed into the houses of passersby. If given this permission, they will drain the blood of their victims, or leave them with fatal diseases that will kill them within a week. The only way to protect oneself from an attack is to wear an amulet containing garlic oil. Abere - Lurking in the swamps of Melanesia, an island off the coast of New Guinea, these hostile faeries are capable of shapeshifting into beautiful human females, and use this ability to lure hapless travelers into their domains. These enthralled victims will then be suddenly covered in reeds and vines, and will be slowly digested by the creature. Abhartach - According to Irish folklore, this man was once a villainous dark magic user and a tyrant who subjugated the population of his surrounding area, and was eventually killed by these same subjects. However, he was buried improperly, and promptly rose again as a vampire to drain the blood of those that had killed him. His grave is still visible, and he was eventually defeated by burying his body upside down, due to advice given by a local druid. Abhiyoga - Taking on the forms of clouds of dark smoke and always bringing heavy rainstorms with them wherever they go, these unique demons are mentioned in the Hindu and Buddhist mythologies of Asia, and are held to represent darkness and rain, as can be guessed from their appearance and abilities. Little is known about them because of their rarity in the modern day, but their name means 'prosecution', which implies that they may be tenacious and unrelenting in temperament. Abiku - Demonic spirits known from the Dahomey folklore of West Africa, these foul elementals live in forested areas, but are known to enter the wombs of women and possess their babies before they are born, killing the children before they reach the age of eleven. After the deaths of their first hosts, the spirits will be reborn into the same families, haunting other children and luring them to similarly-premature deaths. The sound of bells can drive Abiku away from their intended victims. Abo Ragl Ma Slokha - Wielding burning hot weapons and flaming instruments, these horrific African undead creatures are often used as bogeymen within isolated communities. They are formed from the scorched bodies of children who died in wildfires because they didn't heed the warnings of their parents, and now wander the desert looking for humans to eat. Aboleth - Malevolent aberrations resembling eels or prehistoric jawless fish, these psychic monstrosities are incredibly intelligent despite their appearance, and must constantly remain covered in a slimy secretion in order to breathe. If air-breathing creatures are caught in this mucus, they will transform into mindless aquatic slaves known as skum. Aboleths are biologically immortal, and will only die if they are killed by another creature. They are a relatively newly-developed species, seeing as the first mention of their existence came in modern fantasy literature. Abominable Snowman - Based on the many popular culture misconceptions about the behavior and biology of the yeti species, these vaguely simian tulpas are not restricted to mountains, and can instead appear anywhere in cold environments. They are aggressive and physically strong, as well as intelligent and curious. Because of this trait, they can sometimes be distracted from pursuing potential prey. Ab-Sha-Am-Tuat - Guarding the Tomb of Osiris in the seventh section of the Egyptian Underworld known as Duat, this monstrous crocodile dwells in the hidden chamber containing the resting place of the deceased deity, and it is said that when Ra passes the monster on his solar journey he mesmerises it using magical incantations. This allows Osiris, buried underneath the crocodile, to raise his head and gaze at Ra, thus meaning that the followers of Osiris are also returned to life. Abúhukü - Monstrous vampires with the heads of mosquitoes, these creatures live in the foliage of the Amazon rainforest, and drain the internal organs and fluids from their victims by making holes in the tops of their heads. Despite their deadly hunting strategy, they are rather stupid, and can be repelled by the smoke made when peppers are burnt. Abura-Bō - Monk-like spirits, these Japanese faeries are capable of transforming into floating pillars of destructive flame using their life-force, though this ability drains and damages their very souls. As a result, they are cowardly creatures that prefer to stay away from threats, despite being able to easily remove aggressors using their supernatural flames. Abyzou - Thought to be one of the many descendants of the ancient Middle Eastern deities representing the Primordial Sea, this European demon resembles a classic gorgon, and is responsible for infant mortality and miscarriages. It does this because it is incapable of having its own children, and is driven solely by envy for those that can. The monster is sometimes depicted on medical amulets, that can ward away sickness and strengthen exorcism rites. Acalica - Rarely seen but often felt, these South American faeries live in deep caves across mountainous areas, and have the ability to alter the weather and atmospheric conditions around themselves. When they are seen, they take the forms of diminutive and wizened old men. Because of the similarities between them, they are thought to be related to the nuberu. Acarus Crossii - Discovered during a scientific experiment in 1836, these strange insects resemble scorpions or mites, and were originally produced whilst attempting to generate crystals from electricity. After a few weeks of being created, the insects are capable of moving around and hunting prey. Their victims will be killed with severe doses of electricity. Acheri - Taking on the form of young girls, these demons are found in the mountains of North America, and stalk the villages in the surrounding areas spreading death and disease. Potential victims can be protected from attacks by tying a red ribbon around their necks. Achiyalabopa - Mentioned in the folklore of the Pueblo people of North America, this enormous bird was held as a deity of sorts, being said to rule over the sky and to have even had a role to play in all of creation. Despite its amazing power, it is not regarded as a tyrannical ruler, but is capable of instantly killing anyone who disrespects it with a flap of its wings. Its feathers are razor-sharp and glow with all the colours of the rainbow, and it is said to be incredibly wise. Achlis - Incredibly rare ungulates, these creatures are a form of deer that have evolved to have an elephant-like trunk to browse from high trees. They were said to have legs with no joints in Roman mythology, and thus had to walk backwards when grazing to prevent their trunk from covering their mouths. This has since been confirmed to be untrue. Achlys - Resembling an emaciated and hideous humanoid woman, this terrifying ancient Greek deity is responsible for bringing a 'Mist of Darkness' to the field of vision of those who were about to die. She is regarded as the personification of misery and hopelessness, and is sometimes also associated with deadly poisons. Her image was represented on the shield of Heracles, and many chemical weaposn have been made in her name. Aciebel - Apparently having power over everything in or on the water, this obscure aquatic demon was described by Dr. Johannes Faustus in a 1524 book he wrote on the subject of demonology, in which he claimed that Aciebel has the abilities to return lost objects and raise sunken ships up from lakes or the sea. As with many other demons, dark magic users have been known to invoke Aciebel to do their bidding, and apparently the sharper its name is said, the quicker it will yield results. Acrididaemon - Cruel demons comprised of swarms of locust-like insects, these enormously destructive beings randomly wander the planet, ravaging everything in their path and bringing ruin to the settlements through which they pass. Though they normally prefer to senselessly devastate societies outright, they are also known to enjoy the suffering they cause, sometimes taking single prisoners and watching them starve to death in the squalid conditions of their lairs. Adamastor - Banished from the realm of the gigantes, these Portuguese creatures now lurk above the Indian Ocean in the forms of devilish storm-clouds, and will deliberately sink any ships that attempt to pass through their path. They have ghostly humanoid forms with long beards and skeletal limbs, and can only be prevented from killing the crew of a ship if they are asked to explain their stories about banishment. Adam's Hedgehog Bear - Resembling large bears with hedgehog-like spikes on their backs and sides, these peculiar North American predators are thought to be relic members of a prehistoric species such as deinogalerix. They have been sighted only once throughout history by the naturalist from whom they get their name, though have since been studied from the data available. Adar Llwch Gwin - Similar to griffins, these large birds are found among the mountains of Wales and Britain, and are said to have originally been given to a warrior as a gift from a group of faeries. They can understand human speech and will obey every command given to them by those who have tamed them, though these commands can be overridden by powerful beings such as deities. Adaro - When a wicked person dies by drowning, they have a chance of resurrecting as one of these ghostly merfolk that are spoken of in the culture of the Solomon Islands. They resemble humanoid sharks with the barb of a swordfish on their forehead, and are said to congregate near sources of bright light such as rainbows. Malevolent beasts, they will kill unwary fishermen by manipulating the fish and animals in the area into carrying out vicious attacks. Adh Seid - Appearing either as frogs, feminine humanoids or black horses, these shapeshifting Celtic faeries emerge at midnight around the British countryside, and will seek out and enter the households of those with guilty consciences. They will relentlessly haunt these people, scratching their chests at night and driving them to either madness or death. It is said that people who have clean consciences cannot see the creatures, and so potential victims should make peace with their guilt. Adhene - About the sizes of small children when visible, these devilish faeries are held to be fallen angels that were too good to be cast into Hell in Manx tradition. They sometimes kidnap humans and make general mischief, though are more well known for fishing on the beaches and herding cattle on cliffs. It is said that when the faeries are making storage barrels in caves, the human fishermen know that there are fish to be caught. Adherer - Despite looking similar to undead mummies, these grotesque beings are actually formed from hapless travelers that become trapped in Limbo and are transformed through a hellish process, riddling their bodies with adhesive strands that can stick to anything, allowing them to snatch weapons away from aggressors and easily capture human victims. They are thought to have once been the victims of a large colony of Phase Spiders, being driven mad by torment at the hands of the arachnids. Adjuchas - Either identified as obscure angels or rare djinn, these bizarre winged creatures are referred to in the writings of Judaeo-Christian religions as appearing just before the Apocalypse arrives on Earth. Their stony appearance signifies their common habitat, which is among rocks and mountains. Adjule - Last seen in 1992, these rare North African canids are said to have reddish skin, and to be able to emit a pheromone that causes discord and contention among humans to allow them to hunt livestock. They hunt in large packs of up to 13 individuals, and are roughly 2.5ft tall at the shoulder. There has recently been some dispute as to whether they represent a different species of monster altogether, or if they are simply supernatural variants of the African wild dog. Adlet - Usually appearing as humanoids with the hair and legs of dogs or wolves, these shapeshifting monsters are found in the local lore of Inuit communities across Greenland. They are said to have originally been born as the product of a unison between a dark magic user and a large dog, and thus often appear nowadays to punish crimes of animal cruelty. Due to their canine feet, they are fast moving predators, but will often lose in direct combat with humans. Adroanzi - Clambering around among the treetop canopies of Africa, these goblin-like faeries are known to follow travelers along silently, and protect them from attacks by bandits or wild animals. However, if the traveler looks over their shoulder to see the creature, they will promptly be killed and eaten. According to local mythology, they are the direct descendants of an ancient creator deity. Adze - These bloodsucking witches are mentioned in the folklore of Ghana and Africa as terrifying beings that change their form into that of a firefly in order to fly under the doors of sleeping victims, and through any small cracks and crevices in the sides of buildings. They are capable of possessing humans, and will usually become wrathful and violent towards those that their host is jealous of. Aegipan - Aquatic variants of satyrs, these creatures are held to be responsible for the birth of the Greek deity known as Pan in folklore. They are still found in shallow pools of water in the Grecian Islands and other Mediterranean territories, despite their incredibly ancient nature. Like both sirens and satyrs, they have the ability to use auditory hypnosis spells on potential human victims. Aegopithecus - Bearing a heavy resemblance to satyrs and fauns, these strange hairy humanoids were recorded in the bestiaries of medieval Europe, and were said to resemble primates with the horned faces of goats. They appear to be far less intelligent and self-aware than satyrs, and are roughly as clever as a gorilla or other large primate. It has been suggested that they may be responsible for some reports of 'goatmen' in the modern day. Aeon - Detailed in the cosmology of the Gnostic religion, these incredibly powerful angel-like beings are thought to be emanations of the central Divine energy of the Judaeo-Christian God, and are said to multiply in numbers but decrease in strength as the source of the divine energy moves further away, due to less and less energy being available. They are sometimes viewed as positive manifestations of the divine, but are also depicted as reminders of the distance between humanity and divinity. Aerico - Found in Greece, these disease demons usually dwell unseen in the air, as nothing more than dust particles, though can also take on humanoid form to physically attack victims. Everywhere they go, they will spread various diseases such as malaria using the vapor that their bodies constantly give off. They can feed on human life energy using their long tongues, and they kill prey with their brutal claws. Aerophant - Discovered in 1987 by a German zoologist, these curious European pachyderms are unique in having a pair of large wings on their back with which they can fly for short periods. Earlier sightings of the airborne animals are thought to have inspired the fictional story of Dumbo. Aeshma - Wielding a mace-like weapon constantly dripping with blood, this Zoroastrian demon is the personification of rage and violence, and is known to induce carnage and fury wherever it goes. It acts as a messenger of Angra Mainyu (also known as Ahriman) and is thought to benefit greatly from religious rituals performed slightly incorrectly. Like most demons, it is repulsed by prayer and spiritual devotion. Aeternae - Resembling humanoids with the heads and faces of triceratops dinosaurs, these massive Indian ogres were encountered by Alexander the Great and his men according to ancient Greek traditions. They killed their victims by impaling them on their bony horns and frills, and then eating their mutilated corpses. Aetos Dios - Created from the soul of an ancient Greek king who wanted to be a god and thus invoked the wrath of Zeus, these birds were placed at the deity's side instead of being killed. They act as messengers and emissaries for the god, and are tasked with fetching food from the mortal realm to placate the hunger of the Greek pantheon. Afanc - First recorded in the 15th century, these deadly lake monsters resemble hybrids of beavers and alligators, and will render the waters of the lakes that they occupy poisonous to all those who drink it. They can be rendered temporarily unconscious by contact with a human virgin, but can only be killed by decapitation. African Behemoth - Although often thought of as a surviving dinosaur, this massive herbivore is in fact an ungulate that has evolved to mimic stegosaurs and ceratopsians in their lifestyles. They are rare among their hoofed kin due to the presence of both branching horns that are used for display, and tusks used for combat. Their hide is very strong, which means that they are incredibly difficult for poachers or predators to take down. Agalon Hayopan - Intelligent and patient predators, these relatives of the aswangs live in and around rivers in the Philippines, and are known to be able to control crocodiles, making them hunt humans for them. They resemble normal humans at first glance, and live in advanced houses and dwellings throughout thick woodland. The crocodiles will bring their human prey back to the monsters' houses, where the beings will cook and eat the corpses. Agarthan - Close relatives of the Nordics and other humanoid descendants, these incredibly tall and bulky benevolent beings are found in vast underground cities near the Himalayas. They have an extremely technologically-advanced society, and some individuals of their species have been known to reach ages of 30,000 years old. Fruits and trees grow to much larger sizes in their sectors of the planet. Agas - Feeding on the sins of the surrounding humans, these terrifying demons are thought to be the personification of illness in Middle-Eastern religion. They govern over crimes and sins that are committed because of sight and sensuality, and usually serve more powerful demonic monsters such as daevas. When they feed on the sins of their victims, their very souls are damaged. Agassou - Created by a 'divine mating' between a princess and a leopard, this feline deity (or Loa) is the ruler of a particular African sect known as the Leopard Society, and is mentioned in the mythology of the West African Vodun and Haitian Vodou religions. Men of the Leopard Society are said to be directly descended from him, and the spear and shield that his angelic father supposedly gave to him are still closely guarded. He is often invoked when temples are in need of money. Agathion - Often used as familiars by modern magic users and witches according to occult literature, these demonic creatures usually appear as hybrids of humanoids and animals, and are often anchored to either bottles or talismans. Although the objects to which they are attached is always visible, the beings themselves only become active at midday, unless they are specifically summoned at any other hour. Agathodaemon - Companion spirits mentioned in Ancient Greek religion, this serpent-like elemental is associated with vineyards and grain fields, ensuring good luck, health and wisdom to the humans over which it watches. Ancient Greeks would either pour out or drink a few drops of unmixed wine at the beginnings of feasts and symposiums to honour it. In human form, it appears as a young man holding a cornucopia in one hand and an ear of grain and a poppy in the other. Agemo - Capable of camouflaging itself against any surface, this large chameleon is spoken of in the folklore of African regions, in which it was said to be used as a messenger by a destructive deity. It was featured in a particular legend involving it changing the color of its body faster than a world-class weaver could knit different colored wool. Nowadays, it is used as a mount by lunwaba. Aghash - These Persian djinn have a single, glowing blue eye in place of their face, and are often surrounded by a ferocious localized sandstorm. They are able to inflict brutal curses on enemies from a long distance away, and have a strange compulsion to destroy and ruin all things that they view as beautiful. Aghasura - Used as weapons by various groups of rakshasas and demons, these enormous serpents are so large that they can disguise their bodies against mountains and have prey enter their mouths, thinking that they are caves. They appear to be able to shapeshift, as they can increase their sizes at will and sometimes assume human form to camouflage among populations. Aghoy - Always walking around barefoot, these beautiful but manipulative faeries are found in the forests and jungles of the Philippines, where they may appear to be helpful to lost travelers. They will take small amounts of their food, and offer perplexing gifts in return. However, if these gifts are accepted, their victim will be dragged to the Faery Realm, from which they will never return. Aglebemu - To be found in the swamps and lakes of North America, these massive frogs are spoken of as lake monsters in Native American mythology. They are said to be so large that they cause blockages in waterways, thus creating terrible droughts. It is for that reason that there is a story about a legendary hero slaying one of the beasts in the folklore of the Native Americans. Agloolik - Aquatic humanoids, these creatures live underneath the ice in cold areas of North America. They are not hostile, and are known to catch fish and then present them to human fishermen. Despite this, they have been known to grab the feet of those who seek to damage their habitat through overfishing and pollution. Agogwe - Spotted in the jungles of East Africa, these small hairy humanoids stand up to 1 meter tall, and are covered in rusty brown hair like that of orangutans. They have been being reported by Western explorers since the very early 1900s, and some speculation has been made that they may be relict australopithecines. Agrat bat Mahlat - Directly related to Lilith and other succubi or incubi, this demonic fallen angel is known from the lore of the Jewish religion, and is thought to have conceived children with both Samael and King David, producing a cambion with the latter. It is sometimes referred to as the 'dancing roof demon' because of how it dwells in the air among a host of other demons, and it is thought to have been imprisoned in a lamp by Solomon before being freed by David. Agriogourouno - Transforming into boar-like monsters after their deaths, these shapeshifting monsters are said to live in Turkey according to Ancient Greek tradition, and to be born from the souls of those who have lead wicked lives and have never eaten pork. They have a ravenous appetite for human flesh, and are thought to be undead because of their origin from deceased human souls. Agrios - Born from an insane deity having children with a large bear, these horrific ogres usually resemble humanoid bears or vultures, or some form in between the two animals. They feed on human flesh and corpses, and are known to kidnap and murder any passersby that they come across. Agrippa - Sometimes referred to as death tomes or monster books, these large creatures appear as grimoires filled with the details and names of every demon ever to appear on Earth. They detest being read, and have to be beaten and fought to even open their pages. Those who have possession of one of these books will struggle to sleep and will smell of sulfur, and will go to Hell when they die. Agropelter - This primate exists in small numbers in the woodlands of North America, and will often throw large objects using its incredibly strong arms at those that it perceives as invaders to its territory. They feed off birds and rodents, as well as vegetation, and resemble slender chimpanzees. Agta - Usually found inside trees across the forests of the Philippines, these faeries appear as humanoids with oily black skin, and will warn fishermen of impending maritime disasters. If the fishermen do not heed their warnings, they will push logs into the water from their trees to prevent them from launching their boats. Aguada Trespassers - Causing a strong feeling of terror and even temporary paralysis in their victims, these powerful ultraterrestrials resemble the classic 'grey aliens'. Against potential threats, they use a strange weaponized green beam of light, which can cause long-term sickness and paranoia. However, there are stories about them curing cancers and other serious illnesses in those that respect them. Aguane - Adept shapeshifters, these North Italian faeries are found in the hills, streams and rivers of the Austrian Alps, and are said to normally resemble extremely beautiful feminine humanoids with long hair and large breasts, but also sometimes the feet of either horses or goats. They are considered to be the protectors of mountainous rivers and streams, and will eat trespassers who do not ask for their permission to cross. However, they are fond of children and will help them across water. Agula - Found in the Australian Northern Territory, these strangely-corporeal ghosts seem to not have any malevolent intentions, and usually resemble their living selves in both appearance and mannerisms. They will seek out those that they felt were their companions and fellows in life and follow them, needing to be driven off using spells or rituals. However, if they are physically killed, their bodies will immediately disappear, revealing their ghostly identities. Ah Puch - Despite nowadays commonly being referred to as a genuine deity of death in the Mayan culture of Central America, this skeletal creature has become a tulpa in recent years due to a misinterpretation of an ancient text. It works against the gods of fertility and life, and is usually accompanied by dogs or owls. Because the Mayas were much more fearful of death than other Mesoamerican cultures, it is also said to stalk and harass the the sick and dying, and to be frightened by mourning. Ahazu - Foul Judaeo-Christian demons, these pestilent entities are also known as 'seizers' due to their possessive abilities and their long claws. Those that they possess will suffer from and spread a bizarre disease referred to as Ahazie, which can cause seizures and strokes according to the ancient medieval texts of the time. They appear to be far less common nowadays, and next to nothing else is known about them, though it is presumed that they can be repelled by salt and iron. Ahi-At-Trab - Living just below the surface of the Sahara Desert, these mischievous and destructive faeries appear as whirling columns of sand in their true form, and enjoy playing cruel pranks on the Nomadic local people. They are known to drink up all of the water in watering holes and cause springs to run dry, as well as creating instability in the desert ground so that camels and travelers fall to their deaths. Ahkiyyini - According to Inuit and North American mythology, men who spend too much time in life dancing and playing musical instruments may continue to do so after death, as one of these skeletal undead creatures. They use their arm bones as drumsticks to beat their scapulae, and can cause nearby rivers or seas to turn violent and wreck ships using these powerful noises. Ahool - These massive bats have 3 meter wingspans, and are found deep in the jungles of Java and other Indonesian areas, where they feed on fish, as well as occasionally humans, which they engulf with their wings and tear apart with their jaws. Females of the species are very social, whereas the males live on their own. They are named for their signature cry sounding akin to an owl's. Several villages have stories of these creatures swooping in overnight and carrying innocent people off into the jungle, never to be seen again. Ahriman - Destructive spirits, these Zoroastrian demons feed on feelings of rage and hatred among humans, and can generate these emotions among their victims to an extreme degree. They are capable of implementing a form of post-hypnotic suggestion in humans, which often leads to them being worshipped as false gods. It is thought that their appearances act as harbingers of an oncoming cruel Winter for the vicinity. Ahti - Regarded as a deity in ancient Egyptian mythology, this bizarre hybrid beast usually appears as a hippopotamus with the head of a wasp, and is often said to be spiteful and to represent malicious intentions. The hippopotamus was associated with chaos and destruction on Egyptian culture, and the wasp was regarded as dangerous and irritating. However, it has also been linked with Bes, a more benevolent goddess that protects homes and offers good luck during childbirth. Ahuizotl - Found in rivers and lakes across Central Mexico, these bizarre aquatic predators resemble wolves or large otters with prehensile tails, and human-like hands at the tips of these appendages. Their waterproof hair clumps together and gives the appearance of spines or armour, and they are known to use the hands at the ends of their tails to mimic that of a drowning human, and then use the limb to drag their victims into the water, where they will eat their eyes, teeth and nails. Ahzi Dahaka - Found in Iran and Central Asia, this three-headed dragon was created by an evil god to feed on humans and cause destruction. It was apparently able to shapeshift into a more humanoid form at will, and also able to control vermin in its locality. However, the beast was killed in ancient times, and has not yet resurfaced. Äi - Dwelling in the swampy forests and woodlands of Southern Europe, these serpentine dragons are greatly feared because of their ability to infect their human victims with various fatal diseases. Their arrival is often announced by the outbreaks of horrific plagues and infections in nearby villages. Ai Apaec - Worshipped as a deity by ancient Peruvian civilizations in South America, this monstrous entity resembles a humanoid spider with fangs and serpents instead of hair. It is often depicted holding a severed head and a large blade, and is known to demand human sacrifices, from which it garners its nickname of 'the headsman'. Local territories would be rewarded with wealth and fertility after offering sacrifices. Aigamuxa - Sometimes thought to be related to the tenome, these monstrous humanoids are found in the deserts and grasslands of Africa, where they will chase and eat any appropriate prey that they find. Oddly, they have their eyes on the soles of their feet rather than on their faces, which means that they must do a headstand every once in a while to survey their surroundings. This means that they are easily outwitted. Aíje - Originally born from a small tadpole found in a Brazilian river and then enchanted by a magic user, these monstrous creatures resemble enormous amphibians such as frogs or newts. Their ancient tadpole ancestor supposedly grew so large under the magic spell that it was expelled from the village, and its descendants can therefore be found in the rivers of Brazil nowadays. Áillen - Residing in the Irish equivalent of the Underworld, likely synonymous with the Faery Realm, this beautiful humanoid being is perpetually locked in a bizarre cycle, appearing every October to burn villages to the ground after lulling the inhabitants to sleep with its singing. According to mythology, a folk hero inhaled the poison from the tip of his own spear to keep himself awake long enough to slay the fire-breathing creature. Ailuranthrope - Often considered to be witches according to traditional European culture, these shapeshifters are also simply known as 'werecats' and have the innate ability to transform themselves into monstrous forms resembling either domestic cats or panthers. Different variations on these creatures are known from all over the world, such as shapeshifting cats in Japan and shapeshifting tigers in India. Ainanna - Bearing a close resemblance to the shakōki-dogū sculptures of ancient Japan, these dwarfish, armored alien beings are allegedly the current occupants of the planet Mars according to contactee literature. They have been using their access to Mars to mine a valuable gold-like mineral with which their race trades and barters. Aipalookvik - Described in the Inuit mythology of Canada and Greenland, these aquatic undead creatures inhabit severely rotting corpses, and use them to seek out human victims to drain of body heat. People living in secluded villages on coastlines have seen these vampiric creatures emerging from the water late at night. Terrifyingly, they can access the memories and assume the personality of the deceased, meaning that they can lure their prey close enough to feed on them. Airi - Always accompanied by packs of baying hellhounds, these terrifying Indian ghosts are born from the souls of those who are killed in hunting accidents, and will haunt the general area in which they died. Their saliva is said to be so toxic that anyone who is exposed to it will die unless a special ritual is carried out. Anyone who encounters one of these monsters will either be burnt to death by their fiery eyes, savaged by the hounds or will have their liver torn from their body. Aisha Qandisha - Lurking on the riverbanks and coasts of Morocco, these carnivorous djinn are extremely similar to merfolk, and use intricate enchantments to appear as beautiful human women when they are directly observed by their intended prey. However, when foolhardy young males come closer to them, they will reveal their giant and monstrous true forms and swiftly devour them. Sometimes, however, they have been known to be magnanimous and reward potential victims with riches. Aitvaras - Resembling a black rooster with a flaming tail, this Lithuanian creature is said to bring good fortune and stolen goods to any household that it makes its nest in. This is usually encouraged by dark magic users, who may have sold their soul to attract one of the creatures. However, the stolen nature of the goods often brings legal difficulties and community discord to the household, which is sometimes interpreted as bad luck. Aiwel - Mentioned in the mythology of the Dinka People of Africa, this hybrid folk hero was born from the unison of a water spirit and a human woman, but the latter died while he was still young meaning that he spent his childhood in rivers and waterways with his father. Eventually, he returned to human society only to be met with the news that a great drought had broken out, and so he offered to lead people to a promised land. He gave the survivors new roles in the newly formed Dinka tribe. Aja Akapad - Resembling one-legged goats in their true forms, though usually appearing as beautiful human women, these astoundingly fast entities are thought to have been regarded as the personification of lightning in Hindu myth. They can create earthquakes and destructive tremors by pounding the ground with their single hooves. Ajatar - Found in the woodlands and mountains of Finland, these terrifying dragon-like demons are usually portrayed as appearing like hybrids of humanoid women and monstrous serpents. They are believed to spread pestilence and disease, as well as controlling serpents and reptiles in their general vicinity. There is some speculation that they may be related to ogres or Baba Yaga. Aka Manah - Spreading lies, deceit and lust among human populations, these tricky demons are mentioned in the mythology of the Zoroastrian religion. They are not known to work well with other demons or fallen angels, and are sometimes said to wish death upon everyone but themselves and the human body that they must possess in order to gain a corporeal form. Aka Shita - Very little is known about these hairy creatures that somehow live inside the storm-clouds of Japan. They are said to be predators, that snatch up potential prey using their long and dexterous tongues, and are thus seen as omens of bad fortune. There are stories of the creatures avenging water-related crimes in times of droughts by causing inexplicable floods and hunting down criminals. Akaanga - Serving a malevolent deity known as Miru, these terrifying demons dwell on the shores of lakes and rivers across the Cook Islands (close to New Zealand), and entrap the souls of the recently-deceased in nets and webs. These souls are then held underwater to the point of unconsciousness before being offered as sacrifices to Miru. Miru will season the souls with specific roots and herbs before cooking and eating them. How she does this is unknown. Akalakui - Using spears and other rudimentary weapons to hunt and wound any humans they find in secluded African areas before leaving them to die of blood loss, these vicious faeries are mostly nocturnal, and have famously sharp teeth. They are capable of shapeshifting into monstrous serpents, and can become invisible at will. Despite their small size, they are regarded as predators superior to lions by local human populations. Akaname - Found in households with a complete lack of sanitary discipline, these Japanese goblin-like faeries will feed on the filth using their long and sticky tongues. They have a mop of greasy hair atop their head, and a splotchy reddish body, as well as webbed hands and feet for climbing up walls. Although they may seem helpful at first, cleaning the household, they can spread disease, and so it is wise to not let these creatures settle down in one's house. Akanan - Lurking in the undergrowth of the Amazon rainforest, this massive South American tarantula is feared by the locals because of its cattle-killing abilities. When it rears up on its hind legs, it reaches the height of a full grown man. Local populations often use this creature's existence to discourage children from entering the forest alone. Aker - Similar to the marozi, these Egyptian felines are often depicted in pairs, guarding the souls of pharaohs or kings that pass through the Underworld. They are fearsome creatures, and are capable of fighting off demons and dragons, and are sometimes even used as guards by deities such as Ra for this reason. According to the mythology, they are capable of shapeshifting to a limited degree, becoming sphinx-like creatures. Akerbeltz - Satyr-like demons, these beings are spoken of in Basque mythology, in which they are said to lure large amounts of people into the woods and engage in large orgies. They are known to spout blasphemies and defile religious artifacts, and are particularly famous for giving 'mock ceremonies'. However, ancient people seem to have found a way to tame the creatures, and used their presence to bring themselves good fortune. Akheilos - This race of shark-like sea creatures is thought to have originated when a young Greek boy boasted that he was more beautiful than Aphrodite, and was transformed into a monster as a result. Nowadays, his descendants are the scourge of fishing communities off the coast of the Grecian Islands, regularly coming ashore and stealing fish and killing those who caught them. Akhekhu - Originally described as representations of the evil deity known as Set, these Egyptian dragons resemble four-legged serpents with vaguely antelope-like features. They are found in deserts and wastelands, and some individuals have three snake-like structures on the backs of their heads. Due to exploration and trade, small populations of the creatures now exist in Europe as well. Akhkharu - Summoned into this plane of reality through use of an ancient Middle-Eastern ritual, these amorphous vampires will begin to seek out human victims to drain of blood as soon as they arrive in our dimension. If they consume enough blood, they will eventually gain the ability to assume human form and camouflage themselves among small communities. Akhkhazu - Causing outbreaks of diseases such as fever and jaundice among young children, these hideous Middle Eastern demons usually travel in groups of three, and take on vaguely feminine forms. Little is known about them, besides from the fact they are apparently members of a group of three different species of demon that all work together to sicken and wither human populations. Akhlut - These shapeshifting variants of an ambulocetus-like animal live in the Arctic areas of Canada and Russia, and will change into a fully aquatic form when they swim, but into a terrestrial body when hunting prey. They are tracked by the native people by the trails of wolf tracks that they leave leading straight towards the sea. Akki - Demonic relatives of trolls, these Japanese creatures are sometimes confused with the more common oni, and are large and grotesque in shape. They are massively physically strong and have psychic abilities, though are easily distracted by their crude and obnoxious sense of humor. Akkorokamui - Lurking in the shallow waters around Asia and Indonesia, these enormous red octopuses are said to drag ships and boats below the waves and feed on their occupants. Their striking red color and their incredibly large bodies results in the sea and the sky reflecting this shade, which is why Japanese fishermen will never sail if the sky is red. Akkruva - Rising from the freezing waters surrounding Finland and Lapland, this temperamental deity resembles one of the merfolk, and is usually seen combing its long hair while resting on a coastal rock or cliff. It is unpredictable, and will either choose to help fishermen catch the maximum amount of fish possible, or sink their ships if it feels that it has been treated badly. Because of this, it is worshipped in the local area. Akop - Found in the rural areas of the Philippines, these ghoulish demons attend human funerals and extract the fat out of the decaying corpses when no-one is watching. They usually hide in the rafters of buildings to remain concealed, and resemble humanoid monsters with long arms and heads that are slightly too large for their bodies. Like other monsters from this area, they often work in groups or packs. Aksar - Associated with the Apocalypse in Middle Eastern mythology, when they will be tasked with marking the faces of unbelievers, these colossal chimeras represent almost-indescribable mixtures of animal parts, including the necks of ostriches, the ears of elephants and the legs of camels or horses. They are sometimes said to be the embodiment of the wrathful force of the Judaeo-Christian God, and an individual of the species was shown to Moses by God, and the prophet was horrified. Aku-Aku - First encountered by a man named Tu’u Koihu as he was enjoying a midnight walk in the Puna Pau quarry on Easter Island, these knee-high faeries are usually invisible and seem to detest being seen, but the aforementioned witness spied two of them asleep in front of him. He noticed their skeletal bodies and lack of bellies, and was then chased away by the two entities for what he had seen. After agreeing not to tell anyone, he carved the likenesses of the spirits out of wood, and these sculptures were later used to ward away other evil spirits by the man's ancestors. Akuma - Eternally burning with horrifying flames, these fiery Japanese demons are related to onis and ifrits, and are usually known to carry enormous weapons such as swords, which they use to decapitate human victims. Their name has come to mean 'Devil' in certain branches of Japanese Christianity, and it is considered to be extremely bad luck if they are witnessed by humans. If they are witnessed, researchers advise people to retreat immediately for fear of being cursed with misfortune. Akvan - Described in ancient Middle Eastern texts as having blue eyes and elephantine heads with tusks instead of fangs, these monstrous daevas are responsible for spreading lies and deceit among human populations. There is a tale of a cultural hero who was captured by the demon, and asked if he would prefer to be thrown into the mountains or the sea. Knowing that the demon made a habit out of lying, he asked to be thrown to the mountains and was deposited into the sea instead. Al - Interfering with human childbirth by stealing the organs of pregnant or labouring women or replacing infants with demonic changelings, these Middle Eastern demons were supposedly created by the Judaeo-Christian God as the first consort for Adam, but Adam couldn't handle the monster's fiery nature leading to the animosity between the demons and human children. They resemble hideous hags with pointed clay noses and the tusks of boars, and sometimes carry baskets to contain stolen organs. Al Rakim - Referred to as brutal supernatural guard dogs in Islamic traditions of the Middle East, these rare hellhounds are capable of blending in with walls and flat surfaces, dragging prey items into the second dimension. They are associated with the legendary 'Seven Sleepers' and are said to never be found far away from the location of this mythical group. Alan - Winged variants of the common aswang, these Filipino vampires are said to steal human reproductive waste and transform it into children of their own, which they raise atop secluded mountains. This oddly sentimental behavior does not extend to the rest of their practices, as they are known to test the 'morality' of passersby, and if they fail then they burn their houses down. Alastor - Acting as ferocious avengers of bloodshed and evil deeds between opposing families, these demonic warriors have been known since ancient Greek mythology. They are capable of possessing human victims who are generally angry and filled with rage, and then use their hosts to wreak their vengeance upon those around them. Because of their ferocity, they are also immortalized in Christian tradition. Albastor - Created when an illegitimate child dies anabaptized, these Russian giants are capable of disguising themselves as humans, though their true form has silver skin and flowing hair. They seek out sexual intercourse with humans, and punish those who overindulge themselves with a supernaturally-transmitted disease. The only way to cure this is by catching the monster and breaking all of the fingers on its left hand. Albatwitch - Relatives of the orang-pendek and other pygmy hairy humanoids, these North American creatures are mischievous and are well-known for stealing apples and other fruit from local human populations. They often sit in trees in social groups, and only emerge to either find food or throw apples at startled people. Alberich - Obsessively stealing and guarding all riches in their vicinity, these greedy Norse faeries resemble small humanoid dwarfs are known to have been employed by ancient deities as guardians of powerful artifacts. There is a mythological story about the treasure guarded by one of these beings being stolen by Fafnir, and then a large group of gods frantically searching for it. Al-Burāq - Resembling a mighty winged horse with a humanoid face and the distinctive tail feathers of a peacock, this beautiful but bizarre beast is known from the Islamic faith of the Middle East, in which it is said to act as a mount for prophets such as Abraham and Muhammad. It is believed to supernaturally fast, and is said to be capable of traveling between Heaven and Earth swiftly and easily. The earliest depictions of this creature described it as a winged horse instead of a hybrid. Aldinach - Appearing as grotesque humanoid females or hags, these lesser Egyptian demons are responsible for the creation of earthquakes, floods, and other destructive or ruinous weather conditions and natural disasters. They are also sometimes said to be the causation of shipwrecks and maritime disasters off the coast of Egypt. As a result of the popularity of fantasy roleplaying games in recent years, they are now often depicted as humanoid scorpions, which is not correct. Alerion - Similar to large eagles or hawks, these bizarre European birds are featured in medieval heraldic artwork, and are notable because of their complete lack of a beak. They have feathery stumps in place of their legs and a single eye in the middle of their face. Depictions of the creatures are most commonly found in France. Alexandria’s Genesis - First created in 1998 when a fan-fiction writer wanted to write about a fictional genetic disorder that turns its sufferers into 'perfect humans' with purple eyes and a lack of body hair, this condition soon manifested as a unique tulpa. According to the lore laid out in the literature that spawned the condition, it first appeared in ancient Egypt due to a UFO. Sufferers can live for 150 years, and females with this condition do not menstruate, but are fertile nonetheless. Álfar - Similar to modern-day elves or other faeries, these ancient beings have origins in old Norse or Germanic texts, but are now most often heard about from Iceland and the surrounding areas. They are known to be able to shapeshift, and often tether themselves to particular objects referred to as 'elf rocks'. If one of these rocks is destroyed or removed, extreme bad fortune will befall those around it. It is for this reason that Icelandic natives greatly fear the beings even in modern times. Algul - Living in cemeteries and abandoned battlefields across the Middle East, these ghoulish shapeshifting djinn resemble humanoid leeches in their true forms, and are known to ask isolated travelers for help before transforming into their monstrous forms and draining their blood. Although the vampiric beings' preferred source of prey is human children, they can also survive on nothing but a few grains of rice every day. They have also been known to assume human form and start families. Alhamqa - Appearing as a woman with the head of a large black dog and glowing red eyes, this terrifying Middle-Eastern Djinn lives on shorelines and areas around seas, and is capable of causing the heart slow to an undetectable rate, meaning that its victims are mistakenly pronounced dead. These victims will then be buried alive, unable to protest due to their faux death and paralysis, and the Djinn will whisper and laugh into their coffins as they eventually suffocate to death. Alicanto - To be found in the Atacama Desert of Chile, these metal-eating birds are known for their golden feathers that glow brightly when exposed to sunlight due to the mineral particles in their structure. Due to the birds making their nests near veins of precious metals, miners have often been known to follow the light they produce. However, if the miners are spotted by the birds, the animals will lead them off cliffs. Alien Fairy - Emerging from bright orange glowing orb-like spaceships, these incredibly strange entities are thought to represent a missing link between faeries and ultraterrestrials, and were sighted by a single witness in 1979 in the countryside of England. They had the faces of the classic Greys, and used orange energy weapons to paralyze and confuse their victims. Like true faeries, they are mischievous and enjoy destroying households. Alkarısı - Assuming the forms of humanoid women in order to menace new mothers and their babies during the postpartum period, these succubus-like Turkish demons are capable of causing a sleep paralysis-like condition called 'Albastı'. Potential victims should have red veils placed over their faces and should not be left alone, and the rooms in which they sleep should be kept light. Placing a Quran on the bedside tables of vulnerable women is also advisable. Alkilith - Resembling bright green masses of toxic corruption, these truly abominable demons are hated and feared even by most other denizens of Hell, and are used by demonic rulers to embark on missions in territory that would be inhospitable for other demons. They take great pleasure in polluting the environment around them, and will sometimes ignore attacks or direct orders in order to poison another water source. Their flesh is acidic, and will cause those who touch it to slowly dissolve. Alklaha - Resembling a vaguely-birdlike creature with enormous wings, this avian monstrosity is to be seen across Siberia, and is thought to be related to the Minokawa and Bakunawa due to their similar appearance and behaviour. Just like the aforementioned monsters, the Alklaha was blamed for eclipses and other lunar phenomena due to its great size and apparent ability to literally swallow the moon. Despite its threatening powers, Little is known about it. Alkonost - Although presumed extinct, small populations of these creatures still exist in Russia, and are capable of making someone forget everything they know and become comatose using their singing. This ability is made all the more deadly by their beautiful appearance, resembling a hybrid of a human woman and a kingfisher. Alkuntane - Bloodsucking insects, these North American parasitic wasps will burrow into the ears of their sleeping victims until they reach their brains. A symptom of this sort of attack is a large blue pustule that will be visible in the victim's ear. This deformity must be removed and one's own ears covered to prevent further infection. Ålleberg Knight - According to Swedish legends, these unique undead entities are the ghosts of twelve knights who died during their namesake historical battle, and were then trapped underneath a mountain in spiritual form. They cannot ascend to the Afterlife until another war breaks out in Sweden, upon which they shall emerge from the mountain and join in the combat. Alligator Man - Sharing their body shape with centaurs and similar creatures, these bizarre North American creatures dwell in the swamps of Florida, and have small human torsos joined to the lower bodies of alligators. They appear to be intelligent and live in loose tribe-like societies, communicating with grunts and roars and making rudimentary tools to kill their prey. The mummified corpse of an individual was found in 1967, and has been nicknamed 'Jake'. Allip - Born from the tortured souls of those who fall prey to mental illness or insanity and take their own lives as a result, these horrid ghosts are cursed to eternally experience the violent madness that they were plagued with in life, and take out the terror this generates on the living. They lack the ability to kill their victims, but will render them unconscious with a touch and leave them suffering from the same insanity when they wake. Like other undead, they target those they knew. Allocamelus - Resembling large camels with the heads of donkeys, these heavy hybrid beasts are depicted in European heraldry, and some researchers have suggested that they may have been misidentified llamas. According to Dutch and English reference books from the mid 1500s, they are born from the crossbreeding mules and camels, but this is unlikely to be correct. Almamula - Born from a woman who had immoral and incestuous sexual relations with her brother, father and even the priest in her village, this demonic creature resembles a leaden-coloured mule dragging heavy chains and constantly spitting flames from its eyes and mouth, and is known to wander the mountains and forests of the Santiago del Estero area of Argentina. It spreads its curse throughout the settlements through which it travels, turning any other unfaithful women into mule-like monsters. Almas - First recorded by explorers in 1420 when a member of their species was captured by a warlike conqueror, these Mongolian hairy humanoids are more akin in appearance and behavior to wild humans than to apes, unlike other members of their group. They live in groups across mountainous areas, and are described as 'hairy and stinky and mute' by local humans. Despite allegations that they are non-human primates, they are sometimes said to either be surviving Neanderthals or homo erectus. Al-Mi'Raj - A large, yellow rabbit with a single horn protruding from its forehead, this creature is found in islands within the Indian Ocean. Despite its fairytale appearance, it is a ravenous predator, and will use the horn to impale animals many times its size. Aloés - Hailing from the waters of the Caribbean, these seahorses have evolved to resemble geese, and have plump bodies with four fins. They have been observed swimming alongside boats and among shoals of fish, jumping in and out of the water like dolphins. They feed on seaweed and other varieties of aquatic vegetation. Aloja - Resembling beautiful human females, these Spanish nymphs are found in various sources of freshwater across Catalonia, and are believed to live for thousands of years and to symbolise fertility and the life-giving properties of water. They are very prideful of their appearance, and there are some stories of marriage between human men and Alojas provided that the husbands do not reveal the identity of his partner to anyone else. In times of emergency, they can shapeshift into water ouzels. Alom-Begwi-No-Sis - Known from the Abenaki folklore of North America, these ugly aquatic faeries appear as hairy and dwarfish humanoids, and are said to own enchanted pots which are capable of greatly multiplying food placed into them (usually maize seeds). They are capable of increasing and decreasing their size at will, as well as shapeshifting into snakes, and are said to foretell the deaths by drowning of all those that see them. Like the Mannegishi, they mischievously tip canoes. Alouqâ - Unlike many vampires, these infernal creatures were never human, and are instead relatives of succubi mentioned in ancient Hebrew lore. They are considered to be immortal, and to use their supernatural power to exhaust human male victims with demonically-powered sexual intercourse. Much like other succubi and incubi, the humans' souls will be severely damaged through this process, eventually leading them into a deep depression and finally suicide. Alp - Normally attacking female victims, these grotesque German faeries are known to sit astride on a sleeping victim's chest and contort their dreams into hideous nightmares. As well as causing bad dreams, they have been known to kidnap livestock and knot hair, and generally cause mischief around the house. The only way to get rid of an alp is to either use steel weapons, or to shove a lemon down its throat. Alpha Draconian - Locked in a brutal war with the Lyrans, these winged reptilian humanoids are thought to be the descendants of a group of aliens that entered our dimension using 'stargates', and are often mistaken for dragonborn or weredragons because of their similar appearances. They are highly intelligent and adaptable, capable of traveling to and from our world with ease, and seem to have the ability to control reptilian shapeshifters and dragons in their vicinity. Alphyn - Rarely depicted in medieval British heraldic artwork, these strange hybrid creatures are thought to be flightless relatives of griffins, and resemble feathered wolves with long tails and curling tongues. They are sometimes said to represent judges and juries in the lore surrounding their use as heraldic symbols, though it is unknown where this idea comes from. Alp-Luachra - Resembling oversized newts, these parasitic Irish faeries are known to climb inside the mouths of those who sleep too close to the water's edge, and will consume half of the food that the victim eats, gradually starving them. They are usually invisible when inside a host, and can be driven out by eating a large quantity of salty food, because this will drive the creature to thirst. Alraune - If a child is born from the genetic samples of a hanged murderer, they will grow up as one of these creatures. They are incapable of feeling love or emotion, and will have strange, woody skin as well as leaves constantly growing in their hair. Alrinach - Presiding over earthquakes, floods, hail and rain, this powerful demon is known from the superstitions and folklore of British and European sailors, and is said to appear as a human female when it chooses to be visible. Little is known about it outside of various dictionaries of phrase and fable, but it is said to be capable of causing shipwrecks and other maritime disasters, presumably by manipulating natural conditions and weather phenomena. Alû - Introducing horrific nightmares and paralysis in their victims, these Middle-Eastern ghosts are the corrupted souls of once-humans that are summoned back from the Underworld by powerful demons, in order to torment the living. They have wing-like structures that they can use to smother their human victims, possessing them and rendering them comatose through this process. Aluka - Feeding off carrion, human flesh and blood, this rare species of vampire has existed in small populations worldwide since Biblical times. It is described as being able to partially absorb the corpse into its body as it drains the nutrients, and it can only be removed once the feeding is complete. It takes its name from a hebrew word meaning 'leech', for obvious reasons. Alux - Summoned by Mexican farmers through a specific ritual involving the construction of small houses in maize fields, these dwarfish faeries act as ferocious protectors of the surrounding land, bringing rain and fertility, as well as chasing off potential intruders or thieves. They will serve their summoner for seven years, but then become wild and must be treated with respect to prevent them from playing malicious tricks. If they are angered or disgruntled, they can be fought using salt. Alvantin - Indian vampires, these creatures are supposedly created when a cursed woman dies in childbirth, and will return from the grave to hunt down all those involved in the death. They will spread an incurable sickness among these people through bites and scratches, which will eventually cause paralysis and death. Alven - Water faeries, these creatures come from the Netherlands, and will attack anyone who attempts to damage their lakeside environment, even those who pick plants from it. They do not have wings, but are able to travel through the air in a bubble of water instead. Alwatheq - Psychologically terrifying as well as physically imposing, this truly insidious Middle-Eastern Djinn inhabits churches and other holy places, and usually takes on the form of a humanoid with large black wings and the head of a bull. When it attacks, it will cause its victims to permanently lose the ability to recognise other people or comprehend language, effectively rendering them unable to function in society. It is considered to be one of the Seventy-Two Infernal Djinn. Alyoshenka - Possessing alarmingly angular foreheads, these strange creatures are dwarfish relatives of the Grey aliens that have been discovered in cave systems around Russia. They are small and socially unintelligent, though are capable of building working spaceships and flying vehicles. The corpse of one of these animals was discovered in 1996. Am Fear Liath Mòr - Living in the mountain summits and passes of Scotland, these enormous psychic creatures are capable of causing senses of extreme fear and unease to come across travelers. The creatures are rarely seen, though when they are, they are described as extremely tall primates covered in dark grey hair. There is speculation that they may be related to the 'true giant' class of hairy humanoid. Amabiko - Emitting an aura of strange light, these prophetic Japanese merfolk appear to certain people just before the advent of a tragedy or epidemic of disease. They resemble three-legged humanoids with beak-like mouths and long hair, and will often instruct people to spread pictures of them across a community to protect it from harm. Amadan Dubh - Bringers of madness and chaos, these Irish faeries are capable of bringing insanity and paralysis to all those that they touch. Because of this incredibly destructive ability, the hunter community is currently attempting to eradicate them, though this project has so far been unsuccessful. Like all faeries, they are weak to the touch of cold iron. Åmand - Presiding over Danish rivers, these melancholic aquatic faeries demand to be able to drown at least one victim every year, or else the banks of their river will overflow and cause great flooding and destruction. If no-one is available to be drowned, the gloomy spirit will send out a psychic message that will single out a specific victim, who will then drown themselves. Certain local towns have taken to offering ritual sacrifices to appease the beings. Amanojaku - Minor Oni known to cause mischief and provoke humans into acting upon their most wicked secret desires, these Japanese demons spread spiritual pollution wherever they go, and are said to have originally descended from traditions of evil Shinto deities, now being depicted most commonly in Buddhist artwork. There is a horrific story about one of them breaking into a woman's house and killing her in order to wear her skin and assume her identity before her parents discovered it. Amarok - Enormous wolf spirits mentioned in the Inuit mythology of Greenland and Canada, these colossal predators are solitary beings that are regarded as highly intelligent and magically-gifted. If they are encountered and treated with respect, they will reward the witness with strength and respect among other humans, but if they are hurt or insulted they are capable of ripping a person's soul from their body with ease. Amaru - Most closely associated with the Inca culture of South America, these bizarre hybrid dragons are thought to be distantly related to amphipteres, and are usually depicted emerging from mountains and pyramids in traditional religious artwork of the area. They appear as strange farragos of multiple different animals, such as serpents, birds and pumas, and are thought to be able to freely move between the subterranean Underworld and our realm. Amarum - Appearing as freakish undead caricatures of boas and other large serpents, these powerful South American demons preside over witchcraft and dark magic users in their vicinity. They are regarded as formidable and feared opponents in the local culture, and it is said that the deceased souls of witches and warlocks come to rest within their bodies as wrathful ghosts. Amautalik - Known from the folk stories and legends of the Inuit people, this race of trolls is entirely female, and reproduce asexually. They are known to kidnap children that they can find, and put them in cages on their backs made from driftwood and whale bones. The children will be helpless as the troll wanders across the countryside back to its lair where it will eat them. Amazon - Originally a tribe of warrior women in ancient Greece, these people were almost completely wiped out because of their extreme attitudes towards matriarchy and female superiority. Thus, they made a deal with a powerful deity to make them immortal, but were turned into monsters as an unforeseen side effect. They are invulnerable, and are capable of reproducing all-female offspring at an incredible rate. Amberella - Originally a human woman who was captured by a powerful Lithuanian deity known as the Prince of the Sea to serve as his lover, this being was imprisoned in a castle fashioned from amber. Eventually she begged to be returned to her family, and this enraged the deity who let her only momentarily see them once more, whereupon she threw amber jewelry to her parents. Nowadays, she is a nymph-like entity that is responsible for the production of amber after sea-storms and tempests. Ambize - Horrific aquatic aberrations inhabiting the rivers and lakes of the African Congo, these creatures are described as having heads faintly resembling those of pigs, and human hands instead of fins. Their tails are round and wide, likely comprised of webbed fingers, but some researchers have suggested that they are related to manatees due to this. They are a local delicacy due to the remarkably pork-like taste of their meat, but they are very difficult to catch due to their hostile nature. Amefurikozō - Bringing torrential rainfall wherever they go, these irritating little Japanese elemental faeries resemble small children wearing kimonos, wooden clogs and large umbrellas on their heads, and are sometimes said to steal people's umbrellas to use as hats before causing rain to fall on the victims of their thievery. Despite this, they are skittish and shy around humans. Kitsunes enjoy having rain on their wedding days, and so sometimes pray to these elementals to produce it. Ame-Onna - Summoning torrential rainstorms wherever they go, these haggish Japanese spirits are thought to be originally descended from rain deities, though are now much closer to bogeymen or undead. They are often seen to carry large sacks, and will wander the dark streets of urban areas at night in search of newborn children. If they find any babies, they will kidnap them and transform them into others of their species. Ameranthropoides - First encountered by a group of geologists on a mission to Venezuela in the 1920s, these large and aggressive hairy humanoids are also known as 'De Loys' Ape' in honor of the man who discovered them. One of them was photographed. This photograph has since been analyzed by modern scientists who have come to the conclusion that it is likely a racially-motivated hoax, seeing as De Loys was attempting to prove different evolutionary heritage for different races of humans. American Hyena - All across the plains and mountains of North America, animals resembling African hyenas have been reported for centuries. They are thought to be relatives of the ringdocus and the shunka-warakin, and also to be responsible for the disappearances of several domestic pets and livestock animals. American Pterosaur - Although often mistaken for the avian thunderbirds, these creatures actually represent a relict population of prehistoric flying reptiles. They are rarely seen nowadays, on account of their high-altitude life and nocturnal hunting, though often form legends when seen at ground level in North America and Mexico. A photograph of one of the creatures was displayed in a newspaper in 1890, but this picture has since been lost. American Pterosaur - Although often mistaken for the avian thunderbirds, these creatures actually represent a relict population of prehistoric flying reptiles. They are rarely seen nowadays, on account of their high-altitude life and nocturnal hunting, though often form legends when seen at ground level. Aməša Spənta - Regarded as the divine emanations of the creator deity in the Zoroastrian religion, these holy beings are often confused with angels, but are actually the separate representations of the different personality aspects of a single being. There are only six members of this species, and followers of Zoroastrianism endeavour to mirror the characteristics of the benevolent beings as closely as possible. Each individual of the species has a counterpart that embodies its darker aspects. Amhuluk - Obsessed with killing and drowning any living organism that they come into contact with, these monstrous aquatic dragons are spoken about in the folktales of the Native Americans. They are often used as boogeyman figures, to keep children away from the water's edge, for fear of being impaled on the beasts' horns. A telltale sign of an impending attack from one of the beasts is the reflections in the water not matching up to their terrestrial counterparts. Amikiri - Resembling terrestrial lobsters, these strange creatures have faces like beaks and a limited gliding capability. They use this ability to enter households, where they feed on cloth fibers in a manner akin to moths. This has led to their folkloric representations being described as cutting nets. A-Mi-Kuk - Huge and slimy creatures, these monstrous beings are found in Alaska, where they burrow underground in order to move between inland lakes. They have four, human-like legs which they use to run at incredible speeds to chase their prey, and a long tail that can damage boats and buildings. They mostly prey on fishermen and people who bathe in their lakes, though have been known to consume large quantities of fish and water birds. Amitok - Wandering the expansive plains of cold or icy areas across the world, these hostile faeries resemble goblins with large throat sacks and white fur. They usually craft makeshift weapons and armor with which to assault intruders on their territory, and can use their throat sacks to make mighty bellowing noises. Amityville - Named after a famously haunted house in North America, these buildings are inhabited by so many ruthlessly evil ghosts that they gain souls of their own and become tsukumogami. A key sign that a house is one of these beings is human blood leaking from the walls for no apparent reason, as well as demonic creatures appearing to specific residents, and being invisible to the rest. It is believed that these entities are avatars of the house itself. Ammit - Originally known only from Egyptian mythology, this malevolent creature was referred to as 'the devourer of souls' and would consume the hearts of those who were deemed too sinful to enter the Afterlife. However, as a result of a string of recent unexplainable murders, its existence is being considered. Amphiptere - These beautiful dragons resemble bat-winged serpents covered in green or yellow feathers, and are found in high mountains across Europe. They have a clump of feathers at the end of their tails that have evolved to become hardened like the quills of a porcupine, and can be used to defend against potential attackers. They are mostly docile towards humans, though will feed on livestock animals such as sheep and cattle. Amphisbaena - Dwelling in the Sahara Desert and some areas of Greece, these strange dragons are thought to have spawned from the blood that dripped from Medusa's head after she was killed by Perseus. They resemble snakes with wings and heads at either end of their long bodies, and possess strong venom according to the works of Pliny the Elder. Despite this, they mostly subsist on a diet of ants and insects. Amphisbaena - These small dragons live in desert areas in Greece and the surrounding territories, where they eat mostly small animals and even ants, which their name refers to. Although they are often represented as having two heads, the second is simply a decoy, and the real head has powerful venom. Amphisien - Sparsely depicted throughout European heraldic artwork, these two-headed dragons are thought to be closely related to the cockatrice or amphisbaena, both of which they heavily resemble. The gazes of both their heads are said to be extremely deadly, capable of paralyzing or killing anyone caught within it. Their likenesses were sometimes represented on the shields of mighty medieval knights as a symbol of the warriors' prowess in battle. Anakim - Ogre-like giants, these horned creatures are said to have existed in the deserts and mountains of the Middle East during Biblical times. They were supposedly expelled from the planet by a powerful saint, though some of them are known to still exist in small pockets in desert areas. Anansi - Although physically weak, this African trickster god uses his wit and cunning to fool and trick his enemies. He is considered to be a spirit of knowledge and storytelling, and often appears as either an eight-legged humanoid or a giant spider. He brings rain to combat fire, and is said to have created the Moon in some variants of his tale. Anaskelades - Usually resembling donkeys covered in thick hair, these kelpie-like aberrations are mentioned in the Greek folklore of Crete, and are known to attempt to lure weary travelers onto their backs, after which they will grow to immense size and throw their unlucky passengers to the ground. Some later stories say that the creatures originally appear as small pieces of thread or hair on the ground, and will then assume their donkey-like forms if the thread is tampered with or picked up. Anaye - Born from hideous and unnatural human practices, these monstrous deities are known from the mythology of Native American tribes, and are said to take on a wide variety of shapes and characteristics. Some of them became enormous monsters that were then slain by heroes, but some of them supposedly became concepts that still live on today, such as old age or illness. Anchanchu - Mentioned in the Aymara folklore of Bolivia and Peru, these South American demons deceive unwary travelers with their smiles and friendly mannerisms, before afflicting them with deadly diseases. They are also said to drain the blood of humans while they sleep, and it is alleged that their presence is always accompanied by whirlwinds. The Aymara tend to avoid rivers and isolated places for fear of being attacked by Anchanchu. Anchimayen - Created from the corpses of small children by Chilean dark magic users, these undead constructs usually appear as emaciated infants, but can also change into blazing balls of light. They use this form in a similar manner to the will-o-the-wisp, and are known to lure travelers towards their masters. Anchored Entity - Often demons or ghosts, this class of being will attach themselves to a particular object, and will literally inhabit it and follow it around until it desires to emerge. They are often mistaken for cursed objects, because of their habit of using their objects to enter people's houses and kill them. As with true cursed objects, they can be forcibly removed from the objects by salting and burning. Ancient Astronaut - Thought to be responsible for the genesis and technological advancement of human society, these highly advanced aliens are capable of simulating the power of deities using technology. They are known all across the world in many different religions, and are depicted in a large quantity of mythological art, often riding flying vehicles. Speculation that they are related to the Greys has recently arisen. Ancitif - Often mistakenly classified as a true white-eyed demon, this evil entity was first seen in the 17th century, and seems to act as a harbinger to the appearance of a more powerful demon such as Beelzebub. It is capable of possessing people, and can jump from body to body, leaving its victims unsure of where they are and ignorant to what the being made them do. Andandara - Rapacious African monsters that resemble big cats such as lions or leopards, these creatures are known from the folklore of the Azande people, and will capture women and force them to have intercourse, after which the victims will give birth to both humans and cats. Due to some kind of magic, the women will then be forced to suckle the cats. Andandara also have the ability to kill someone simply by maintaining eye contact them, much like the basilisk or other monsters. Andira - Assuming the forms of enormous black bats, these vampiric creatures are the reincarnations of South American magic users or shamans who used their gifts for evil purposes in life, and now use their fangs to drain the blood of their victims while emitting shrill screeches. They are roughly 1.20 meters in height and have 3 meter wingspans. However, they can be banished by exorcisms, and are not able to attack people who are in the same tribe that they belonged to when they were alive. Andras - Hunting and killing human victims, this brutal demon is known to attempt to murder and brutalize even those magic users who attempt to summon it, with departure from a protective circle meaning instant death. It is well-known for infecting its human victims with an uncontrollable and murderous rage, and has sometimes been said to start wars using this ability. Androgyne - Existing before humanity split off into two biological sexes according to the ancient Greek creation myth, these nephilim-like beings have two pairs of limbs and the biological features of both males and females. They are said to have been extremely vain and ambitious, and attempted to reach Mount Olympus in order to usurp the throne of Zeus. Because of this, the deity punished them by splitting them apart into the males and females that we see in the human population today. Android - Created by rogue robotics laboratories in Japan, these sentient machines have been fitted with the technology to mimic the appearance of humans that they encounter. This powerful ability has led to government officials attempting to shut down their production, though this operation has been unsuccessful as of yet. Due to the chaos that this effort produced, small groups of the robots have been scattered all about the world. Andromedan - Hailing from their namesake galaxy, these alien beings resemble humanoids with bluish skin, and are alleged to have visited planet Earth in 1954 according to the contactee culture. Their flesh is made from plasma or energy, which allows them to manipulate electrical impulses in the air around them. They are mostly benevolent, and are part of a federation that seeks to remove hostile aliens from Earth's vicinity. Angakkuq - Spoken of in the folklore of North American and Greenland, these powerful magic users gain their power from a series of archaic spells and incantations, and will often be accompanied by a familiar spirit. Using the aid of this spirit, they are able to fly and call upon the abilities of various animals at will, as well as interpreting dreams and communicating with ghosts and the undead. Angazhan - Representing savage strength and destruction, this terrifying monkey-like demon is found in the jungles and dense forests all across the world, and is worshipped by large groups of wildmen and faeries. It seems to enjoy possessing human victims and producing remorseless serial killers that murder other people like livestock, seemingly as a statement on the treatment of other animals. Angel - Although long assumed to be nothing but a figment of spirituality and religion by professional hunters, evidence has recently come to light that confirms that these beings are real. They are divided up into several different 'choirs' depending on their power or appearance, and believe that they serve the Judaeo-Christian God through various means, often watching over humanity. Angel of Peace - First manifesting to three young cousins in 1916 while they were in a field near Portugal's Cova da Iria, this frightening ultraterrestrial trickster appeared as a glowing young man dressed in white clothing, and floated towards the children before telling them to pray and make sacrifices. The being then vanished, leaving the children completely paralysed and obsessively repeating a single prayer that the entity had taught them. They were unable to move until sundown that day. Angelystor - Appearing in churches across Wales on the 31st of July, these strange beings are thought to be similar to faeries in origin, and will foretell the dates on which everyone who sees them will die. The original source of the grim beings seems to be a several thousand year old yew tree that appears to be impossible to remove. Anggitay - With the upper body of a human female and the lower quarters of a horse, with a single horn in their foreheads. They seem to be nocturnal, and are seen in deep forest areas. Like many other supernatural creatures, they are attracted to gemstones and other precious materials. Angha - Common in the literature and art of Middle Eastern cultures, these emerald-feathered hybrid birds are often confused with the Simurgh because of their similarly canine heads. Their name literally translates as 'emerald' because of the striking color of their feathers, which are considered to be very valuable in some cultures. Angolan Witch Spider - Feeding on dogs and other mid-sized mammals, these enormous predatory arachnids originally migrated from a South American region into Texas and North America. They can sometimes reach such extreme sizes that it takes several gunshots to kill them and prevent them from seriously harming surrounding humans. Anhangá - This Brazilian spirit takes on the form of a white deer with glowing red eyes, and protects the wildlife of local forests and other ecosystems. It targets those who hunt animals, and is known to use powerful magic illusions to drive them mad and force them to kill themselves. Although it is sometimes said to be a demon because of how people fear it, this is incorrect. Animalito - Camouflaging themselves as lily pads or reeds, these Spanish creatures are often kept as companions by dark magic users because of their ability to grant wishes and heal various maladies. However, they constantly demand payment in the form of human flesh, and if they are not paid then they will eat their masters alive as vengeance. This flesh must either be from their masters, or from an unbaptized child. Animus - Once considered genuine psychology though now known to be supernatural, these humanoid beings are the manifestation of a person's unconscious mind. These beings will become visible and even capable of interacting with the physical world during traumatic events for their hosts. There are, however, stories of people being able to control and manipulate their animus. Aniukha - Most closely resembling bizarre hybrids of insects and rodents, these vampiric Siberian creatures have coats of thin black hair interspersed with solid chunks of carapace. They have long snouts with ferocious fangs, and use their intelligence and various brands of intricate trickery to lure children and elderly victims deep into forests, where they will be killed and drained of blood. However, garlic can repel the chupacabra-like beasts. Aniwye - These giant skunks are rare in North America, and will kill large prey using their extreme odour that has been repurposed into an effective chemical attack. When members of this species are killed, they will rapidly shrink to the size of a regular skunk. Anjana - Small and beautiful, these Spanish faeries offer gifts and magical help to those that they view as pure of heart, and are able to communicate with and control the essential natural elements of the environment around them. If summoned, they will aid injured animals and those who become lost in the forest, but will punish those that they perceive to be wicked. Unlike other faeries, they are almost entirely benevolent. Ankou - Wearing long black robes and carrying a scythe, this deathly being is seen around Cornwall, and will haunt and watch those who live around graveyards. It acts as a death omen, and will enter households to collect the souls of the recently deceased. Anngiaq - Small but terrifying, these vicious Greenlandic undead are born from the souls and bodies of children whose miscarriage or death is covered up by the parents. They have the ability to inflict a deadly withering curse on those that they come into contact with, making them incredibly dangerous despite their small and puny bodies. Anophelius - Resembling monstrous humanoid mosquitoes, the females of this species possess paddle-like wings and long bony proboscises with which they drain the blood of their prey. The males of the species are unintelligent and humanoid, save for their unnatural and sphincter-like mouths. It is thought that they are closely related to European vampires, and have evolved their unique behavior as an adaptation for long-ranged feeding. Anput - Often referred to as the consorts to Anubis in ancient Egyptian times, these canine faeries are capable of shapeshifting into the forms of beautiful human women. They are often associated with the process of mummification and burial, and are sometimes said to have spawned the foul creature known as Ammit. Antaeus - Fathered by an ancient Greek deity, these monstrous ogres are named after the first individual of the species, who was killed by Heracles after menacing a particular stretch of road in North Africa. Because of their godly heritage, they are literally indestructible when in contact with the ground, and must be lifted off it in order to be killed. It is said that they are close to being half giant and half human in genetics. Antarctic Godzilla - Famously enormous in size, this massive aquatic mammal was witnessed by a Japanese Antarctic research vessel, the crew of which described it has having a hair-covered body and a long black fin on its back. It had a monkey-like head with pointed ears, and was originally mistaken for a number of oil drums dumped into the ocean. There is speculation that it may be related to the ningen. Antediluvian - This ancient but dangerous society of relict humanoids can still be found in Middle Eastern areas, where they use atomic weapons to keep humans away from them. Most of their society was wiped out in the Biblical Flood, though a few survived by retreating below ground. They are now fixated on rebuilding their cities. Anteros - Hideous fae, these ancient Greek creatures feed on feelings of heartbreak and unrequited love in local human populations, and are capable of inducing these feelings in their victims. There are rumors that they were created by an ancient deity in order to provide company for the lonely Eros, though this evidently backfired. If their skin is touched by a human, that human may get lead poisoning. Anthousai - Often mistaken for beds of hyacinth flowers when they camouflage themselves in areas of thick grass and undergrowth, these ancient Greek nymphs represent flowers and other beautiful plants. Very little is known about their behavior and abilities, because they are thought to be very similar to other kinds of nymph such as the Leimonides. Anthropoi Hypogen - Often confused with the dero, these subterranean humanoids are thought to represent an errant subspecies of homo sapiens that evolved for a cave-dwelling lifestyle. They are given scant mentions in the writings of Ancient Greek explorers, who seem to suggest that they either live in India or Africa. Antonio Picholas Alien - First appearing to its namesake local Spanish peddler in El Gasco in 1945, this terrifying ultraterrestrial resembled a tall humanoid dressed in bronze armour, with a tall head and what appeared to be epaulets on its shoulders, and manifested after the witness heard inhuman screeching coming from a nearby forest. The entity stared at its victim with its glowing eyes, and Antonio suddenly went into a seizure, vomiting blood and later committing suicide. Anubis - Representing mummification and cemeteries in the ancient Egyptian pantheon of gods, this powerful deity is sometimes believed to be the son of Ra himself. He has the head of an Egyptian golden wolf, rather than a jackal as is commonly asserted. In mythology, he was said to attend the weighing of hearts before souls passed into the Afterlife. Anubite - Often mistaken for their namesake deity, these incredibly rare ancient Egyptian shapeshifters resemble humans with the heads of hairless jackals in their true form. They tend to be 8-10ft tall, and have the unsettling ability to appear inside people's homes using teleportation. Although one would expect that they would be confined to Egypt, they have recently spread to North America. Anuk-Ité - Sometimes simply known as 'two faces', these North American monsters resemble humans with one beautiful and attractive face, but another, hideous one of the backs of their heads. If someone makes eye contact with the monstrous face, they will be paralyzed and forced to wait until the monster comes back to murder and eat them. They are sometimes referred to as bogeymen to frighten the children of Native American tribes. Anunnaki - First mentioned in the extensive mythology of Babylonian societies, these strange and powerful beings are thought to be close relatives of Grey aliens, and to have monitored humanity since it first evolved. They all seem to share a delusion that they are deities, and design their technology around this fallacy. Their home planet is known as Nibiru. Anzû - Either resembling a bipedal griffin-like monster or a giant bird with the head of a lion, this enormous Middle Eastern demon is associated with lightning and mountainous terrain, and is believed to have stolen an important artifact from the Mesopotamian gods in ancient times, leading to it either being slain by Marduk or Ninurta. It is believed to have been able to produce vast amounts of fire and water from its mouth, as well as to have had powers similar to the Thunderbird. Ao Ao - Either described as a monstrous peccary or a bizarre, bipedal sheep-like beast with massive fangs, this savage South American predator is thought to be one of the seven legendary monsters of Guaraní mythology, garnering its name from the repetitive sound it makes when pursuing its prey. It is said to have the ability to reproduce quickly and make more of its kind, giving it the title of a fertility spirit. Strangely, they cannot kill potential victims that climb palm trees. Aoandon - Blazing with an unholy blue fire, these Japanese demons take on the form of a young girl wielding a blue lantern. It is the incarnation of mass human fear, and will often accidentally be summoned after over 100 ghost stories are told in one sitting. Apalala - Spoken of in the folklore of the Buddhist religion, this mighty subspecies of naga is said to have originated from a magic user who once restrained the dragons of a particular lake region. He demanded gifts from the locals to continue this service, but they eventually forgot and stopped doing this ritual. The man became wrathful and used a charm to turn himself into the first of these deadly dragons. Apaosha - Resembling monstrous black horses, these abominable Zoroastrian demons are capable of bringing drought and famine to everywhere they go. According to ancient scripture, the first individual of the species was slain by the guardian deity of rainfall after his worshipers started dying of thirst and he became weakened. Apkallu - Sent by the ancient Middle-Eastern deities to introduce society and culture to the primitive human race, these strange faery creatures resemble humanoid eagles with the tails of fish. They are mostly amphibious, and have advanced knowledge of architecture, writing and agriculture. There is currently some debate as to if they are faeries or demigods. Apocalypse Locust - Roughly the size of horses, these monstrous insects are used as the cavalry and shock troops of the demonic hordes that are predicted to descend on Earth during the biblical Apocalypse. They use their long and venomous tails to kill and torment any human that does not have the mark of God, and are said to be commanded by the demon known as Abaddon. Apotamkin - Once beautiful women who were cursed by a dark magic user, these bright red river serpents are referred to in the mythology of the Native Americans, and are said to be covered in fins that resemble hair. They behave in a similar manner to bogeymen, snatching unsupervised children and dragging them into the depths. Apple Tree Man - Guarding apple trees in orchards across Britain, these obsessive faeries can be both a blessing and a burden to farmers, seeing as they will attack and chase those who attempt to steal fruit from their trees. If a genuine harvester wants to pick some apples, they are forced to carry out long rituals and offer the last apples of their crops to the irritating faeries. Après - Very rarely seen outside of European Heraldic sources, these common bovines appear as large bulls with vaguely ursine hind-quarters, sometimes only differing from regular cows by their bear-like tails. They are much heavier and hardier than regular cattle due to their ursine physiology, and are thus sometimes used as mounts or battle chargers. Apsara - Mentioned in the religions and Hindu traditions of Asia and India, these Heavenly nymphs usually resemble unnaturally beautiful human women with thin waists and wide hips, as well as long flowing garments. They are well-known for their dancing skills, and are commonly sent by powerful deities such as Indra to monitor humans that have special connections to them, often deliberately distracting them from their practices if they get too powerful. This is often done through seduction. Apsasu - Closely resembling sphinxes, these hybrid creatures guard the entrances to temples and holy buildings across the Middle East, and are thought to sometimes spawn from the souls of deceased demigods. They are worshipped by the human population around them, because they will otherwise cause devastating earthquakes. Apshait - Corpse eating beetles, these creatures were spoken of in the legendary Egyptian Book of the Dead, but became confused with lore surrounding the tortoise in later times. When they feed on dead bodies, the souls of the deceased sometimes temporarily reappear as ghosts and kill the beetles. Aptenodytes Albus - Discovered underneath Antarctic, these terrifying aberrations resemble pallid penguins with slit-like eyes and claw-like wings, and are thought to have been bred from an isolated species of penguin by the ancient deities mentioned in the writings of HP Lovecraft. According to sculptures found in their subterranean territory, they are said to have retreated to heated caverns once Antarctica became glaciated in ancient history. Aq Bars - Originally found in the mountains of Turkey, but since having migrated across to Russia, these flying predators resemble large snow leopards with the wings of hawks or eagles. They are thought to be closely related to griffins or senmurvs due to their extremely similar biology. Their image is used on the emblem for a particular Russian nation. Aqrabuamelu - Vicious hybrids, these beasts were created by Tiamat during the times of Babylonian society to wage war against younger deities such as the Judeo-Christian God. They will act as willing servants and guards to older gods, and are known to have been positioned as guards of the Underworld because of this trait. They can shapeshift into human form to chase down new gods and their associates, becoming humans to camouflage themselves. Aquatic Ape - Theorized by some to represent an early stage of human evolution, these relict hairy humanoids live on the coasts of Africa, where they feed on shellfish on the seashore. They were first discovered in the 1960s, and led to speculations about the evolutionary origins of merfolk, for which they are often mistaken. Despite being much rarer today, they are to be found in small numbers among mangrove swamps. Aqueous Devil - Assuming the forms of beautiful human women, these demonic creatures prey upon humans in general, and will drag unwary onlookers into bodies of water such as lakes or rivers whenever the opportunity presents itself. Not only are they dangerous physical predators, they have the ability to raise unearthly storms and sink ships with ease. Arachne - These human-spider hybrids are believed to have been created from a single individual who challenged a Greek deity to a weaving competition, and was transformed into a monster as punishment. Nowadays, these beasts can be found in caves and other dark areas among the Grecian Islands. Arachne Gigans - Also known as the 'Siren Spider' due to its strange method of obtaining prey items, this monstrous arachnid is said to have been responsible for numerous springtime disappearances around the Tomb of Issoire in France's Paris before September 14th, 1894 when a group of policemen finally killed the beast. They did this after hearing a strange and beautiful song and witnessing a man being drawn down into a large tunnel under the hypnotic influence of the song, only to be devoured. Arae - Terrifying wrathful demons, these beings function as living curses, and will tenaciously track down humans that are responsible for the demise of souls in the Greek Underworld. They are usually summoned and sent by desperate ghosts or disembodied souls to avenge their deaths, and are thought to be similar to the erinyes. Araǵanaqlta’a - Appearing as hybrids of snakes and centipedes, these Argentinian monsters are commonly associated with water, rainbows and storms in the mythologies of local cultures. They are said to be able to control serpents and reptiles in their vicinity using pheromones, and are often found in caves that connect to sources of water. Terrifyingly, they can also shapeshift. Aralez - Referred to in the mythology of Armenia and Asia, these winged dogs are found in mountainous areas, and have been known to swoop down on battlefields to lick the wounds of the dying. This act would apparently heal the wounded warriors, and thus the dogs are thought to be angelic in origin. Aranda - Inhabiting deep Australian rivers and lakes, using the depth and choppiness of the water to disguise their massive size, these monstrous aquatic serpents will grab fishermen and swallow them in single bites. For this reason, they are often represented as boogeymen in the local culture, designed to discourage foolhardy people from going fishing alone. Arătare - Born from the amassed wrathful souls of victims of genocides or other mass slaughters, these incredibly fast-moving ghosts travel in swarms and kill their victims by moving through them. These victims will be frozen to death and their souls will join the hordes of the vengeful souls. They are most known from the writings of Romanian mythology. Arbularyo - Usually benevolent despite their frightening appearance, these magic users are found in the Philippines, and are known to use herbs and oils to cure diseases and exorcise demons. Although they usually use natural resources, they have sometimes been observed to use supernatural prayers and witchcraft spells to deal with paranormal ailments such as possessions. They are still common in areas of the Philippines where medical facilities are not readily available. Archangel - Some of the most powerful heavenly beings that are commonly seen on Earth, these angels are tasked with looking after and guiding lower classes of angels and holy beings such as saints. They are assigned to communicating and carrying out God's plans for humanity, and are the commanding officers of other angels. Archdemon - Obscene parodies of the holy power of Archangels, these terrifying powerful demons are commonly held to be the physical representations of the Seven Deadly Sins, and command vast hosts of lesser demons. The definition of one of these creatures is obscure, and seems to change over time, sometimes incorporating pagan gods and individuals such as Satan and Leviathan in Judaeo-Christian theology. Occult traditions name them as the Kings of Hell. Archon - Merciless beings, these angel-like entities were known from Gnostic tradition, and are said to have originated from seven all-powerful creatures that were captured and forced to become the planets in the solar system. Nowadays, their descendants make up the ranks of the archons, and are covered in blazing holy energy that can blind all those who see them. They are hostile towards humans and deities, though fight demons for an unknown reason. Archura - Protecting the flora and fauna in the deep forests of Turkish regions, these tricky shapeshifting faeries usually appear as peasants with glowing eyes and slightly animal-like features. They enjoy mimicking the voices of loved ones in order to lure unwary passersby into caves where they will literally tickle them to death, and are famous for kidnapping young women. However, they are more mischievous and territorial than evil, and are known to prevent cattle from getting lost in woods. Arctopithecus - Clambering slowly through South American treetops despite their rounded and heavy bodies, these small primates are described in medieval bestiaries as having faces like human children and three long claws on their fingers. Their names literally translate as 'bear ape' because of their bulky and almost ursine physique. Arenotelicon - Viciously mauling large victims, these monstrous mustelids have spiked fur running down their backs and large claws with which they dismember their prey. They are found mostly in temperate forests around Germany, and were mentioned in several medieval European bestiaries. There used to be speculation that they were related to tigers. Argiduna - Related to the evil-dispelling faeries known as Guargi, these incandescent dwarves usually manifest as small glowing objects, much like will-o-the-wisps, and will wander around the Spanish countryside at night in search of lost travelers and other humans in need of aid. They will eventually all gather in small, magical temples, and if the humans that see them decide to follow them to the structures then they will rediscover objects and trinkets that they'd thought they had lost. Argus Panoptes - Covered in hundreds of eternally watchful eyes, these strange Greek giants are often used as watchmen and guards by magic users. They have enormous strength, and are able to last without sleep because each pair of their eyes sleep at different times. Nowadays, their name has come to be synonymous with invasion of privacy. Argyeos - Produced from silver and gold by the ancient Greek deity Hephaestus, these enchanted hounds were presented to the benevolent king known as Alcinous as a reward for his aid of the Argonauts. Alcinous ruled an island off the coast of Eastern Europe, and although his kingdom is no longer there, the constructs still guard the island in hope that he will return. Ariā - Usually taking the forms of wolves or birds, these Māori spirits are sometimes regarded as a kind of tulpa or animus, as they are spiritual representations of physical animals or objects. They are thought to be connected to the Atua, which are a form of powerful ancestral spirit in the mythology of the native people of New Zealand. Magic users can capture the Ariās of their victims in order to gain power over them. Arica Monster - These mammals are relatives of kangaroos that are found in South American deserts, and are often confused for living theropod dinosaurs. They were first seen in 1980, and appear to be curious about humans, often surrounding cars that pass through their Chilean desert habitat. No-one has been harmed by these creatures, even though they are presumed to be carnivorous. Ariel of Moab - Sometimes speculated to be the products of interbreeding between humans and Nephilim, these lion-like humanoids are found in small tribes across the Middle-East, and are experts with swords and other forms of weaponry. They have only ever been successfully killed by saints or other heroes chosen by the Judaeo-Christian God, and their name literally translates to 'lion of God' in the local language. Arifa - Found in Morocco and the surrounding African areas, these beautiful feminine Djinn are rare among their kind due to their universally-peaceful disposition, making them exceptionally easy to work with by human magic users. They are regarded as beings that conform to the Islamic religion, and are viewed with the same respect as guardian angels by the local Moroccan people. They usually have long brown hair and bring the floral scent of jasmines with them when they manifest in foggy form. Arkan Sonney - Originating in the Isle of Man, these faeries take on the form of hedgehog like creatures, and are said to bring good luck to whoever catches them. For this reason, they have become very skittish, and will use magic to deter pursuers. Aroteh - Controlling the plants and livestock on Earth before humanity ever evolved, these prehistoric South American faeries control crops and food, and are worshiped in farming rituals. Some researchers have suggested that they may represent the magic-user population of an ancient and long-extinct race. Arrach - Large and spidery, these ferocious Scottish faeries are so fast and agile that they are hardly ever seen despite their considerable size and ruthless hunting of nearby humans. They are mostly found in nests of multiple individuals inside derelict buildings in highland mountains, though have been known to emerge and attack those who use magic in their vicinity. Arragouset - Often confused with the completely harmless shellycoats, these French faeries are armed to the teeth and use viciously spiked shells as armor. It is said that they emerged from the sea in ancient times, and massacred a generation of husbands and males, in order to take their wives and create children. Their descendants are capable fishermen today, and the faeries themselves seem to have disappeared, though there is speculation that they may just be in hiding. Arranca-Línguas - Resembling enormous gorillas or hairy humanoids, these terrifying South American predators are normally found around the Araguaia River in Brazil, and are known to feed almost exclusively on the tongues of their victims, attacking by night and ripping them out of the mouths of animals ranging in size from goats to oxen, horses and people. Some connections have been drawn between the creatures and a 1929 outbreak of a disease affecting cattle, causing itching of the tongue. Artabatitae - Moving around on four legs, these bizarre African hybrid beasts were mentioned in the reports of ancient Greek explorers, and were said to live like animals on the plains. They are omnivorous, and have a very basic, tribal society that focuses on hunting and gathering resources. Not much is known about them, as their species is incredibly rare nowadays. Artrellia - Killing and eating humans that pass below them, these tree-climbing reptiles are known from the dense forests of Papua New Guinea, and were first discovered by explorers in the 1930s. It is thought that they are 12-40ft long from head to tail, and juvenile specimens of the creatures have been captured for study before. Arzamas Monster - After being blown off course during a hurricane in 1719, this 30ft long dragon was discovered in a Russian field. Creatures like it have not been seen since, which leads to speculation that the species must either be very rare or endangered. It was described as having long wings and a thin sail of skin on its back, which was probably used for heat regulation. Arzshenk - Resembling minotaurs, these djinn were mentioned in Middle Eastern lore as living in mighty castles filled with plundered riches. They are often treated as rulers or monarchs by other djinn around them, because of their amazing physical power and combat skill. Because of this, they have been known to amass small armies of supernatural beings at their command. Asag - Known from the folkloric traditions of the Middle East, these monstrous demons resemble huge creatures covered in spiked and impenetrable rocks. They are said to be so hideous that their presence makes surrounding sources of water boil, though this effect is more likely to be caused by dark magic and electrical fluctuations around the creatures. Asdeev - Powerful white dragons, these creatures are very rare nowadays, though can still be found at the summits of some mountains in Iran. They have the ability to produce intense cold and frostbite in their victims, which seems odd in contrast to their warm habitat. If threatened, the dragons are known to be able to vanish into thin air. Asena - Roaming the grasslands and countryside of Turkey, these blue wolves are thought to be associated with the birth of the nation according to local mythology. It is said that one individual of their species found an abandoned child and nursed them back to health, and eventually gave birth to their half-human offspring. These beings became the first Turks. A-Senee-Ki-Wakw - Destructive and brutish, these monstrous giants are comprised of living stone, and are said to be some of the first beings created by an ancient North American deity. They were so large and aggressive that they hindered the development of humans and other animals on the planet, and so the deity resolved to destroy them. Some still survive in remote corners of the continent. Ashiarai Yashiki - Sometimes thought to have been the work of a trickster, this bizarre phenomenon occurred during the Edo Period in Japan, when enormous hairy feet would come crashing through the roofs of manor houses, and a booming voice would demand to have its foot washed. If the foot was ignored, it would thrash about and destroy large sections of the houses. It stopped when the owners of the houses moved out, leading some to believe that it may have been a targeted supernatural punishment. Ashi-Magari - Wrapping themselves around the bodies of sleeping humans overnight and impeding their ability to move, these Japanese creatures are usually invisible. They are soft in texture, like a kitten or a wad of cotton, and do not seem to be particularly hostile despite their annoying behavior. Ashinagatenaga - Spindly humanoids, these beings always travel on each-others' shoulders in order to best combine their bizarre morphologies. One of them has incredibly long arms and short legs, whereas the other has long legs and stubby arms. They use the combinations of these traits to hunt fish and small animals, as well as somehow bringing bad weather to local human villages. Ashtar – First contacted by a cult-like group of humans in 1947, this powerful alien being is thought to be related to the Nordics, and acts much like a deity. It emits an aura that allows the nearby humans to communicate with the dead as well as other metaphysical beings such as deities and angels. This ability has been used by numerous cult leaders to channel technological advancements and spiritual knowledge. Askafroa - Destructive relatives of dryads, these Scandinavian creatures are known to kidnap and transform innocent human passersby into wooden visages of their former selves. It is for this reason that a traditional Ash Wednesday ritual is devoted to warding the beasts off, and it is said that anyone who breaks the branches of the trees in their forests will become ill and die. Aspidochelone - Sometimes referred to as a whale or a turtle, this sea monster is actually a giant supernatural fish. It has a back that is covered in ridges and algae, and so can resemble an island haven for sailors at a distance, which works to entice human victims to mount the creature. When they do this, the beast plunges back down into the depths of the ocean and drowns the men. Asrai - Closely related to merfolk and nixies, these nymph-like aquatic faeries live in English seas and lakes, and are described as being lithe humanoids with green hair and webbed feet, and are also known to literally melt into puddles of water if they are exposed to sunlight for too long. Their wet skin is said to be so cold that touching it burns like fire and leaves permanent marks on those who do. They sometimes attempt to lure humans into the water, but are repelled by profanity. Asrapa - Usually appearing as completely nude humanoid women, these Indian vampires are said to have either been born from a sage named Kashyapa and his wife Muni, or to have been created as tulpas when Brahma was angry, and are described as shapeshifters that can reanimate the dead using magic given to them by the goddess Kali. The ghoulish witch-like creatures will wander cemetaries, and are known to consume the flesh of any humans they find, be they alive or dead. Asswere - In spite of their comical sounding name, these donkey-headed humanoids are vicious and incredibly physically strong, capable of trampling enemies to death under their powerful hooves. They are shapeshifters, and are thus indistinguishable from other humanoids when not in their animal forms. Although their name may bring werewolves to mind, the creatures are capable of transforming at will, and are not affected by the phase of the moon. As is easily guessed, the first mention of their existence was in modern fantasy literature. Astomi - Known from Greek and Roman lore, these strange people exist in isolated island communities, and have evolved to not need to eat or drink. Instead, they simply feed of the odors produced by food products and flowers. However, because of this, they can be killed by strong or foul smells. Asura - Although they may look completely alien and otherworldly, these Hindu beings are in fact a race of giant and powerful demigods known for their capacity for both good or evil. They are sometimes associated with other Hindu deities, and are often known as 'lords' due to the literal translation of their name. Some individuals have taken this to heart and now demand to be worshipped. Asurakumāra - One of the many species of Jainist Bhavanavāsin deities, these Asian demons are named for the term 'fiendish youth', and are known to manifest on lower levels of Hell and on Earth to encourage other demons and malevolent spirits to fight amongst themselves, feeding on the misery and chaos this generates. They usually dwell in palaces in the uppermost parts of the Jainist equivalent of Hell, known as Ratnaprabhā, along with other god-like entities such as Asuras and Devas. Aswang - These monsters originate from the Philippines, and are shapeshifters that consume unborn fetuses from the wombs of their mothers using their long and prehensile tongues. They can be killed through decapitation, as well as using a whip made from the barb of a stingray. Atargatis - Responsible for the protection and fertility of an area in Syria, these godlike merfolk were worshipped as deities in the culture of the surrounding areas. There are some suggestions that they are not native to the area in which they are found nowadays, and some have speculated that they may have originally been Greek. Atdlit - Hunting and persecuting kayakers, these demonic faeries are known from the Inuit folklore of Greenland and Canada, and are said to resemble hobgoblin-like humanoids with no noses. They are aquatic creatures, and will drag the humans that they judge to be the most skilled in kayaking down into their underwater abode where they will be kept in painful captivity for the rest of their lives. The Atdlit are the lower class of the Ingnerssuak, and are thus related to all of the other species. Atë - Born as the eldest daughter of the ancient Greek deity Zeus, this manipulative being feeds on religion and faith in the human population around it, causing extreme bad luck and mental illness. It is capable of moving at extreme speeds, and can control the minds of those that it feeds on, forcing them into making bad decisions that will ultimately lead to their deaths. Aten - Powerful elementals, these flaming beings resemble suns with grasping claws at the ends of their luminous rays, which they can use to manipulate their environment and accept offerings from their worshippers. They are known to have been revered as gods in the early portion of ancient Egyptian society, being held as aspects of Ra. Athach - Inhabiting lonely places such as gorges and lochs between mountains, these enormous Scottish ogres are generally poorly described across mythology and folklore, but are usually said to have three arms. They are brutish and unintelligent, but their extreme strength and physical bulk make them valid threats. Atlantean - These aquatic people are members of a mythological ancient Greek society that was situated on an island that sunk into the ocean, but whose people had developed diving suit technology. This technology is based on the Antikythera mechanism, and allows them to build new suits as the generations of their society go by. Sightings of the rare people are often confused with those of merfolk. Atmospheric Beast - Having evolved in the Early Cambrian period, these creatures are relatives of jellyfish and other primitive life forms. They live high in our stratosphere, and are sometimes mistaken for UFOs when they are seen at ground level. Atomy - Tiny faeries, these beings can only be seen as disembodied balls of light by the naked human eye, and are not much more visible to smaller creatures either. They occur around Europe, and live in hollowed-out areas in tall trees. They enjoy mischief and practical jokes, and are often too small to be noticed by their victims before the prank is carried out. Atosis - Spoken of in Native American folklore, this reptilian pagan god is said to roam swampy areas and deep forests. It will capture human victims and impale them on sharp wooden sticks, and then use these instruments to cook them over a large fire. Attorcroppes - Hiding among the undergrowth in German forests, these serpentine faeries appear as small snakes with humanoid limbs. They are aggressive towards all those that they deem to the invading their territory, and their small size is not an indicator of their deadly venom. Despite their lethal abilities, they are astoundingly curious about humans, and will often explore cities. Atua - Regarded as the spirits of long-dead ancestors in the Māori culture of New Zealand, these ethereal beings are said to each have dominion over different areas of the natural world, acting like elementals in this respect. Some Māori people can trace their ancestry back to one of these spiritual beings having offspring with human partners. Although they are usually invisible, they can construct wispy bodies for themselves out of natural resources. Atuikakura - Enormous sea cucumbers, these creatures live in shallow bays across Japan, and will attach themselves to pieces of driftwood in order to move. Sometimes, however, they have been known to mistake ships for driftwood and attach themselves to them, inadvertently dragging them beneath the waves. When the creatures are startled, they will thrash around and create extremely fast currents. Atunkai - Appearing as a massive beaver-like creature, these North American lake monsters exist in very small numbers across the entire continent, and also range into Canada. They are thought to have originated when a bear fell into a cursed pool of water, and was thus mutated into a fiendish supernatural creature. Âu Cơ - Youthful and beautiful, these Vietnamese faeries have the ability to heal ailments and close wounds, and are often known to transform into crane-like beings if they are frightened by potential aggressors. They give birth to over 100 children from egg sacs, and are said to have spawned the first residents of Vietnam in the local creation myth. Auðumbla - Feeding on the salt that congeals on enormous rocks or mountains, these primordial cattle are regarded as having created the first humans from licking this mineral in the Norse creation myth. Rivers of milk continually flow from their enormous udders, and provide nourishment for various groups of ancient giants, including Ymir himself. Auli - First seen by human witnesses in 1900 in Ethiopia and other African areas, these primitive dugongs feed on reeds and water plants. They mostly live in swamps and marshes, though are able to use their vestigial limbs to clamber up onto land occasionally to feed on terrestrial grass. Auñ Pana - Resembling massive piranhas with grey-green fur and long human-like arms, these bizarre Brazilian fish are usually found in deep water caves and among coral reefs. However, there are several interesting stories about the creatures using magical abilities to tear down bridges and buildings built above their watery habitat, and then consuming the occupants. Aunyaina - Resembling a monstrous humanoid with the tusks of a boar, this creature is known from the South American folklore of Brazil, in which it is regarded as both a magic user and a cannibalistic giant. Although it will hunt and kill anyone it can, it is particularly fond of consuming children who wandered away from their camps and into the forest. There is a story in which it chases a group of children up a tree, only to fall to the ground and die when the vine which it was climbing broke. Aura Reader - Slightly different to other humans, these people are capable of seeing the distinct energy fields around all living things, and can interpret these visions to garner the being's temperament, past experiences, species and potential magical prowess. These abilities are often present from birth, but they can be trained and honed using magic and meditation, leading to Aura Readers often viewing themselves as spiritual people. An aura is a hazy glow of colours that represent a soul. Aurumvorax - Making their nests by burrowing down into solid rocks in alpine forests, these strange mustelids consume precious metals to supplement their mostly carnivorous diet. One of their favourite inorganic dishes is gold, and it is from this that they gain the metallic colour and texture of their fur. Although they are often associated with dwarves nowadays, they are thought to be a recently emerged species, as they were only mentioned in modern fantasy literature. Autochthon - Similar to the Nāga of India, these hybrid creatures resemble humanoids with the lower halves of great serpents or dragons, and their ranks are known to include such mythic characters as Cecrops and Ekhion. According to Greek mythology, they first appeared during a time when the gods left the planet and distorted reality on Earth, meaning that organisms aged backwards and beings spawned from the soil, giving the Autochthons their name of 'earth-sprung'. Automaton - Capable of thinking and feeling like humans, these marvelous ancient Greek constructs are made from a mix of magic and technological wonders such as the Antikythera mechanism. They are thought to have been forged by Hephaestus or possibly Daedalus, and famous examples include the bronze giant known as Talos or the fire-breathing Khalkotauroi. The best automatons have superhuman strength and are virtually invulnerable to conventional weaponry. Avalerion - Described as being slightly larger than eagle, these strange predatory birds are found in Europe and South Asia, and were first recorded by Pliny. They lay a single egg every 60 years, and only two individuals of the species are allowed to exist at a time, which means that the parents drown themselves. Avasati - Possessive South American spirits, these forest-dwelling demons are capable of completely taking over a human host within three days, eventually totally controlling their movements and thoughts. They will attack members of a group one-by-one until their possession efforts are successful, and will then attempt to hide their evil intentions for as long as possible. Like other demons, they can be removed from their hosts using exorcism, and have an aversion to sacred symbols and priests. Avatar - Representing Hindu deities on Earth, these powerful entities either appear as angelic humanoids or hybrids of humans and some variety of holy animal. They perform numerous jobs on the planet for their representative deity, including killing their enemies or setting up temples and places of worship. Despite their peaceful demeanor, they are strong warriors. Avelainya - Appearing as either bright white or entirely black depending on whether they bring good fortune or bad omens, these spectral Spanish butterflies are in some respects similar to the cadejo, seeing as their different colours correspond to their magical associations. Some researchers have suggested that they may be relatives of creatures known as Cuques, which are glowing worms or supernatural caterpillars that appear overnight and are likened to the souls of the dead. Aveley Abductor - Pestering an otherwise-normal English family in 1974 after their car was intercepted by a glowing blue UFO and enveloped in green fog, leading to an episode of missing time for all of them before they returned back to their house, where they were plagued by poltergeist activity and strange noises. Eventually, they all underwent hypnosis and discovered that they had been abducted by bat-like alien beings, as well as tall ultraterrestrials in medical scrubs. Avernale - Constantly emitting toxic fumes, these infernal nymphs are said to be found around the craters of certain volcanoes in Roman and European tradition. They are sometimes said to be related to various volcano deities, and are often found around ruined temples to the gods Apollo or Jupiter. There are rumours that some of the creatures may be able to colonise volcanic springs as well as magma and lava. Avnas - Also sometimes known as 'Amy', this fiery demon is known from the writings of European scholars, and is thought to originally manifest itself as a raging flame before taking on human form. It is capable of granting familiars to magic users, revealing treasures and manipulating the minds of humans in positions of power. According to some sources, it is a President of Hell, and was once a fallen angel of the choir of Powers. Awahondo - Appearing as giant assassin bugs, these creatures are known from the local folklore and campfire stories of the Native Americans. They are said to be related to faeries and sprites, and to often be used as hunting companions by these creatures due to their powerful front limbs and venomous bite. This bite has a fatal effect on humans, whose bodies will swell up enormously if they are exposed to it. Awar - Producing drunkenness and debauchery in humans in their vicinity, these peculiar Middle-Eastern beings are thought to have originally been created by the evil djinn known as Iblis. They are thought to be demonic in origin, and damage the souls of those that they feed on through generating intoxication. Awd Goggie - Hiding in the forests around Yorkshire and Scotland, these monstrous caterpillars are often used by parents to discourage their children from entering the woods unsupervised. They protect the fruits that grow on the trees, and can move through the forest invisibly in order to stalk those who seek to pick the fruit. When they are close enough to their victim, they will rear up and then descend, swallowing them whole. Awful - Although similar to the griffin in appearance, these creatures are far more malevolent, and have slightly more draconic features. They exist in small populations across North America, and are able to psychically induce heart failure in their victims. Awi Usdi - Stalking and punishing North American hunters who needlessly and indiscriminately persecute wildlife and disrupt the natural ecosystem, these alarming beings are named after the first individual of their species, and resemble humanoids with the heads and hooves of deer. They are capable of inflicting paralysis and rheumatism on stubborn humans to prevent them from ever hunting again. Axex - One of the only Egyptian griffin species that has fully-functioning wings, these creatures hunt on grassland areas in a manner akin to cheetahs. They are sometimes depicted as having three feathers on their foreheads, though these are only found in immature specimens. It is thought that this species came close to being domesticated by the ancient Egyptians. Axshem - Announcing its presence with the vile odour of sulphur, this evil Patagonian spirit is known from the Aonikenk folklore of Chile and Argentina, and is said to live in a sulphurous spring near the lake of Oren Aike, from which toxic bubbles frequently sprout. Not a lot is known about it, but it is confirmed to be nocturnal, only emerging from the noxious water on the darkest of nights. It is one the three most prominent evil spirits in Aonikenk folklore, along with Kélenken and Maip. Aždaja - Regarded as evil incarnate in Serbian mythology, these sluggish dragons resemble serpents with three or nine heads and stumpy limbs, as well as bat-like wings. They create terrible rackets in their cave habitats with their infernal screeching, and spit blue fire from all of their heads. It is said that they come into being when a snake keeps eating other snakes and then develops legs and wings if it lives for a hundred years. Azeban - Most closely matching humanoid raccoons in their appearance, these North American and Canadian faeries are famous for their trickster-like antics in local folklore. They have been known to shapeshift into other animals to confuse potential hunters or the owners of said other animals, but they are not known to be malicious. Instead, they prefer to play harmless and foolish pranks. Aži Sruvara - A fearsome dragon, this creature lies in the deserts and sandbanks of Middle Eastern territories, and is so large that its back is often mistaken for a mountain. It is known to impale human corpses onto the horns that grow around its head, though it is unknown if this serves a ritualistic purpose. Aziwugum - Roaming the coastlines of Alaska, these creatures are superficially canine in appearance, and are covered in thick black scales. They live among herds of walruses, and appear to act as a protector of sorts over these groups of animals. Their long and muscular tails can easily kill humans with a single, powerful swipe. Azovka - Dwelling inside remote mountains across Russia, these strange beings are thought to be the preserved souls of people who were cursed by dark magic users, and are now forced to guard some form of treasure hoard. They constantly emit disturbing moaning noises from their cave dwellings, and it is said that if someone proceeds to enter the caves despite the noises, the curse on the creature will be lifted. Baba Yaga - This bizarre and frightening pagan god represents the deep forests of Russia, and lives in a hut that can move around using chicken legs. She sometimes helps those that she encounters, and has an affinity with forest wildlife, though has also been known to eat children. She can fly using a mortar, which she steers using a pestle as if were an oar. Babaroga - Lurking in dark and abandoned dwellings across Croatia and Europe, these haggish bogeymen appear as hunch-backed women with single horns on their foreheads and long fangs. They sometimes capture their prey and take them back to their lairs to be devoured, but are also known to be capable of snatching victims through cracks in the ceilings of old houses. Babi Ngepet - Demonic boars featured in Indonesian mythology, these monstrous creatures are sorcerers that use an enchanted item of clothing to assume an animal form. They are able to rub against surfaces in this monstrous form, and the dwellings to which these surfaces belong will instantly fall into poverty. The sorcerer and their family will inherit all of this wealth through dark magic. Bäckahästen - Lurking near rivers and lakes in foggy conditions, these beautiful white equine creatures are usually spoken about in the folklore of Scandinavian regions and are thought to be closely related to kelpies. They will attempt to lure weary travelers onto their backs, before diving into their river habitat and drowning their victims. Badalisc - Depicted in Christmas festivals across the Alps, these strange serpents have small horns, enormous mouths and fur on their heads resembling that of goats or other mammals. They appear to have some kind of psychic ability, and know the secrets and gossip of all those around them. This skill is often used in the religious festivals, in which an 'interpreter' reads out what the monster has revealed. Badigui - A genuinely aquatic relative of dragons, this creature has evolved to resemble a prehistoric mosasaur. It has a long ridge of spikes along its back, and a crocodilian head, which has led to speculation that it might be a terrestrial organism when the full body is not seen. It lives in the lakes and rivers of the Republic of the Congo, and hunts animals like hippopotamuses and the mokèlé-mbèmbé. Badiguy - Monstrous amphibians found in the lakes and rivers of Central Africa, these creatures are often mistaken for plesiosaurs or enormous serpents because of their elongated necks and the fact that their bodies are rarely seen. They are thought to be omnivorous, as they are known to kill hippopotamuses but also use their lengthy necks to reach vegetation at the tops of trees. Their tracks are said to resemble those of massive snakes or slugs when they venture onto land. Badogiak - Fearsome storm elementals mentioned in North American folklore, these beings are said to cause a great degree of thunderstorms with their noisy and ferocious battles that occur in the clouds. They resemble angels, and are thought to represent the male variant of the valkyries. It is said that some of them have chosen to intermarry with humans. Badyoush - Associated with love and romance, these benevolent Middle-Eastern Djinn are often harnessed in the spells and enchantments of modern day Western magic users. The use of their blood or blessing in brewing can produce powerful love spells that will create genuine feelings rather than magic manipulation. Baghlet el Qebour - Born from the damned soul of a Moroccan widow who broke Islamic law by remarrying too soon after the death of her first husband, thus making determining the paternity of any children born from the marriage impossible, this kelpie-like Djinn will manifest on all nights of the week save for Wednesday. It will appear as a pre-saddled mule and will search for cavorting men, inviting them to ride it before running off into the desert with them and burying its victims alive. Bagiennik - Referred to in Slavic folklore, these aberrant merfolk are known to be able to fire a boiling oil-like substance from two glands situated just above their nostrils as a defense mechanism. However, this liquid can also heal several ills if it is collected and used in medicine. The presence of the creatures in a body of water can be detected if there are bubbles on the water's surface. Bagodemon - Described as having skin like bubblegum in order to stick to the bark of the trees that they climb, these luminescent oddities are to be found in the forests of the North American state of Texas where they were first witnessed in 2006, and resemble humanoids with purple-to-white glowing skin and long scythes instead of hands. Their eyes glow bright red and they are known to make hideous screaming or chuckling noises when they are agitated. Baí Zé - Found in Asia, these prophetic monsters resemble white oxen, and tend to appear before great tragedies. However, this is only believed in China, and the creatures are thought to be good omens in Japan, so much so that paintings of the creature are sold as good luck charms. Baiame - Responsible for the creation of some of the first Australian Aboriginal tribes, and the discovery of music and culture among said tribes, this immensely powerful deity is worshipped in specific initiation sites. Women or children are forbidden to enter these areas, and the being's name must not be spoken publicly for fear of summoning him. Because of his bizarre appearance, some have suggested that he might be alien in origin. Báigǔjīng - Intelligent and manipulative, these demonic Chinese shapeshifters resemble undead skeletons in their true forms, but will often take on the forms of elderly women or innocent children. They will attempt to poison unwary travelers through gifts of food, or request help from potential good samaritans before killing them. Their name translates as 'white bone demon'. Baital - Thought to be extremely similar if not identical to the Vetala, these creatures hang upside-down in caves and caverns across India, and are known to venture into graveyards in order to possess human cadavers, which they will reanimate and use as vehicles. They can make their presence known by driving humans in their vicinity mad, as well as killing children and causing miscarriages. However, they have sometimes been said to guard villages against lesser evil spirits. Bakanga - Unknown to science, these big cats resemble hybrids of leopards and lions, and are found in the jungles and grasslands of Central Africa. They have reddish brown fur with dappled markings like those of leopards, and are said to be aggressive in behavior. Oddly, they appear to bark like a dog rather than roar like a lion. Bakbakwalanooksiwae - Lurking in the Arctic regions of North America or Canada, these obsessive spirits resemble masses of shapeless black smoke, almost like that generated from a campfire. They will swallow their victims, whose souls will then be digested and replaced with nothing but a desire to worship the shadowy being. These devoted followers will then be regurgitated into a cult-like setting. Bake-Kujira - Found mostly in the waters of Japan, this phantom creature appears as an animated whale skeleton that drifts through the water. It is accompanied by large numbers of bizarre and demonic fish and birds, and will apparently curse all those who bear witness to it. Bakeneko - Born from regular cats that either live for over 13 years or grow to a certain weight, these Japanese shapeshifters resemble anomalously-large felines with abnormally long tails in their true forms, but are often known to morph into humans, sometimes even their own owners in order to live in their place after killing them. They can start house-fires using flames at the ends of their tails, and can reanimate fresh corpses as undead puppets for their own nefarious purposes. Bakhtak - Small and impish, these ugly demons are known from the folklore of Iran, and perch on the chests of sleeping victims in order to cause hideous nightmares and sleep paralysis. They attempt to kill their victims while they sleep, but if the humans wake up before the creatures do so, they will disappear and then return until they are either banished or successfully kill their victim. Keeping a knife under an at-risk person's pillow can ward off an attack. Bakki - Living ecological disasters, these Japanese creatures resemble serpentine mammals with eyes on the tops of their heads, and usually move so swiftly that they can only be seen as blurs. Wherever they go, crops will fail and ponds will evaporate, causing droughts and starvation in local populations. The only way to capture one is by submerging it in dirty water, which seems contradictory. Bakru - Lurking around derelict structures in the forests of South America, these dwarfish faeries are half fleshy and half wooden, and are capable of using powerful dark magic to discourage trespassers on their territory. They are sometimes known to work for people that pay them, though if they are not paid then they will become murderous and impossible to get rid of. Baku - Originally from Japan, these dream-eating creatures have since spread all over the world as the regional populations of people moved. They are normally benevolent, and can be summoned by children to consume their nightmares and therefore rid them of the bad dreams. However, if a baku is called on too often, it will become angry and begin to consume good dreams as well as bad, which leaves the victim to live an empty life. Bakunawa - Resembling a sea serpent or a dragon, this mighty celestial deity is mentioned as the cause of lunar eclipses in Philippines folklore. Although it usually lives away from planet Earth, it has been known to take on human form to blend in with our population. When it does this, it feeds on light sources around it, often causing localised blackouts. Balam - Protecting the agricultural land and human inhabitants of Mayan Mexico, these shapeshifting nature spirits resemble mighty humanoid jaguars or tigers in their true forms. They have prodigious physical strength and the supernatural ability to warp the geographical features of the land around them. Because of this, they were sometimes depicted as guardians of the four directions in ancient mythology. Bałamutnik - Hideous water spirits found in Slavic territories, these mischievous creatures resemble overweight humanoids with saggy skin and puffy faces, and are known to attempt to kidnap women and young girls by placing them under spells that force them to follow them. Similar to creatures like Grindylows and Kappas, they are said to attempt to grab the feet of those who walk across loose piers and bridges, trying to drag them down into the water. They are rowdy and will harass their victims. Balan - This highly intelligent ruler of Hell is a demon with three heads, one of a bull, the others of a human and a ram. It is capable of making itself and others invisible, and also seeing with perfect accuracy the events of the present, past and future. Balaur - Enormous multi-headed dragons, these Romanian creatures often feature in local fairy-tales about heroes and kidnapped maidens, as the representation of evil that the hero must slay. They are described as having large wings and fins, as well as powerful feet with which they can move quickly on uneven terrain. Bald Mountain Critter - First witnessed in its namesake North American mountainous region in 1974 after an alleged UFO crash, this bizarre glowing creature resembles a horse-sized quadruped with tentacles and scales, as well as antennae on its football-sized head. After several reports came in regarding the surreal beast, a group of heavily-armed soldiers from NASA or the US Air Force appeared and laid siege to the area, after which the reports of the animal promptly stopped. Bald Mountain Critter - This unrelentingly weird creature was witnessed in 1974, and was described as having a glowing green scaled body and four tentacles in place of legs. There was some talk of a government agency stealing this creature away to a secret facility, and it has not been seen since. Baldanders - Very little is known about this shape-changing German demon, except that it is a being similar to Proteus from the Odyssey. It is said to be symbolic of the everlasting cycle of change in the universe, and to have the power to transform itself into any object or being in the rest of the world. Due to this, it is also known as the 'soon-another', which is a nickname that it seems to have given itself. Ballybog - Peculiar and stupid faeries, these British creatures are found mostly in the swamps and peat bogs of Ireland, and do not seem to be hostile towards humans. They act as protectors of their environment, and will spend most of their lives secluded from outside contact. Despite this, they have been known to occasionally lead travelers astray when they get bored, though this does not cause much harm. Balor - Ruling over the monstrous Irish Fomorians, this titanic being resembles a massive cyclops, and has a single eye in the middle of its forehead that wreaks destruction when it is opened. It is usually covered by several cloaks, which are lifted by the cult-like followers of the monster before going into battle. Some have said that it is a personification of drought. Bamapama - Creating hostility and bitterness between human populations in their vicinity, these mischievous Australian tricksters are known to deliberately possess people are force them to violate cultural taboos. These taboos are usually known to include criminal and sexual offenses, and the spirits are said to have the ability to control the day and night cycle. Bánánach - Howling in supernatural grief at the mass loss of life, these ghostly Irish faeries are extremely similar to banshees, but are usually only found on battlefields or the sites of other mass slaughters. Unlike banshees, hearing their screams is not believed to have any ill effect other than causing extreme fear and an inexplicable sense of sadness and loss. Banaspati - Indonesian monsters, these beasts are psychic vampires that have red skin and long horns, as well as vicious flames that eternally burn around their heads. They feed on the negative emotions of humans in their vicinity, and are able to create discord and irrational anger in their victims with the light that their flames produce. They live in the trees and foliage, and enjoy jumping down suddenly to feed on the fear that this creates. Bandage Man - Believed to be related to other monsters featured in popular urban legends such as the Hookman and Bloody Mary, this terrifying ghost is mentioned in the campfire stories of Cannon Beach of North America's Oregon, and is said to resemble a foul-smelling humanoid covered in bloodied bandages. It will chase after cars and cling onto them, attempting to punch through the windows to get at the people inside, and has also been known to steal and eat local pets. An unnamed couple were attacked in 1960 while making love in their pickup truck. Bandersnatch - Originating from the same alternate universe from which the jabberwock came, these agile predators stalk the forests and woodland communities of North America. They are frighteningly fast, and have long jaws with which they can tear prey to shreds. There are recorded cases of them using their multiple paws to push open doors, which suggests a higher level of intelligence than previously attributed to them. Banghaisgidheach - Enormous cave-dwelling cats, these savage predators are known from the medieval lore of the Kilkenny region of Ireland, and are said to have been fought by legendary heroes, as well as having come into conflict with the giant mice also present in that area known as Luchtigern. Very little is known about them because they make their homes in complicated networks of tunnels that are rarely explored by humans. Bangkilan - Resembling massive black boars in their true forms, these carnivorous shapeshifters are found in the Philippines, and are thought to be related to aswangs. They are seductive and powerful, capable of controlling other ghoulish monsters in their vicinity and transforming regular humans into aswangs by kissing them. Banim Shovavin - Born from the unnatural unison of a human male and a succubus demon, these hybrids will appear at the funerals of their fathers and claim to be their sons, attempting to steal back their inheritance, and thinking nothing of physically harming and even killing their competitors for this reward. It is from the fear of these creatures that the Jewish custom of forbidding sons to attend their fathers' funerals originates, and this is an attempt to protect them from demonic harm. Bannik - Hostile faeries, these creatures dwell in Russian bathhouses, and those with traditional beliefs have learnt rituals and key-phrases to appease them. If these are used, the creature is peaceful, though if people behave inappropriately in the bathhouse then the creature could suffocate them or boil them alive in the water. Despite not being considered benevolent, they were seen as essential to bathhouse areas. Banshee - Hailing from Ireland and other areas, these beings are able to possess others and travel through mist in a manner akin to teleportation. They have an affinity for music, and anyone who hears their song at close range will be driven insane and will hear constant screaming in their ears. In their true forms, they resemble women with bloodied clothes and flowing hair, and can be hurt using gold weapons. Banshee - Wailing and screaming as if mourning the loss of a loved one, these terrifying Irish faeries resemble human women with red eyes and pale clothing, and are thought to foretell the deaths of loved ones belonging to those who hear their awful cries. Because of their ghastly appearance, they are commonly mistaken for malevolent ghosts, possibly even those of women who died in childbirth, but this is incorrect. Banshees do not cause death, but rather predict it. Banyoles Monster - Thought to have originally been a demonic aquatic dragon, poisoning plants and water using its breath and sucking herds of animals into its throat by magic, this reptilian creature was placated by a ritual performed by Saint Emeterio which involved coaxing the beast out of the water using prayers and then changing its temperament to a docile herbivore. It is still said to dwell in its namesake lake in Spain's Catalonia to this day, but it is no longer feared. Baobhan Sith - Beautiful faeries, these bloodsucking creatures wander the highlands of Scotland, and lure men away from their trails using their seductive appearance. Although their true form has horns and cloven hooves, the beings cover this up with a long, flowing cloak. When they successfully capture a victim, they will make fine punctures in their neck and drain their life force from these. Bapet - Monstrous feminine humanoids, these hideous North American ogres dwell in secluded forests and are known to kidnap infants and force them to suckle from their pendulous breasts, which are filled with poisonous milk. Sometimes they will seduce and eat the flesh of adult males. They are thought to be the female counterparts to the famous Siats, and are immortal unless they are killed using obsidian arrows. Baphomet - First summoned onto Earth by the atrocities of the Christian Crusades, this demonic lord corrupted large groups of warriors at this time, and eventually led to the disbandment of the Knights Templar. Although he can shapeshift into many other forms, his true appearance resembles a winged, goat-headed human. Barabao - Perverted little faeries, these Italian dwarves are exclusively found in Venice, and are known to be grotesquely fascinated by human females, shapeshifting into pieces of string in order to lodge themselves between women's breasts and loudly catcall them, only to vanish when they look down. They spy on lovers in bed, and toy with gondoliers by shapeshifting into customers and then refusing to pay them for their services. In their true forms, they resemble goblins with red hats. Barbegazi - Found in Sweden and France, these snow-dwelling gnomes are covered in thick white fur and have abnormally large feet, which they use to ski around their mountain habitat. In the Summer, they will hibernate in deep caves, and will come out in Winter to help shepherds with lost sheep. They love surfing on avalanches, and the whistling sounds that they generate whilst doing this is used to warn human hikers. Bardi - Similar to anubites and banshees, these Turkish shapeshifters are mostly female in gender, and can emit bone-chilling screams that foretell and cause the deaths of nearby humans. They resemble jackals or hyenas in their true form, though have been known to take on the appearance of haggled and wizened people dressed in ragged garments. Bare-Fronted Hoodwink - Always almost seen or almost captured, these Scottish birds appear to be perpetually blurred and are capable of moving at extreme speeds away from any potential observer. They are known from the writings of the ornithologist Matthew Fontaine Maury Meiklejohn, and seem to be only witnessed by amateurs in the bird watching profession. The only time one has ever been captured was on the first of April in 1975, but this specimen has since disappeared like all other evidence. Barghest - Resembling enormous bears or dogs, these phantom hounds will viciously chase and stalk those that come too close to entering into the spirit realm while still alive. They are able to possess humans, and will slowly morph the bodies of these vessels into a werewolf-like shape. Bariaua - Originally hailing from Oceania, these shy faeries live inside the trunks of ancient trees, and are well known for constructing a wide variety of water-going vehicles and boats. They abhor the very idea of being seen by human eyes, and will disappear instantly if they are observed. Despite sometimes stealing canoes from fishermen, they usually keep far away from humans, and will become hostile if they are placed in captivity or under forced observation. Barmanou - These Wildman creatures exist in the mountain ranges of Pakistan and Afghanistan and the neighboring Himalayas. They are covered in hair, but will also sometimes be seen wearing primitive clothing, and have been known to kidnap women in order to attempt to mate with them. Barmston Drain Beast - Resembling a truly massive wolf or bear, this horrible creature was first sighted near to its namesake British river in 2016, when it was apparently seen consuming a German shepherd dog. It is covered in thick grey hair, and is capable of standing upright like a human, to reveal its glowing red eyes. Barneman - Walking around on piers and harbors during foggy nights in the Netherlands and other Dutch territories, these frightful spirits are thought to be demons, and their appearance is regarded as bad omens. They make alarming huffing noises similar to the snorting of wild horses, and are said to foretell terrible storms and maritime disasters wherever they move. Barometz - Resembling rams or sheep, these strange creatures are said to grow on plants in Central Asia, and live most of their life attached to their plant by a stem or umbilical cord. They eat the plants around them when in this stage of growth, though once this food source runs out they will detach themselves from their plant. Their flesh apparently tastes extremely sweet, if eaten. Barong - Appearing as large and mighty lion-like creatures covered in ornate jewelry and sculptures, these powerful Indonesian beings are thought to be protective spirits that are locked in a war against the ferocious Rangda. They are thought to have been worshipped in local cultures before Hinduism existed, and their image is often used in traditional dances to ward away evil spirits. In folklore, they are depicted as the leaders of the 'Host of Good', which suggests some relation with angels. Baš Čelik - Covered in hellish chains, these Turkish angels are well-known for the manipulation of human subjects, and tricking them into betraying their family members or friends. They are unable to be killed easily, because they hide their souls inside animals or objects and then protect these objects. Although they do not usually, in their true form they have massive wings. Basajaun - Massive relatives of trolls, these hairy humanoids tower above trees and houses, and are said to have built the mysterious megaliths that are known to the Basque people. They protect flocks of livestock, and supposedly taught agriculture and ironworking to the local human population. They are nowhere near as common as they were in ancient times, though can still be found in secluded groups. Basan - Found on isolated islands off the coast of Japan, these chicken-like beasts are nocturnal and seemingly docile. They produce a blue fire-like substance from their beak, though this is not harmful to people or objects. It is suggested that it may be a display function. Basilisk - Found in Europe, this mighty serpent is said to be the king of reptiles, and to be able to cause death or paralysis with a single glance at a victim. They are found in desert areas, and can be tracked by the wide trail of potent venom that they leave behind them when they slither. Bastardo - Related to wyrms and other serpentine dragons, these monstrous Spanish reptiles are renowned for their bizarre thirst for the milk of cows and goats and other mammals, in search of which they are known to break into farms and barns. They resemble horned snakes covered in horns, and are armed with an extremely venomous bite capable of killing humans swiftly. Not only are they lethally poisonous, they can also defend themselves in times of dire need by using their long tails as whips. Batibat - Filipino relatives of trolls, these creatures are known to live in trees, and to obsessively follow the wood from that tree wherever it goes if it is ever cut down. In particular, if this wood is used as support beams in a house or as a bedpost, then the creatures may even resort to killing the human residence to get the wood back. They do this by sitting on their victim's heads and suffocating them. Batsquatch - Resembling a large hairy humanoid with a canine head and the wings of a large bat, these inexplicable monsters were first sighted around the time of the Mount St Helen's eruption in the 1980s. They have since been sighted on several more occasions across North America, never actually attacking humans despite their threatening appearance. Batutut - Similar to sasquatch, these hairy humanoids are thought to be descendants of homo erectus, and are found in the jungles of Borneo and Vietnam. They were seen frequently during the Vietnam war, when they were reported to be roughly 5ft tall. Witnesses generally describe them as highly aggressive creatures, and they are known to tear out and eat the livers of their victims. Bauk - Bearlike creatures, these monsters lurk in the dark places and abandoned houses of Serbia, where they wait to snatch victims that wander inside. Despite their physically powerful bodies, they can be scared away by light and noise, and are clumsy when chasing their prey. Baumesel - Closely related to Feldgeisters and other low-level nature elementals, these vaguely goblin-like faeries usually assume the forms of donkeys or asses, and are found in and around the forests and cornfields of Germany. They are also known as 'Scheunesel', which means 'barn donkey', but aside from this virtually nothing is known about their behaviour or abilities. Like other elementals, they would be expected to aggressively target those that damage their habitat. Baxbakwalanuxsiwae - Covered in mouths, these monstrous humanoids live in the woodlands of America, and feed on any animals that they come across using their vicious teeth and physical strength. They are known to possess people who are uninitiated into local society, and then the exorcism rite serves as their initiation. When possessed, the human victims are known to obsessively mumble the words 'hap hap hap'. Bayfart - Found in the frigid waters around Denmark, these unfortunately named aquatic mammals were represented in the writings of medieval explorers, and were described as having horns on their heads. These structures are actually sacks that can be inflated with air to communicate with other members of the species. Some large males of the species have tusks. Baykok - These evolutionary cousins of the wraiths live in the Minnesota and North Dakota areas of North America, and will hunt humans in the forests by night using blades that they can fire from their wrists, and then dine on their livers. They will usually resemble humans, but will appear with translucent flesh under the gaze of a mirror, and must then be killed using silver weaponry. Bažaloshtsh - Described as dwarfish humanoid females with long hair, these Banshee-like faeries are found in Eastern Germany where they will sit underneath the window of someone who is about to die, wailing terribly in the night. Their name means 'God's Plaint', and they are mostly mentioned in the folklore of the Wend people. The meaning of their name could suggest that they may perform some kind of vengeful function as well as wailing for the dead. Bean Chaointe - Often conflated with banshees because of their similar abilities and behaviour, these are the creatures that make people believe that banshees are hostile, seeing as these Irish faeries will use their screaming abilities to shatter glass and deafen passersby. They are also known as 'keening women', which implies that they may have had a historical role to play in the mourning of the deaths of great leaders, but this is clearly not the case nowadays. Bean-Nighe - Resembling small and pitiful haggish beings, these Scottish ghosts are the spirits of women who died in childbirth, and appear by the sides of lakes and rivers, washing the clothes of those who are about to die by violence whilst emitting mournful cries and screeches. If they can be captured by the observer, they will be forced to reveal the circumstances of their impending doom and also grant three wishes, but if the ghost sees the watcher first they will be paralyzed. Bean-Tighe - Taking immense joy in being helpful around households, these tiny Scottish faeries live in houses owned by lone mothers and elderly women, and will check to make sure that household pets and children are sleeping soundly at night. However, they have sometimes resulted in the deaths of the owners of their houses, because witch-finders accused them of using dark magic to tidy their houses. They are partial to strawberries and cream. Beast Mummy - Often preserved as companions or offerings to dead humans in Ancient Egypt or other civilizations, these animals are sometimes resurrected by the same curse that wakes their masters. They are brutal creatures, though are physically fragile enough to be killed by a few gunshots. Beast of Bladenboro - Also known as the vampire beast, this terrifying feline predator was sighted around its namesake North American locale in the 1950s, when it was responsible for the deaths of several pets by decapitation and crushing. It seemed to specifically target dogs, and would leave their corpses drained of blood after brutally killing them. The monster was described as resembling a large mountain lion with dark fur and enormous eyes, and was said to emit a cry like a wailing baby. Beast of Bodmin Moor - Large black cats, these creatures are known to roam around the Bodmin area in Cornwall, where they regularly feed on sheep and livestock. There have been several government investigations into the beasts since 1995, and a skull that appears to come from a male leopard has been found. Beast of Many Colours - Despite their threatening appearance and close relation to griffins, these colourful creatures are mostly herbivorous, dining from leaves at the tops of trees. They are usually found in solitude in forests across France and Europe, where they are often mistaken for dragons by over-eager hunters. Beast of Tunbridge Wells - Despite resembling a classic ape-man, these shuffling creatures are thought to be paranormal in origin, on account of their glowing red eyes and aura of terror that they give off. They were first witnessed in their namesake British area in World War II, though have also been seen more recently. Be-Chasti - Despite looking like robots or other modern constructs, these creatures are actually naturally occurring metal giants that are featured in Native American mythology. They are said to live in forests and woodlands, and to emerge to hassle travelers and steal their food. If these travelers refuse to hand over their food, the creatures will attack them. Bediadari - Mentioned in the Malay folklore of West Malaysia, these trooping fairies are known to move in vast swarms, capable of efficiently performing tasks for both good and evil. Very little is known about them, likely due to the degree of fear which surrounds such information, seeing as their very name is actually a euphemistic term akin to 'the Good Folk'. Like Pillywiggins, it would be reasonable to expect them to have insect-like features. Bedroom Animal - Thought to be physical incarnations of the innate human fear of animal predation, these horrific boogeymen have been reported in urban myths from all over the world, and usually appear as humans in oddly-shaped animal costumes. They have been known to perform bizarre acts such as dancing, tickling or simply just jumping out from underneath beds or in wardrobes. Their only goal seems to be to scare. Bedudu - Hideous and pugnacious, these enormous centipede-like insects are found below the ground in Maltese grasslands and forests. They have evolved to have large mandibles that can be used like vicious claws, and hunt their prey by sensing the vibrations that they make when they walk. Their bites are mildly venomous, though most prey is torn apart by their claws before it can take effect. Beelzebub - A flying demon resembling a massive insect, this being is one of the Seven Princes of Hell, though is rebellious against Lucifer's commands. It was first worshipped by the Philistine people, though has since been seen during the Salem Witch Trials. Befana - Manifesting as hideous old hags on all days of the year except the 6th of January, these Italian household faeries will change forms to more closely resemble kindly old grandmothers on the aforementioned days, and lay out feasts in the houses in which they dwell as well as filling children's shoes with sweets. They do this because the first member of the species turned down an offering from the Magi to see the newborn Jesus Christ, and so now they make feasts in case the Magi return. Behemoth - This extremely large and powerful entity was described in the Judeo-Christian Bible as having a tail like a cedar tree, a massive body and a herbivorous diet. In reality, it is an enormous and territorial creature that is imprisoned underneath a mountain in the Middle East. It is said that the Leviathan and it will one day engage in mortal combat. Beholder - Demonic creatures, these beings are capable of absorbing magical energy from their vicinity, as well as from hostile magic users. They move in small groups, and will often follow a member of another species if other beholders are not in the area. Their existence was first discovered after the publication of well-known modern fantasy roleplaying games, and so they are thought to be a recently-emerged species. Beithir - These enormous multi-limbed dragons are found in Scotland and Ireland, and move with an undulating motion similar to that of a caterpillar. They are attracted by lightning bolts, and are considered to be associated with faeries. Modern sightings took place in the 1930s and 1975. Beldam - Differentiated from regular witches only by their increased power and age, these beings have no relation to the fictional Neil Gaiman villain with which they share their name, and usually appear as pale women with long black cloaks. As with most witches or witch-like beings, they were originally humans who dabbled in dark magic and were mutated by this powerful force, eventually becoming inhuman creatures with supernatural abilities. Their name originates from a term for a grandmother. Belial - Responsible for the genesis of all crime and corruption on Earth, this terrifying fallen angel is often confused with Lucifer, and is said to have been personally cursed and expelled to the darkest reaches of Hell by God himself. He is capable of twisting the words spoken by prophets, and also is considered to be the ruling angel of necromancy. Belial controls the Grigori. Bell Witch - Causing powerful poltergeist activity within the households that it haunts, this terrifying ghost is known to have laid siege to a peaceful North American farming home in 1817. It was supposed to have been variably benevolent and extremely hostile and violent, telling the future and protecting children, though also scratching people and damaging property. When shot at, it would shapeshift into a hare-cat hybrid creature. Belú - Wielding terrifying curved teeth, these shapeshifting Burmese monsters are thought to be closely related to rakshasas because of their similar feeding habits and appearance. They use their form-changing abilities to morph into the family members of their human victims, to trick them into accepting their companionship before being devoured. Bendith y Mamau - Stunted and ugly humanoids, these Welsh faeries are said to ride horses in processions known as Faery Rades, and are sometimes customarily offered bowls of milk left outside houses that they pass on their journeys. They replace children with changelings, which can be banished through a specific ritual. First, a raw egg must be cracked and stirred while the changeling watches, and then a Faery Rade observed, and finally an unplucked black hen should be roasted over a fire. Bennu Bird - Nowadays often thought to be related to the phoenix, this unique bird is said to have enabled the gods to create the world in ancient Egyptian mythology, and to have somehow existed before creation itself, as well as to be capable of periodically renewing itself in order to be effectively immortal. This eternal cycle of life means that it is associated with Osiris, and is often depicted as wearing a crown called an Atef as a result. Like Ra, it was likely worshipped at Heliopolis. Bensocia - Introduced to France and Europe by the arrival of the ancient Norse deity known as Frigg, these diminutive and commonplace faeries produce intense positive feelings and euphoria in those around them, allowing them to make mischief and cause havoc without human interference. Their name is a translation of 'good friend', which shows the power of their influence over human emotions. Bentohangin - Variants of the famous centaurs, these Filipino hybrid creatures resemble humanoids with the hindquarters and heads of large horses. They are sometimes said to be more primitive forms of the aforementioned centaurs, but their ability to seemingly fly and use magic casts doubt on this assertion. Berbalang - Found in the Philippines, these winged vampiric shapeshifters will roam small villages at night and feed on corpses from graves that they dig up. Despite their ability to shapeshift into human form, they can always be discerned because of their slanted, feline pupils. They can only be killed using a silver blade that has been washed in the juice of a lime. Berberoka - Aquatic variants of the trolls, these creatures are found in deep lakes and slow-moving rivers in the Philippines. They are capable of producing large amounts of water, which attracts fish to the lakes and thus lures human fishermen. These people will then be attacked by the creatures, which use weaponised jets of water to stun and kill them. Bereginia - Originally regarded as primordial deities presiding over areas where bodies of water meet with land and shore, these Slavic faeries are found in coastal areas and riversides across Russia and Ukraine. They are worshipped by surrounding human populations as a sort of 'mother nature' figure, but the first mention of the creatures comes in an ancient textbook listing deities that Christians are forbidden to worship. Bergbúi - Often seen carrying musical horns and large stone hammers, these Norse giants are thought to be closely related to jötunns, and are usually found in mountainous or clifftop areas. In some ancient Norse poems, stories of one of these creatures fighting the deity known as Thor are told. Other than this, very little is known about them. Bergkonge - A spider-like shapeshifter, this creature is found in the forests of Norway, and is capable of assuming the form of a handsome young man in a cloak of leaves. It uses this appearance to seduce women and lure them into the woods, where they will never be seen again. Bergsrå - Related to trolls, these Swedish mountain-dwelling faeries live in tightly-structured cities and societies, usually surrounded by trolls and goblins as either hunting companions or guards. They can be both male and female, and are known to kidnap humans and take them into their mountain dwellings, where they will experience sensations of lost time. Berkeley Square Monster - First recorded in the 17th century in London, this terrifying British entity is thought by some to be a cephalopod such as a squid, heavily mutated by demonic influence. It seems to be invulnerable to gunfire, and is known to slip and slide through air ducts to poison and kill human prey. Berreador - Reported from the riverbanks of South America, these strange animals are usually only witnesses as they poke their expansive mouths out through bushes and foliage. Their maws are adapted to resemble flowers or mushrooms, and small insects are thus attracted to land on them. The creatures then snap their mouths shut and feed on the bugs. Berserker - Known as some of the most fearsome warriors in the armies of the ancient Norse people, these frightening shapeshifters are thought to gain their power from devotion to some kind of bear cult, and are known to enter a wild fury when they are in battle, attacking friends and enemies alike while screaming in rage. During these frenzies they are immune to steel and fire, but become weak and tame once more when they calm down. Despite their ferocity, they are devoted to their religions. Berserker - When someone who has lived a life of combat dies, they have a chance of becoming resurrected as one of these mighty supernatural monsters. They will be permanently in a state of uncontrollable rage, and will attack both their enemies and allies. Because of their amazing strength and resilience, they were often used in armies by ancient Viking civilizations. Besta-Fera - Sometimes simply referred to as 'bestial beasts', these hybrid monsters maraud at night through isolated Brazilian villages, but will disappear when they reach tombs or graveyards. It is unknown why they do this, though they are believed to be some form of demonic manifestation. They inflict insanity on those that see their faces. Betikhan - Found in the Indian Nilgiri Mountains, these satyr-like spirits are greatly revered by the local human population, and are said to have the torsos of humans and the legs of deer. They are also alleged to hunt wild beasts in their vicinity, thus aiding the balance of a natural ecosystem. Despite the tricksterish behaviour of their faun relatives, there is currently not enough information available to determine if the Betikhan are dangerous. Betobetosan - Akin to the Fear Liath and other auditory spirits, these mischievous Japanese creatures feed on the fear and uncomfortable feelings that they generate in their victims by making the sounds of loud footsteps behind them on otherwise empty roads. Although they are frightening, they are not dangerous and can be evaded by stepping aside and saying 'after you, Betobetosan'. During Winter months, they are called bishagatsuku after the sound that their feet make in the snowy streets. Bevis - Spoken about in the folklore of the British area of Arundel, these mighty giants are said to have agreed to guard the local castle, and have a tower named after them. However, they seem to have spread this duty across all of Britain's historic sites nowadays, and use their shapeshifting abilities to assume human form when doing this. They tend to take the appearance of security guards or groundskeepers in these sites. Bezkost - Living among the forests of Slavic countries, these vampiric creatures appear as semi-mobile bags of flesh and organs, but can sometimes shapeshift into a more functional form. They feed off the blood of victims that wander into their territory using long proboscis-like organs, but can be hurt using iron weapons and holy water. Bhavanavāsin - Dwelling under the Earth in the uppermost section of Jainist Hell called 'Ratnaprabhā', these Asian demons resemble humanoid princes and live in palace-like structures, and are thought to either be members of the lowest class of deities or devas. The external manifestations of their souls (leśyā) or thoughts is black and fiery. They are divided into ten different subspecies, and at the head of each class are two leaders named 'Indras'. Bia - Representing brute force and fury in the ancient Greek pantheon, these rare angels are usually seen flanking Zeus, and were given the right to do this after the large part that they played in defeating the Titans. They are sometimes said to be gods or deities, as are their three sibling races. Other than their sheer strength and power, not much is known about them. Biasd Na Srogaig - Despite appearing almost exactly like the classic heraldic idea of a unicorn, these Scottish water monsters are tall and clumsy, and have little in common with their calm and peaceful kin. Their horns are twisted and curled, and their diet consists entirely of meat and sometimes human flesh. They have been known to use their fairy-tale appearance to lure innocent children close to the water's edge in order to drag them into the depths. Bicho Papão - Brazilian bogeymen, these awful creatures are thought to have been the inspiration for the boggarts of the Harry Potter book series. They lurk in dark and cramped areas such as wardrobes or under beds, and are shaped by the worst fears of their victims. When hunting, they prefer to stake out their prey from rooftops. Bichura - Usually wearing bright red clothing and taking on the forms of monstrous humanoid cats, these Turkish faeries live in households and protect the women who live there from potentially abusive men. If they are annoyed or feel that they are being mistreated, they will cause poltergeist activity such as knocking on walls and smashing crockery, and spook horses or family pets. They are usually invisible, and when they show themselves it is to foretell the death of a member of the household. Biersal - Closely related to Clurichauns and Kobolds, these Germanic faeries live in cellars and storage areas containing alcohol, and will clean jugs, bottles and equipment in return for offerings of beer. Unlike Clurichauns, they are not known to take out their frustrations malevolently if they are denied this privelage, and will instead simply refuse to carry out their cleaning duties. Bies - Resembling monstrous deer, these Slavic demons are thought to be closely related to the similar-looking chort. They have massive antlers and a mane of barbed spines on their backs, which can cause anyone who is pierced by them to go insane. They are repulsed by Christianity, and have thus decreased in numbers as pagan traditions in their habitat dwindled. Bi-Fang - Appearing to foretell great fire-related disasters, these unnerving Chinese birds resemble storks or cranes with a small flame atop their foreheads, and only seem to have a single leg. They emit loud calls for which they are named, and usually have light green or white feathers with red highlights. Big Badger - Found in small populations across North America, these giant mustelids are responsible for some sightings of dogmen or hellhounds. They live in little family groups, and will dig large networks of tunnels under forested areas. They feed mostly on juvenile deer or roadkill. Big-Eyes - Believed to be closely related to Wolfie due to their similar behaviour and odd appearance, this terrifying creature appeared to a school teacher named Joan Foreman in the mid-1950s as she was spending a night at the oldest section of an English school building when she was woken to see an obscene creature resembling a lemur perched at the end of her bed. Its state seemed to be mocking her, and it stayed there until it faded away in the morning light. Bigfoot - This legendary hairy humanoid has been talked about in Native American legend for centuries, and is also well known among monster hunters because of its distinctive footprints and iconic appearance. Although it was given spiritual properties by mythology, it is thought to actually be closely related to chimpanzees. It is omnivorous, and appears to be curious about humans who encroach on its territory. Bighead - Witnessed in the North American state of Ohio in 1978, this bizarre hairy humanoid is said to be roughly seven-feet tall, and to have a head unduly large in proportion to its body. It was covered in such thick hair that its hands and feet were not visible, and it appeared to be mostly nocturnal, due to having only been seen after dark. Because of its appearance, it may be related to Momo of Missouri fame. Bighoot - Causing anxiety and insomnia using humming sounds of a specific frequency, these terrifying Mexican birds appear as enormous owls with glowing red eyes. The gaze of these striking eyes has the ability to paralyse surrounding humans, rendering them easy prey for these aerial boogeymen. Due to their similar appearance, they are sometimes affiliated with mothman. Bigorne - Scaly and bloated bears, these monsters wander the French countryside and feed on men who are faithful to their wives and their religion. This represents a stark contrast to many other creatures, which would consume people with negative characteristics. There is speculation that they originally fed on 'weak' men, though this is no longer the case. Bilbiana - Appearing as a grotesque hybrid of a human woman and a monstrous otter, this Spanish boogeyman normally dwells at the bottom of an enormous ravine, where it has allegedly lurked for thousands of years. However, every year on the night of January 6th, the creature will emerge and go hunting for young children to consume, and must be driven away by fashioning a club-like weapon called a zoqueta, with the name of the creature inscribed on its tip, and hitting it between its ears. Billdad - These creatures are known from lumberjack folklore in North America, and used to often be seen fishing by leaping over fish and smacking their prey with their tails. They were considered a delicacy until recently, but their meat has since been discovered to be mildly toxic. Billiken - Appearing as small human children with pointed ears and large feet, these peculiar grinning faeries are thought to have originally been summoned by a product designer in the early 1900s because of their luck-bringing properties. They are often anchored to small statues of themselves, and sold as souvenirs. Despite assertion that they must be tulpas, there is evidence that they have existed since at least 1896. Bilwis - Demonic faeries, these German elemental spirits are found in cornfields where they are known to either shapeshift into enormous destructive balls to roll around and flatten the crops, or steal grain in the harvest season by assuming the form of a whirlwind. When they are stealing grain, they can be called out or shot at, and if this is done then the spirit will die in a year, but if it notices its attacker first, they will die instead. Sowing from the outside protects against Bilwis. Binaye Ahani - Always born as twins, these disgusting limbless demons are capable firing forth deadly beams of lightning from their eyes, and are known to control birds in their vicinity, using them as spies. They are capable of completely frying anyone who touches them. The monsters were finally defeated by a Native American hero who threw salt into their eyes. Bingbuffer - Leaping around like kangaroos, these small North American lizards are mostly herbivorous, though sometimes feed on small animals and other members of their own species. They have evolved to resemble larger, more threatening creatures such as mountain boomers, and are thus immortalized in lumberjack folklore as deliberately scaring those that come too close. Biosbardo - Continually morphing between the forms of small human children and waterfowl, these bizarre shapeshifting faeries are found in and around forested lakes in Spain. They emit stunning songs and are usually extremely beautiful in appearance, and can only be captured by a magic user using a specific chant. Sometimes, children will send each other hunting for these rare beings as pranks. Bird-Beast of Var - Said to have attacked an anonymous witness in November of 1962 on a desolate stretch of road in their namesake French locale, these unique ultraterrestrial beings were described as feathery humanoids with bird-like heads, and were first seen as they stood in a group in the middle of the road. When the witness drove towards them, they hurled themselves at the sides of his car, terrifying him. Once their attack was over, the aliens retreated to a glowing blue UFO and vanished. Bisan - Grotesque cicada spirits, these creatures originated from the forests of Malaysia, and must possess people every 27 years (their lifespan) in order to mate, due to having no genitals in their true form. These creatures can be killed by decapitation or fire, and are repulsed by the smell of burning sage. Biscione - Despite resembling large serpents such as basilisks, these massive serpents are not venomous, but are often seen to capture and devour children and other vulnerable humans. Some researchers have suggested that the Italian heraldic symbol that represents these creatures could suggest a connection to Hindu deities and other powerful humanoids that appear in the mouths of serpents. Bisha Ga Tsuku - Appearing on snowy streets during Japanese Winters, these bizarre creatures cause extreme fear and paranoia in those around them, following travelers at night and making footstep noises behind them. Some sources have allocated the creature the ability to generate cold temperatures in their vicinity, as well as to steal human souls, though this is not known to be true. Because of their similar behavior, they are thought to be related to Betobeto-San and Am Fear Liath Mòr. Bishop Fish - Resembling Catholic bishops, these fish are found in the waters of Europe, and have a long history of being captured for historical menageries. There are rumors that they are supernatural in origin, and can communicate with people, though this is unsubstantiated by evidence. Bisimbi Bi Masa - Supernaturally beautiful and seductive despite their grotesque abilities, these nymphs are found in the rivers and waterways of the African Congo, and spread horrific skin diseases among the human populations in their vicinity. This pestilence is incurable unless the victim is sung to by the nymph that infected them. They are believed to be so dangerous that only the most skilled of hunters or herbalists are allowed to enter areas where the nymphs are thought to be. Bithiae - Shapeshifting witches, these beings are found in the Middle East, and will have two pupils in each eye no matter what form they take. They are most known for assuming the bodies of other humans in order to camouflage among populations, and can use spells to kill enemies with nothing but a touch. Biwa-Bokuboku - When a certain Japanese musical instrument reaches an advanced age, it will gain a soul of its own and become one of these creatures. They have humanoid bodies and a face like the musical instrument, and will wander darkened streets playing enchanting music. These songs are said to be so hypnotic that they can calm an oni. Bixi - Often depicted in monuments around the graves of respected monarchs, these Chinese dragons are thought to bring good luck to those that touch them. They resemble large reptiles with the shells of tortoises and the monstrously ornate heads of classic Asian dragons. Their shells are renowned for their strength and ability to bear weight, and they are often seen holding pillars in sculptures. Bjarndyrakóngur - These extraordinary Icelandic beasts resemble polar bears of gigantic size, and possess unicorn-like horns on their foreheads. The first individual of this species was supposedly the result of the mating of a polar bear with a walrus or a bull. Males of the species have tufts of dark brown fur on their cheeks to signify their maturity. Black Annis - Spoken of in the folklore of specific British areas, these awful bogeymen resemble hags with dark blue skin and clothing made from the skin of their victims. They have iron claws which they use to carve out caves in sandstone, in which they set up camps where they can skin their young victims. There is some speculation that they may be descended from some variety of long-forgotten pagan deity. Black Demon - Also known as Megalodon, this surviving prehistoric shark has recently appeared on the coastlines of Africa, and started to hunt and kill whales as it did in its native time. It is unknown if the animal has been alive since the Ice Age, or if it is a supernatural manifestation. Black Eyed Child - These terrifying phantoms began to appear in the 1990s, and are well-known for hitchhiking or attempting to gain entry to the homes of innocent victims, often using excuses such as needing to use a phone. Their eyes hypnotically effect those who look into them, which leads to the humans noticing their demonic origin a little too late. Those who let the creatures in will quickly die of an unexplained illness. Black Mass - Dark spirits, these ghostly beings are often found in areas that have a history of misery and tortured souls, as well as a large population of true ghosts and phantoms. They are mindless and unintelligent creatures, and feed on the souls of humans by forcibly pulling it out of them using psychic abilities. Because of their physical power and their relative lack of free will, they are often used as henchmen and lackeys by more powerful spirits and beings. Black Shuck - Haunting the backwoods paths and graveyards of England, these monstrous hellhounds are described as having a single, glowing red eye in the middle of their foreheads. They have been reported to siege church grounds since 1157, and is said to herald the untimely deaths of all those who see them. They are still seen today, though appear to be much rarer than they were. Black Stickman - Reports of these bizarre and threatening beings began to be reported in urban areas in 2008, and have been being sighted consistently ever since. They resemble classic, two-dimensional stick figures, and have an apparent inability to open doors. Although not officially known to be hostile, they seem either curious or aggressive towards human life. Black Wings Over Bristol - Resembling an enormous black triangle, this bizarre and sinister atmospheric beast was seen by over fifteen people as it silently glided over the British locale of Bristol in August of 2004, apparently moving by flapping the rear two points of its angular body. It was described as being roughly 30ft across, and is said to have emitted a sort of negative energy. When it was confronted by the police, it vanished immediately, suggesting a paranormal identification. Blacksmith Blade - Demanding that their hosts kill as many people as possible in order to keep themselves alive, these cursed knives are believed to have originally been placed onto the planet by a cruel demon. They will gradually create an increasingly frenzied bloodlust in their victims, who will quickly die if they stop killing people. The blades seem to feed on the fear this generates in the humans. Blajini - Thought to be the ghostly souls of unbaptized infants who were the direct descendants of the Judaeo-Christian Seth, these Romanian demons resemble diminutive humanoids. They are vicious and oppressive to the humans around them, and it is said that Moses parted an ocean so that his people could escape from their clutches, before letting the water free and drowning the monsters. Blemmyes - These creatures used to be much more common in Africa and Asia, though have been severely decreased in population by centuries of war with humans. They have faces in their chests, and lack a head. They are mostly carnivorous, and will feed on humans that they capture. Blindheim - Capable of producing intensely-bright white beams of light from their eyes, these grotesque frog-like humanoids are found in subterranean cavernous areas, usually underground swamps or lakes in which they can hunt for small animals and fungi. They can use the light from their eyes to disorientate aggressors or victims, but will turn off their glow if a larger predator approaches. Although not fluent in any language, they can convey simple messages through flashes of their eye beams. Blodeuwedd - Originally created to allow an ancient Welsh hero, who had been cursed to never have a human wife, to experience love in his lifetime, this stunningly beautiful construct was formed from meadow flowers by a group of magic users, and was designed to be the perfect spouse. However, like so many of these tales, their creation eventually became capable of thinking for itself, and ended up having an affair with her husband's enemy. As punishment, she was transformed into an owl. Bloodless Howler - This massive predator roams forest areas of North America, and resembles a stark white lion with oddly canine hind quarters. It appears to be completely bulletproof, and leaves its prey mangled but completely free of blood or gore (killed almost surgically), from which it gets its name. Bloody Bones - Found mostly in North America, this creature lurks under the stairs or in dark cupboards of older houses, and acts akin to the boogeyman. It will snatch children from between the stairs, and strip the flesh from their bones, from which it garners its name. There are unconfirmed reports of this creature being summoned by young children using swear words. Bloody Mary - Sometimes associated with Queen Mary I, this horrific apparition is often accidentally summoned during the child's game in which they chant her name three times into a mirror. The creature will then follow those who summoned her throughout any mirrors that they pass, and will eventually kill them if she deems them responsible for the death of someone else. There have been reports of the entity attacking people who were not involved in the summoning, but were only near the mirror at Bloop - Producing incredibly loud sonar signals that are often picked up by military and naval equipment, these massive creatures are some of the largest naturally occurring animals on the planet. The sounds that they make can be heard from a distance of 4,800 kilometers apart from each other. Despite their massive size, they are very rarely physically seen due to their deep water habitat. Blud - Causing disorientation and confusion in lonely travelers, these Slavic faeries are tasked with misleading and tempting people who are isolated from their communities. This usually means simple misdirection and vertigo, though has also been known to take on more sinister undertones akin to mind control. Blue Baby Blue - Similar to Bloody Mary and the Candyman, this ghostly tulpa was created from an urban legend centering around a psychotic mother who murdered her own child, and the suggestion that the ghosts of the child and the mother can be summoned by chanting 'blue baby blue' in a mirror thirteen times. While performing this ritual, the participant's arms must be outstretched as if they were holding a baby, and once the ritual is complete the weight of an invisible child will be felt. Blue Being of Samoa - Unique Polynesian merfolk, these bizarre aquatic beings resemble blue, glowing humanoids with webbed hands and fins for feet, and are usually found in sea-caves and secluded cavernous lagoons in their namesake Oceanian region. According to local folklore, they were once humans who spent so long underground that they physically changed, and now only emerge from their isolated dens at night, occasionally leaving campsites adorned with seashells and bones on beaches. Blue Ben - Representing the ghostly spirit of a long-dead prehistoric ichthyosaur, this fire-breathing creature is referred to as a dragon in the folklore of England. It was said to live in various shale caves, using the surrounding water to cool itself down after using its fiery defense mechanism. Fossils of ichthyosaurs found in the legend's area of origin are often attributed to the creature. Bluecap - These faeries live in tunnels and mines, and will lead explorers or miners to rich deposits if appeased with a proper payment. They will only accept the same amount of money as a human miner, and will not take any more or any less. However, they are also enthusiastic about gold and precious metals, and will accept these as payment if nothing else is available. Blurry Beast - Appearing to be constantly out-of-focus and hazy, this bizarre humanoid was seen by a single witness while they were camping in British Columbia. Despite its clearly unique characteristics, some researchers have suggested that the Canadian creature may be a relative of some hairy humanoids, namely the skunk ape due to its orang-utan-like appearance as described by the witness the creature has not been seen since, suggesting that it may have been the only one of its kind. Blut Aussauger - Created from the resurrected corpses of witches, suicide victims and unbaptised people, or when a pre-existing member of the species forces a living human to consume dirt from its grave, these hirsute vampires nocturnally patrol villages in Bavaria, Bosnia and Germany in search of blood to drink. They resemble humanoids with large eyes, waxy skin and a lack of a skeleton, allowing them to attack from any angle. Like other undead, they can be killed through a staking ritual. Blutsäuger - Shadowy creatures that prowl the graveyards and derelict sites of Germany and Bosnia, these ghoulish vampires are rarely observed due to their dark habitats and likely shapeshifting abilities. Their name literally translates to mean 'bloodsucker', and they are often featured as vague boogeyman-like figures in stories told by local cultures, meaning that the lore surrounding them is even harder to interpret. Blutschinck - Resembling enormous bears from a distance, these monstrous aquatic animals are found in the cold lakes of Austria, and are known to sometimes haul themselves up onto land and snatch unsuspecting victims. Their swimming ability and their mammalian characteristics suggests a relation to the dobhar-chú. Bo - Although they appear akin to unicorns, these Chinese mesonychids do not appear to have any magical properties, and have adapted to have a single horn on their forehead to attack rival individuals. They are carnivorous, though do not tend to attack humans, rather preferring a diet of large mammals such as lions and tigers. Because of this physical power, and ability to slay other predators, they are treated as manifestations of gods by local pagan practitioners. Boat Hound - Consuming boats that fishermen forgot to tie down overnight, these North American fearsome critters patrol the shorelines of rivers and lakes at night in search of their unique prey items, and are said to resemble vaguely-canine aberrations with bodies shaped like boats, frog-like legs and four ears with which they can hear potential aggressors from all angles. They have enormous mouths similar to those of alligators, and are said to sleep on the bottoms of lakes during the day. Bobo - Said to have faces similar to those of gorillas at first glance, these curious pinnipeds are found in the waters around the West of North America, and were consistently seen in the period between 1939 and 1946. They are quite large animals, comparable in size to killer whales. Because of their similar distribution, they are often confused for the Monterey Bay Monster. Böbökalln - Adapted to resemble baboons, these specialized trolls act as bogeymen in Scandinavian countries, and are usually roughly around the size of a goblin or an imp. They are known to break into houses through windows or holes, and to abduct children that they view as naughty or irritating. A fur sample that is believed to be from the pelt of one of these creatures has been recovered. Bòcan - Akin to hobgoblins, these hairy Scottish faeries are usually mischievous and sometimes dangerous, but are known to maintain love-hate relationships with the human inhabitants of the households in which they dwell. Although they are well-known for causing destructive poltergeist-like activity, they are also said to help rebuild households or possibly even clear the space for new developments planned by their human co-inhabitants. Bocan - Causing poltergeist-like mischief in houses across England and Scotland, these malevolent household faeries play malicious pranks on the occupants of their targeted homes, such as pulling bedsheets off sleeping humans and spooking horses, and even kidnapping or eating people who wander off alone into swamps or marshes. They can be repelled either by hanging a horseshoe above the doors of at-risk houses or by placing piles of salt in the bedrooms of potential victims. Bocanach - Stalking the lonely country roads and abandoned battlefields of Britain, these beastly faeries resemble goblin-like creatures with the heads of goats. They have been known to eat corpses that they find, though are not active predators. They communicate with each other by making ghastly wails, often mistaken for those of banshees. Bodak - Born from the ruined souls of those who gaze upon the cosmic horrors of beings such as those mentioned in the fantasy literature of HP Lovecraft, these hideous humanoids wander the dimensions where the monsters that created them dwell, and only manifest in our world if they stumble through a portal or are deliberately summoned. They are driven solely by a hatred for living beings, and looking directly into their eyes can trigger the same transformation that they themselves endured. Bodaks seem to enjoy watching innocent humans transform, and some researchers have labelled them as undead greys. Bogatyr - Known for their courage and physical power, these Russian demigods are spoken of heavily in epic poetry, which document their quests to slay demons and various other monsters. Some of them are known to have been abnormally tall or even classifiable as giants, and they often wear heavy metal armor similar to that worn by iconic knights. Bogey - These vicious hairy humanoids are found in Europe and North America, and wield spears and other weapons akin to those used by prehistoric humans. They live in small tribes, and will build open fires late at night in the woodlands. They are known to eat human flesh, and are responsible for several unexplained disappearances. Boggart - Malevolent faeries, these household menaces originate from Scotland, and are well known for causing poltergeist-like mischief around the houses of their victims. They often attach themselves to particular families, and will throw objects, rip books and make loud whispering or screaming sounds at night. It is speculated that they may be brownies that were somehow wronged, and have adapted to retaliate. Boginki - Playing various sorts of mischief on local human populations, ranging from annoyingly tearing fishing nets and spooking cattle to poisoning drinks and luring men into swamps where they will drown, these aquatic Polish faeries are thought to have originally been failed attempts at creating humans by an ancient deity. They are known to attack human women kidnap human children in order to replace them with strange changelings called odmieńce. Bogle - Perplexing and annoying surrounding humans by playing frustrating tricks and causing general mischief, these curious English faeries usually appear as giant humanoids with porcine features. They have been known to throw objects through the windows of nearby houses, and are often spoken about as bogeymen, used to keep children out of potentially unsafe areas. Boiguaçu - Thought to be a close relative of the boitatá, this serpent lurks in Brazilian cornfields where it nocturnally feeds on animals up the size of human children. It is covered in blazing organs that resemble eyes, which are thought to be adaptations for its incredibly dark hunting ground. Any human who looks at these eyes is said to go blind, insane or even die, and so it is speculated that the creature has supernatural properties. Boitatá - Found in Brazilian forests and grasslands, these ferocious serpents can cover their bodies in flame by manipulating the chemical reaction of white phosphorus. They seem to act as protectors of their habitat, and are likely supernatural in origin, targeting all those who seek to exploit the natural resources of their habitat. It is unknown how they move through the extremely flammable forest environment safely, though it is known that they can. Bokol H'otoch - Creating loud thumping and imitating the sounds of whisks from underground with the intention of frightening humans in the houses above them, these mischievous Mayan faeries are found in Central America and Mexico, and are known to assume fox-like forms when they emerge from the ground at night. When they do this, they are also known to burrow into the thatching atop roofs and slam against windows or doors in order to wake up any sleeping humans and enjoy the annoyance it brings. Bokrug - One of the terrifying Great Old Ones, this enormous reptilian deity is said to be worshipped by the semi-amphibian race known as the Thuum'ha according to the arcane writings of HP Lovecraft, and was said to slumber in a calm lake situated close to the cities of Sarnath and Ib, but was awakened when the people of Sarnath slaughtered those of Ib and stole their idol to the god. A thousand years after the massacre of Ib, the deity rose up and completely destroyed Sarnath out of vengeance. Bokyboky - Akin to a large spotted civet in appearance, these strange Madagascan creatures are well-known for their large and bushy tails as well as their potent, noxious odor. According to local tradition, the mammals hunt lizards and snakes by inserting their tails into their burrows and farting, letting out a burst of poisonous gas. Bolla - Monstrous serpentine dragons, these creatures hibernate for most of the year in Albanian cave systems, and will wake on a particular day to find humans for food. If they can live for long enough without being noticed by human warriors, then they have a chance of evolving into a more powerful creature. When this happens, the beast will gain the ability to produce storms and floods at will. Bolman - Lurking in community houses across the Netherlands, these horrific bogeymen are best known for their glowing eyes and long claws. They are very agile creatures and are capable of remaining unseen by their victims for extended periods of time. If children do not sleep and thus see the monster, they will be kidnapped and taken to an underground lair. Bolotnik - Appearing as a long-armed and tailed creature covered in algae and dirt, these Latvian creatures lurk in swamps and require complete silence from passersby in order to let them live. If the intruders are misbehaving, then the creatures will pretend to be stepping stones and then vanish into the water at the last moment. They seem to derive a sick pleasure from watching their victims drown and desperately call for help. Bombo - Mentioned in ancient Greek philosophical literature, this demonic deity rules over crossroads and other potentially-haunted borders between areas. It is usually accompanied by the sounds of baying and howling hellhounds, and is capable of controlling demons and malevolent spirit entities in its vicinity. Great confusion regarding its name has come from a popular video game, in which the name was incorrectly translated as 'volvo'. Boneyard - Made entirely from the bones and bodies of other long-dead creatures, these vast creatures usually appear as serpentine monsters topped by the skulls of dragon-like beings, but are capable of changing their forms to resemble anything from a simple pile of bones to a skeletal humanoid. Their size differs based on how many skeletons they have subsumed, and are known by many different names based on where they are encountered, ranging from bone weirds to bonetakers. Bonhomme Sept-Heures - Visiting houses at around seven in the evening to steal misbehaving children and take them back to their lairs where they will be devoured, these monstrous boogeymen resemble giant humanoids that carry sacks either used to store their victims or contain sand to throw into the eyes of their victims. They will attack children in the French Canadian region of Quebec, appearing out of nowhere at seven o'clock and vanishing again once they have snatched their victims. Bonnacon - Found in Asia and Europe, these bizarre bovines are thought to be close relatives of bison, and have horse-like manes and inward-curving horns that are useless for defense. Instead, they are able to spew forth large quantities of highly acidic dung if they are startled or threatened, and are also known to produce a cloud of gas around them that is so hot that it can literally set fire to some materials. Boo Hag - Resembling skinless female bodies in their true forms, these grotesque North American vampires attack sleeping victims by riding on their chests and literally stealing their breath. They usually prefer to leave their victims alive, but will steal their skins if they struggle or if daytime is approaching, seeing as the creatures will be trapped forever without a skin if the Sun rises and they don't have one, and usually use the skins of their victims as camouflage in human society. Booaa - Named after the distinctive and terrifyingly clear calls that they emit, these large West African hyenas are thought by some to be a regional variant of the more common Nandi bear. They are red in coloration, and have large sloping backs that make them resemble gorillas or other large primates in some manner. There have been recorded attacks on humans. Boobooshaw - Stalking the outer forests and suburbs of Wisconsin in North American during the 1960s, these terrifying entities are thought to be related to shadow people, and usually resemble tall and thin beings. They are completely black in color, and are often used as bogeymen figures in local urban legends. Boobrie - Monstrous Scottish water birds, tales of these shapeshifting beasts have been passed down from generation to generation since the 19th century. They will feed on both fish and livestock, and are capable of coming ashore to capture large animals in their toothy beaks. Frighteningly, they are also capable of shapeshifting into the forms of a water-horse or large bull. Booger Dog - Named after terrifying faeries known as Bogles, these North American hellhounds are found in the forests of the Ozark region, and are described as enormous, headless hounds which appear to hunting parties deep in mountainous woodland areas. Like other spectral black dogs, they are considered to be bad omens, and are sometimes associated with demons and even the Devil himself. They are sometimes said to be closely related to Yeth Hounds, and may be the ghosts of the unbaptised. Boogeyman - Feeding on children whom they deem to have misbehaved, these urban monsters are often spoken of in North American and European folklore. They hide in dark and enclosed areas in households, such as in wardrobes or under beds. No one description of one of these creatures is ever the same because of their powerful shapeshifting abilities. Boongurunguru - Appearing as a large hog or pig, these faery creatures stalk forest areas in the Solomon Island. They are surrounded by a swarm of aggressive hornets at all time, and lead a herd of similar animals to themselves. It is said that this herd's appearance foretells death. Boq - Also known as 'Boqs' depending on the source, these hairy humanoid creatures are known from the legends of the Bella Coola community of Canada, as well as from the Pacific Coast of North America, and are described as hunch-backed creatures with thick coats of fur and arms long enough to swing below their knees. They live in large groups, whistling when attacked to call for reinforcements, and are believed to have magical abilities enabling them to drain the water away from areas of land. Borda - Spoken of in the Italian folklore of Emilia-Romagna, these hideous, blindfolded hags manifest in swamps at night or on foggy days with the intentions of killing anyone that they come into contact with, and are thus often used as boogeymen by parents to discourage their children from entering the swamplands. They are referenced in lullabies, in which they are said to strangle badly-behaved children with ropes or lassos, possibly a reference to human sacrifice rituals involving peat bogs. Boreyne - Strange hybrid beasts, these European monsters are featured in ancient heraldic sources as bull-like creatures with curled horns and fins. They have back legs that resemble those of an eagle, and have long tongues that end with deadly venomous darts. Strangely, they seem to be semi-aquatic, as they are often found near lakes and rivers and have several large fins on their bodies. Boroboroton - Born from neglected bed sheets or futons, these Japanese tsukumogami resemble tattered blankets or duvets, and will rise up out of their usual position late at night, casting off an sleeping humans and then attempting to strangle them. They are usually born when the soul of the object starts to feel ignored or useless, and they strangle sleeping humans as a form of revenge. Either this, or they will float out of the house and attempt to find companions that need them more. Borogove - Found in the same 'Wonderland' dimension as the famous Jabberwocky, these exceedingly odd and mimsy birds almost resemble living mops, with spindly legs and messy feathers jutting out at all angles. They tend to make their nests on sundials, and have long curved beaks with which they hunt and eat deer. Some researchers have suggested that they are related to parrots. Boroka - Appearing as beautiful human women during the day, these carnivorous shapeshifters will sprout large wings and detach their torsos from the rest of their bodies at night. In this state, they will seek out sleeping victims and feed on their hearts and livers. They are recorded in the mythology of the Philippines. Bortbyting - Almost identical to changelings, these Scandinavian trolls are known to leave their underdeveloped children instead of human offspring that they kidnap and hold as captives. Apparently, a human upbringing is healthier for trolls than anything that their own species can offer. Like other changelings, they can be forced out of a victim's home by confusing them, with deliberately bizarre customs and rituals. Boston Lemur - Sighted in 2002 and 2008, these North American primates resemble hybrids of large lemurs and foxes, and have mostly hairless tails with bushy areas at their tips. They are not hostile towards humans, nor are they afraid of them, but will hiss if people get too close. When they were first seen, there was some speculation that they may represent genetically modified monkeys, possibly deployed on Earth by ultraterrestrials or grey aliens. Bouders - Enormous in both power and stature, these brutish Djinn are referred to as standing guard over powerful Hindu deities such as Shiva in Indian mythology. Very little is known about their lifestyle or abilities, and they are rarely seen because of the sparsely with which deities manifest on Earth. They are thought to be evil, and are distantly related to demons. Böxenwolf - Although they may look terrifying, these creatures are formed when humans use shamanic magic to take on a werewolf-like form, often by using something called a 'wolf-strap'. Encounters with these German beasts are rarely lethal, seeing as the monster will normally just rob passersby under the threat of violence. Bøyg - Resembling enormous slimy serpents or invertebrates at first glance, these trolls are some of the most amazingly adapted members of their group, and are known from the folklore of Scandinavian regions. They live around shallow and polluted pools of water in mountainous regions, and often pose serious problems for travelers moving along narrow paths. Their name translates as 'twist' or 'curve' because of their long tails. Bradador - Running through Brazilian villages producing terrifying screeches and screams, these incorporeal are born from the wrathful ghosts of people whose bodies have reanimated as undead. They resemble mummies, and are covered in long and flowing bandages, and cannot enter the Afterlife until they have separately atoned for all their sins. Brag - Often assuming the forms of horses, these mischievous British goblins are nowhere near as dangerous as other kelpie-like faeries that are found in the same area, and are usually just content to throw their riders off their backs into ponds and then laugh. They enjoy playing malicious tricks on people, though are not known to kill people deliberately. If one suspects a horse of being a brag, the goblin features should become visible upon close inspection. Brahmaparusha - Feeding on the brains and blood of their victims and using their entrails as trophies and ornamentation, these horrendous Indian vampires are thought to represent hybrids of demons and the infamous undead monsters. They are incredibly difficult to kill, and have been known to possess human corpses in order to camouflage themselves among their potential victims' communities. Bralani - Always on the lookout for chances to test their battle skills, these silver-haired humanoids are some of the wildest and fiercest of the Azatas, and are known to either take elf-like forms or those of whirling tornadoes of dust or snow. They delight in violent weather because of the energy that is emitted by storms, and sometimes act as mediators and intermediaries between humans and faeries, always quick to suggest friendly competitions and games to resolve disputes. Brassknocker Beast - Encounters with this ursine beast began in England around 1979, when the populace of the town for which the beast is named discovered bark torn from trees. The creature was described as having a body like a chimpanzee with the face of a bear and two white rings around its eyes. It has not been seen since the first spate of sightings, and so there is speculation that the species may either be extinct, or just in hiding. Brentford Griffin - This peculiar cousin of the more common European creature was said to have been common in London and other British cities in past years, though is not seen often nowadays. It has a more canine posterior, and appears to display a reptilian forked tongue. Bridge Troll - Mid-sized creatures, these European beasts are often slightly shorter than humans, and make their lairs in dark and secluded areas such as under bridges. They enjoy riches and gold, though will also kill animals that try to cross their bridges. They can use magic to shapeshift. Brigdi - Sometimes said to be naught more than errant basking sharks, these unique Scottish sea monsters are found in the waters surrounding the Shetlands, and resemble large fish with enormous fins, which they can use to completely envelop small boats and drag them down to the depths. Fishermen would quickly leave areas of water in which Bridgi were present out of extreme fear. Axes are sometimes carried on boats to slash at their fins, and they will vanish if amber beads are thrown at them. British Troll - Differing from trows despite popular assertion, these horned creatures have been witnessed all across the British Isles, stalking forest campsites and running across open fields. Sunlight does not appear to hurt them, and the males of the species have long horns. The most recent sighting involved one of the creatures chasing a train in London. Brno Dragon - Lurking in the fields and forests of the Czech Republic, these fully terrestrial crocodiles are often mistaken for dragons or wyrms because of their habit of killing livestock overnight. It is said that the first member of this species to be discovered was killed by a large quantity of a toxic chemical that was placed in a carcass by frightened villagers. Brobinyak - Half dragon and half ogre, these monstrous beings are known from English folklore and mythology, in which they are often used as 'boogeyman' figures. They can spit fire, and some of them have enormous reptilian wings, though most of them do not. Like other bogeymen, they love eating the flesh of human children, and are attracted to those that have misbehaved. Brollachan - Comprised of shapeless black smoke, these Scottish monsters are thought to be associated with kelpies and faeries, and to be capable of possessing the bodies of human hosts. They can only be removed from these human victims by use of a traditional Gaelic ritual involving herbal medicine and chanting incantations. Even after this, the creature can still curse those close by. Brøndmand - Living in Danish wells, these monsters feed on the fear that they generate, and use the souls of those who die in their wells to make people in nearby villages sick. Christian imagery has no adverse effect on the beasts, which confirms that they are not demonic in origin, though they can be paid to leave through gifts of gold. Brownie - Found mostly in England and Scotland, these helpful faeries will live in households, and aid the owners with tasks during the night. They have a noticeable dislike of being seen, however, and will instantly disappear if they are witnessed. Brownie - Found mostly in England and Scotland, these helpful faeries will live in households, and aid the owners with tasks during the night. They have a noticeable dislike of being seen, however, and will instantly disappear if they are witnessed. There is some evidence that they will transform into boggarts if angered or neglected, but can be cured of this state using cream or milk. Broxa - These mid-sized dromaeosaurs are found in the Middle East, and will invade farmland at night to feed on the blood of livestock. This behavior has led to speculation that they are related to the fabled chupacabra. Bruch - Monstrous Irish insects, these creatures resemble flightless locusts with iron spines covering their bodies and wings, as well as supernaturally blazing red eyes. They creep into the orchards of those that they deem to be evil people, and destroy the trees and crops by impaling them onto their spikes and then carrying them off. Bruckee - Giant faery badgers, these beasts are roughly the size of brown bears, and are found in deep burrows among the forests of Ireland. They are deadly predators of humans and livestock alike, though their continued absence up until recently led to belief that they were extinct. However, recent attacks in both Ireland and Wales confirms that they are still very much alive, and may be expanding their territory. Brucolaco - Very little is known about these bizarre Greek vampires, which are formed from the bodies of those who are either excommunicated from their church before dying, or have eaten the meat of a sheep killed by a werewolf during their lifetime. They will reanimate as monstrous aberrations, with taught skin like the surface of a drum, and the ability to produce ear-splitting shrieks. They drain the life-forces of their victims, and can only be killed by decapitation on the Sabbath. Bruder Rausch - Responsible for generating drunkenness and debauchery, these German demons usually shapeshift into the forms of humans that they kill in order to assume positions of trust within communities. They are usually tricksters and pranksters, enjoying organizing lechery and criminal activities in groups of people, specifically those of a religious focus such as monasteries. Like other demons, they can be removed from a possessed victim by exorcism. Bruja - Found in Europe, and more recently North America, these witches were once human though have now become flying monsters more closely related to shtrigas. They are usually cloaked in black cloth, and have long dark hair as well as black eyes. They appear to be hostile to those that they encounter, and have been recorded to jump onto cars that pass them. Bruja - Sometimes referred to as the 'Flying Fiends of Mexico City', these terrifying entities are thought to be witches or other dark magic users, and resemble feminine humanoids with hideous appearances and long black cloaks with hoods, and sometimes even avian talons or feathery wings. They were first seen in 2004, when a police officer named Leonardo Samaniego was attacked by one of them in an abandoned area of the Mexican locale of Monterrey. Their name is also a synoynm of 'witch'. Brujo - Attested to in the superstitions of numerous Spanish-speaking countries, notably Argentina and Mexico, these powerful dark magic users are usually people who are isolated from modern society, and use their abilities to curse or hex those around them. They are not necessarily evil, though most of them have malevolent intent with their intricate charms and hexes. Brujo Chilote - Frightening supernatural magic users, these dark variants of warlocks are found in caves and small clans across Chile. They are said to kidnap children from local villages and spread incurable sicknesses, and seem to be only male in gender. Apparently, the first of their number was a sorcerer who wanted to prove that he was the best in the country, and became eventually corrupted due to this quest. Brunnmigi - Similar to the deadly Afanc, these fox-like beasts are mentioned in Norse mythology, and are capable of poisoning and defiling water supplies by simply coming into contact with them. Their name literally translates to describe the act of urinating in a well, which suggests that they may produce some kind of secretion that provides their extremely toxic aura. Bruno Ghibaudi's Finner - Commonly mistaken for UFOs, these metallic-looking atmospheric beasts have three fin-shaped wings on their bodies, and are named after the first person to them, on an Italian beach in 1961. They are thought to be related to molluscs because of their amorphous and slimy bodies, which have sometimes been known to assume the shapes of disks when flying over wide stretches of flat terrain, such as oceans or bodies of water. Brute - Capable of changing their genders instantly, these monstrous hyenas are spoken of in the lore of ancient Greece and Latin Christianity, in which they are referred to as poisonous. They live in large caves and eat the corpses of humans, though are sometimes known to resort to cannibalism. Their dens are infamously unclean, and they are used as metaphors for sin and spiritual crimes. Bruxsa - Bloodsucking creatures, these Portuguese witches have acquired a monstrous form through making deals with various demons, and feed on children. They are known to break into homes overnight and drain the blood from sleeping children, and can only be prevented from doing this by giving the child an iron amulet. When they are not hunting children, they are known to torment travelers using shapeshifting abilities. B'Tsan - Appearing as humanoids riding on blood red horses, these ferocious Tibetan demons wield bows that fire flurries of arrows. Anyone who finds themselves alone in the mountain wilderness will soon be hunted and killed by large groups of these creatures. There is speculation that they may be more closely related to djinn than demons, because of their inability to possess human bodies. Buachaileen - Appearing as ugly humanoids with red caps and clawed hands, these Scottish faeries provide a consistent menace to shepherds and farmers, because they delight in stealing livestock and shearing sheep. Other faeries in rural areas have even taken to defending human settlements against these mischievous creatures, though this is not always successful. Bubak - Luring victims to their deaths by crying like an innocent baby, these terrifying creatures are found in the forests of the Czech Republic, and resemble tattered and grotesque scarecrows. They weave cloth from the souls of those that they kill, and move around in carts pulled by hordes of demonic cats. Buckrider - Emaciated humanoids, these monsters are the souls of dark magic users who have been resurrected by demons, and sent to cause havoc among the living. They ride atop bizarre flying goats, and are known to raid farms and small villages, pillaging supplies and murdering innocents. These raids are known to have happened all over Europe in ancient times, though now seem to be restricted to the Netherlands. Buda - Capable of transforming into a hyena, these African shapeshifters are often descended from an individual who used a dark magic charm to attack others. Their attacks are often blamed on different ethnic groups in a community, which creates the discord and tension on which the creatures feed. In order to prevent attacks from the beasts, amulets created by priests are carried around by potential targets. Buddha - Although associated with the modern representation of a heavily overweight man, these peaceful beings are far more ancient in origin, and are thought to be originally descended from a religious figure in ancient India. They are capable of controlling their bodily functions using their minds, as well as instantly resolving conflicts with nothing but their touch. Because of their stigmatized reputation in the modern day, many individuals of this group have gone into hiding. Buer - Sometimes referred to as the 'roving mauler', this bizarre demon is summoned by dark magic users because of its superior knowledge of philosophy and use of plants and herbs in witchcraft. It is a president of Hell that presides over fifty legions of demons and is responsible for assigning familiars to witches. Usually, it takes the form of a lion's head with five legs, but it has sometimes been known to shapeshift into a centaur-like being. Buffalo Lion - Lacking the distinctive manes of other lion species, these large and aggressive African creatures gain their name from their diet of buffalo, and are also known to hunt and kill humans. Unlike other lions, they hunt alone rather than in packs. Some researchers have suggested that they are simply male lions with genetic defects. Bugaboo - Hiding in the cellars and attics of Europe, these vicious monsters resemble rotting human corpses, and feed on children that they deem to be naughty. They are thought to be closely related to bogeymen, and are often accidentally summoned and set on children by annoyed parents. Bugbear - Lithe and nimble relatives of the bogeymen, these creatures were originally only to be found in the dark woodlands of Scotland and England, though now haunt most European suburbs. They have spindly limbs and long, lank hair, as well as deadly claws and teeth that resemble those of their ursine namesake. This specially adapted frame is used for climbing into the windows of unsuspecting households during the nights. Buggane - Native to the Isle of Man, these hairy faeries are capable of manipulating luck and controlling the weather and climate in their surroundings. They have glowing yellow eyes and tusks, and are unable to cross running water or stand on hallowed ground because of their monstrous nature. Due to their superior strength, they are sometimes used as hit-men or assassins by more intelligent faeries. Bugge - Similar to bogeymen, these monstrous creatures are known from the lore of medieval England, in which they were somehow often mistaken for hobgoblins. They are much less intelligent than their various counterparts, and prefer to hide in deep forests in large groups. These groups will hunt humans that they find, though have been known to squabble among themselves. Bugut Stele - Found in the deserts and plains of Mongolia and Asia, these massively strong tortoises mimic the appearance of ornate stone carvings, and are often used to lead parades at the funerals of monarchs or political leaders because of this. Their mountainous shells are sometimes built upon, and have been seen to carry carefully sculpted statues or pillars. They are thought to be closely related to bixi. Bukavac - These six-legged dragons are found in lakes and rivers in Slavic counties, and have gnarled horns with which they wrestle rival individuals. They are known for emerging from the water at night and making hellishly loud noises before pouncing on humans and animals and strangling them to death. Bukwus - Formed from the vengeful souls and decaying bodies of drowned humans, these skeletal North American undead are often found on the shores of swamps or lakes across the country. They have been known to attempt to tempt humans into eating poisoned food or walking into their lake habitat. If victims do this, they will be killed and transformed into another one of the monsters. Bulgasari - Practically immortal, these relatives of the baku are found in Korea, and seem to consume iron as well as dreams and nightmares. Their body is that of a bear rather than a cow or tiger, and they seem to be more hostile than their counterparts. In the native Korean language, their name means 'cannot kill'. Bulgu - Fearsome ogres, these Ethiopian monstrosities are said to have heads like axe blades, and four arms ending in deadly claws. They will consume children and then stalk all those who witness the crime, using magic to kill them if they tell anyone about the event. Because of this, stories of the atrocities committed by these creatures are rarely heard. Bull Beggar - Referred to in British folklore, these ghastly apparitions are thought to either be demons or ghosts, and take sickening pleasure in pulling their heads from their shoulders to scare passersby. They can often be found lurking around ancient burial sites and abandoned castles, and will sometimes lie on the ground as if they are injured, and then leap up and scream at would-be good samaritans. Bultungin - Transforming into hyena-like monstrosities, these shapeshifting dark magic users are described in the Chad mythology of North-Central Africa, in which they are said to assume animalistic forms every night to desecrate graves and eat human corpses. They are thought to be related to the Ethiopian creatures known as Buda because of their similar geographical locations and shapeshifting abilities. Like Budas, they are sometimes thought to act as blacksmiths by day. Bulyeowoo - Born when foxes reach ages of up to 100 years old, these mighty Korean shapeshifters usually resemble foxes covered in blazing flames and magma, but are capable of assuming the forms of beautiful human women. They do this to seduce and trick unwary men into entering isolated locations, in which they will then be burnt to death and the fox will feed on their liver. Buné - Resembling a three-headed dragon with heads that appear as hybrids of canine, humanoid and dragon-like features, this powerful demon is regarded as a Duke of Hell, and is responsible for corrupting human souls and transforming them into demons. It is sometimes summoned by dark magic users because of its ability to give people true answers to their desires, and provide them with riches and wealth. Bungisngis - One-eyed Filipino giants, these monsters live in mountain caves, and constantly emit a loud cry that resembles hysterical human laughter. They have two long tusks, and an incredible sense of hearing that they can use to track prey in total darkness. Although they display terrifying physical strength, they are easily outwitted and tricked by humans. Bunis - Among the legions of monstrous demons controlled by the Goetic Buné, these malignant spirits are said to have been regarded as extremely evil and almost infinitely powerful by the Tartars, but these people still maintain contact with them. Like Buné, they are found in cemeteries and graveyards, and are sometimes equated with ghouls or other corpse-eating entities. Buné is said to hold sway over the forces of the dead, being in charge of rallying ghoulish demons and undead. Bunyip - Two descriptions of these animals rarely match, seeing as the deadly Australian beasts are constantly shapeshifting, though are most often said to resemble a giant tusked crocodile or seal. They are greatly feared by Aboriginal populations, and have been recorded to produce horrifying bellowing sounds from swamps overnight. The monsters are responsible for several human disappearances. Burach Bhadi - Grotesque giant leeches, these creatures are found in the murky swamps and riverbanks of Britain and Scotland, and will wait for riders on horseback to cross the water. They will then follow the riders using their sense of smell, and drag the horse and the human down into the depths using their coiling bodies. When food is scarce, the creatures have been known to come up onto land or eat members of their own kind. Burāq - Often used as the steeds and guardians for prophets selected by celestial entities, these heavenly creatures resemble horses or mules with humanoid faces. They have large blue wings, and tails resembling those of peacocks. If the prophet that they are protecting is threatened, the creatures can manipulate electricity and magnetic fields to generate powerful lightning bolts. Burlap Man - First seen in the North American locale of Waukesha County in 1993 by a witness driving down Highway 67, this strangely-named creature was described as a dogman-like entity with a humanoid body and the head of a canid. It was said to be thickly covered in dark fur and to have had a muscular body, standing about 6ft-tall on its hind legs. Due to its appearance and locality, it is thought to be related to the Bray Road Beast, possibly being a different name for the same creature. Burr's Salamander - Large saltwater amphibians, these uniquely adapted amphibians are found in the waters in tropical areas and other warm seas, where they feed on fish and spawn around beaches. Due to the long fins along their backs, and their long necks, they are often mistaken for sea serpents. Burrunjor - Found in the outback of Australia, this flightless species of dragon has evolved isolated from its kin, and so has thus adapted to mimic the lifestyle of a theropod dinosaur. It has been known to invade human farmland and snatch livestock under the cover of night, though this behavior has not been seen recently. Buruburu - Also referred to as 'Zozogami', these ghosts inhabit areas of large human population density such as cities, and are formed from the tormented souls of those who died having committed a great and unforgivable act of cowardice, thus damning their spirits to cause those who come into contact with them to shudder in fear uncontrollably. They possess people by attaching themselves to their shirt collars and touching the backs of their necks, causing their hair to stand up on end. Burulakaw - Resembling small women with powerful flames instead of hair, these 3ft tall faeries are found in the forests of the Philippines, and are known to swoop directly upwards from lakes or streams before disappearing when they reach their destination. They are often mistaken for elementals due to their fiery appearance, and they serve more powerful faeries called Encanto. Bus to Nowhere - A truly melancholy phenomenon, this phantom vehicle is said to appear to those who are truly lost and hopeless in North America, and transport them into a new life without any memory of their past. It is said that the passengers sit on the bus in a daze of misery, and will eventually pull a cord to get off when they finally regain consciousness. Bush Dai-Dai - This South American monster often takes the form of a beautiful woman, and wanders into miners' camps to seduce its victims. After doing so, it will transform back into its true form, which resembles a winged jaguar, and consume the unsuspecting humans. The local folklore describes the creature as a woman who committed a heinous crime in life, and was thus transformed into a monster after death. Bushtra - Living only to inflict harm and misery on other creatures, these foul Albanian shapeshifters resemble werewolf-like creatures in their true forms, but also often assume the forms of hideous hags. They are thought to originally come from Hell, and are capable of spitting large bursts of fire and brimstone at their victims. Bushyasta - Representing the sin of sloth in Zoroastrian tradition, these hideous demons appear as corpse-like humanoids with yellowed skin and flaking flesh. They are responsible for procrastination, and are tasked with forcing religious officials to sleep through their duties. It is said that their voices cause comas. Buso - Found in the grasslands and forests of the Philippines, these ghoulish creatures resemble skinny humanoids with long hair and single yellow eyes. They are always hungry, and constantly scavenge for carrion and the flesh of human corpses, which they can often be seen digging up. Although they usually live in secluded locations, they have been occasionally known to attack living humans, but can be frightened away by dogs or other large animals. Buta Cakil - Hideous Indonesian ogres with protruding lower jaws and hook-like teeth, these monstrous giants are said to have taken part in a mythological war called 'Perang Kembang' between humans and a clan of at least three giants. It is said that they were born as the bastard children of a deity named Arjuna who raped the beautiful wife of a god that he had defeated, resulting in the children going unrecognised and coming to represent vengeance and fury in local puppet shows. Butatsch Cun Ilgs - Resembling a mass of flesh covered in blazing eyes, these Swiss aberrations are said to appear similar to a cow's stomach, and to emerge from mountain springs when the local ecosystem is in danger. If someone is trying to hunt livestock without permission, one of the creatures will pursue them and summon flames to burn them to death. Butterfly Person - After a massive tornado tore through Missouri in 2011 and killed 158 people, victims who may otherwise have been killed by the disaster started to report encounters with bizarre winged humanoids, filling the area of Joplin with hope of angelic intervention. Stories featuring the winged saviours include those of children who were either shielded from flying debris or carried away from dangerous scenes by beings they later described as beautiful humanoids with butterfly wings. Buwaya - Sometimes called the coffin crocodile for obvious reasons, these Filipino reptiles are known to lurk in deep rivers and lakes, and to catch prey up to the size of a large cow in their gaping mouths. They have large sacks of skin underneath their jaws, in which living prey items are subdued and transported to and from a nest. There are reports of the creatures also being found in sea-caves and other marine environments, though these are unconfirmed. Byakhee - Utterly repulsive beings described in the writings of HP Lovecraft, these bizarre chimeras combine the features of birds, bats, insects and decomposing humans, and usually dwell in the vacuum of space until they are called upon by the followers of an ancient deity named Hastur, whom they serve. Despite their monstrous appearance and interstellar nature, they are made of ordinary biological matter and so can be killed using conventional weaponry when they appear on Earth. Byakko - Appearing as white tiger-like humanoids, these shapeshifting creatures are found mostly in the West of the world. They have the ability to the ability to control the wind and the atmosphere around them, which enables them to defend themselves. Despite this, they are usually wise and calm personalities. Bythiae - Found in Russia and Ukraine, these creatures were only briefly mentioned in ancient texts due to their ability to keep a low profile easily. They are entirely female as a race, though are able to morph into a male using blood contact with someone of that gender, which effectively enables them to go unpunished for their crimes. Caab - These strange aquatic ungulates are found in the waters around Italy and Europe, where they feed on seaweed and water plants in small numbers. They are rarely ever seen, and only haul themselves out onto beaches to breed at night. Caballeros - Sworn to eternal combat, these ancient Spanish knights were unaware that they were making a deal with a trickster deity when they pledged an oath of faithfulness. Although their bodies may rot, their minds and physical strength will continue to live for as long as the deity does. They are responsible for several of the seemingly inexplicable hollow knight sightings that are reported. Caballucos del Diablu - Appearing when fires are used to purify the souls of religious families in a particular Spanish tradition, these demonic faeries resemble horses with giant dragonfly wings. They dart around among the fire, representing the burning souls of sinners, releasing their fury with terrifying screams. The different colors of the monsters resemble different sins that people have committed. Cabbyl-Ushtey - Found on the Isle of Man, these watery shapeshifters often take on the form of a horse or kelpie to lure humans onto their backs. When people do this, the animal's hide becomes instantly adhesive and the victims are drowned and eaten. Caboclo d'Água - Aquatic humanoids with bulky bodies and bronzed scales, these South American monsters enjoy submerging themselves in the deep muddy beds of local rivers. Their attitudes are highly changeable, and they have been known to flip over the boats of people that they dislike. However, if a bond is formed between a fisherman and one of these creatures, the beasts will lure fish into their nets. Cabrakán - Enormous and foul-tempered, these Mayan demons are sometimes referred to as dark gods in the local Central American culture, and are capable of creating earthquakes and other tectonic disasters. They are usually found in mountainous regions, and are famously violent and arrogant, easily outwitted by humans. Cac Ditsini - Known from Native American folklore, this monstrous earth elemental resembles an enormous mountain in its true form, but is commonly known to shapeshift into the form of a giant, reclining bear. While in this shape, it often eats foolhardy travellers using its gaping stone maw. Interestingly, atmospheric conditions around its mouth are usually conducive to high winds that are capable of blowing people off trails and into its jaws. Cacodemon - Sometimes thought to be related to the North American Jersey Devil, these Grecian spirits resemble bipedal winged beasts in their true form. However, they are more well known for possessing people who wander through their pine forest habitat, and inducing madness and cannibalism in these victims. Like all demons, they can be repelled using holy water and iron weaponry. Cactus Cat - Truly bizarre desert predators, these elemental felines are found in the deserts of North America, and use their spiny bodies to pierce the skins of cacti in order to drink their juice. Despite their dangerous disposition, they mate for life, and use the smell of cacti to attract potential partners during mating season. Fights between females then begin, and the winner gets to mate. Cacus - Living among various volcanoes and mountains in Italy and Europe, these monstrous giants are capable of producing vast amounts of fire and smoke from their mouths to protect their territory. They enjoy kidnapping and eating livestock such as cattle, and the most famous member of the species thus attracted to attention of Heracles. The demigod then promptly strangled the monster to death. Cadborosaurus - Closely related to seals and sea-lions, these serpentine creatures are known from the folklore of Canada and the North American coast. Sightings of the animals have been happening for centuries, and several live specimens are reputed to have been previously captured. They swim using vertical undulating motions, and the males of the species have horse-like manes. Cadejo - Supernatural creatures, these relatives of the hellhound come from Mexico and North America, and resemble a hybrid of a small hound and a goat. They travel in closely-bonded pairs, with one being white and the other jet black. It is said that those who witness these beasts will get very ill and die. Cadı - Ostensibly undead witches, these Bulgarian dark magic users are sometimes conflated with vampires, and are said to have laid seige to the city of Tirnovo in 1833, spoiling food sources, causing poltergeist activity and assaulting people using supernaturally-heavy sources of weight. This seige eventually came to an end when the bodies of two soldiers who were murderers in life were burnt, after destroying their hearts with boiling water and stabbing wooden stakes through them didn't work. Cagn - Resembling a large praying mantises, these shapeshifting African beings are sometimes referred to as creator gods in the folklore of the local area. They are mischievous and wrathful, and view themselves as superior to much of the flora and fauna around them. It is said that if their blood is spilled, the drops will become living animals that avenge the death of the creature. Cagrino - This Romanian rodent resembles a hedgehog covered in vibrant yellow quills, and hides in burrows in deep forests. As defense, it urinates on potential aggressors, which causes them extreme physical and emotional distress through unknown means. It is speculated that this may be achieved through the use of pheromone secretions. Cahill Abductor - It was 1993 when Kelly Cahill was driving with her husband in the Australian hills of the Mount Dandenong Ranges when she came face-to-face with these bizarre ultraterrestrial beings, which were described as having blacker-than-black bodies much like shadow people, and having bright red eyes. The UFO from which the alien beings had emerged seemed to have a strange magnetic effect, and Kelly blacked out. Later, both she and her husband would notice strange marks on their bodies and that they had lost an hour of time. Cailleach - Similar to the Poludnica, these Irish hags live in caves for most of the year, but will emerge to gather firewood on the first day of February. If the weather is good, the creatures will be able to gather wood and the Winter will go on as usual. However, if the creature cannot find wood then the Winter will finish suddenly, resulting in disturbances to agricultural practices. Cain - This powerful demon is mentioned in the Judeo-Christian Old Testament, and is described as once having been a human who was tricked by Lucifer into murdering his own brother. This meant that he was the first human ever to commit this crime, and was thus exiled by God himself and slowly transformed into a demon. He now wanders the Earth, feeding on the terror that his random crimes bring. Caladrius - This bird is found in European areas, and has the ability to sense diseases, as well as either healing them or prophesying when the ailment will kill the sufferer. There is some speculation that the animal may be angelic in origin. Caleuche - Terrifying phantom smuggling vessels, these Chilean ghost ships are crewed by undead monstrosities, and constantly emit a hypnotic song that compels human sailors to join their crews. It is said that the crew of this ship will make pacts and deals with human smugglers, giving them magical abilities in return for permission to use their houses for dark rituals. Callitrix - Hiding from human contact in the jungles of Africa, these horned apes are thought to be related to satyrs, and are mentioned in the writings of medieval European explorers. They have thick tails and hairy beards, and are known to be easy to capture and kill if they are seen. It is for this reason that they are so reclusive and prefer to live in tree canopies where they cannot be observed. Calopus - Resembling a hybrid of a wolf and a porcupine with the horns of a ram, these predators are now found in Northern England, though are thought to have been imported there from the Middle East. They can run incredibly quickly on their cloven hooves, and can use their curling horns to knock down trees into which their prey could escape. Luckily, however, they are rarely known to hunt humans. Calygreyhound - Capable of moving at extreme speeds, these horned monsters were depicted in the heraldic artwork of medieval Europe, and resemble lions with the forelimbs of a large bird or eagle. They have hooves on their back legs as well as arching horns like an antelope, and so an identity as a mesonychid has been proposed. Camacrusa - Usually appearing as nothing more than a disembodied and flayed human leg, these nocturnal French creatures are well known for hunting young children who stay outside after dark. Despite their somewhat comical appearance, they are capable of moving with extreme speed and jumping long distances, though how they consume their prey is unknown. Camahueto - Strange, semi-aquatic relatives of cows, these animals swim between the various rocky islands off the coast of Chile and South America. Their unicorn-like horns are highly prized by native shamans because they believe that they have magical abilities, such as restoring youth to the old and generating large floods of water. These anecdotes are unconfirmed, though it is suspected that they are nothing more than superstition. Camazotz - First spoken of in Mayan tradition, these bat-like monsters are demons that can possess people and transform them into hideous winged atrocities. They constantly emit a pheromone that attracts massive swarms of bats from the surrounding area, all of which carry the transformative curse in their bites. Cambion - Born from the unnatural unison of an incubus demon and a human female, these beings are half demonic and half human. They have the soul and free will of humans, though have the abilities and capacity for evil of demons. Because they have a human soul, they are immune to many of the weapons and sigils that would hurt their demonic kin. Cameleopardel - These chimerical beasts are to be found in the deserts and grasslands of Europe, and are thought to be closely related to the similarly-named camelopard mentioned in Roman folklore. As opposed to their relatives, these creatures appear to be more dragon-like, and are often reported to have two long horns on their heads. Camelopard - First described by the ancient Romans, these four-legged predators are said to look like vaguely reptilian hybrids of camels and leopards, and to be found on the plains and grasslands of Africa. It was long assumed that this description was simply a failed attempt at denoting a giraffe, though this has since been proven wrong with the discovery of the creatures. Camphruch - Feeding on fish, these strange monotremes have a single horn on their foreheads, and front limbs that resemble hooves. They live amphibious lifestyles, lurking in African rivers and spearing passing fish using their long horns, which are able to be moved around like a rooster's comb. Despite their carnivorous diet, they are not known to attack humans, and their horns are said to cure diseases if ground into a powder. Camulatz - Hideous birds spoken of in South American lore, these sadistic animals resemble parrots, and use their dexterous talons to tear off the heads of their human prey. Being rather intelligent avians, the twisted creatures then keep these remains as trophies. They are thought to have originally been created by an evil deity, and still serve this being today. Candileja - Originally human, this Colombian ghost is the spirit of an old woman who neglected to teach her grandchildren any moral standards, and did nothing when they grew up to be killers and thieves. As punishment for this behavior, she is now doomed to forever wander the Earth in a body that is eternally alight with hellish flames. Candyman - Springing to life from the stories of both a fictional novel and a series of popular films, this terrifying tulpa appears as a wrathful undead being with a beehive in its chest and a rusty hook in place of a hand. According to the legend, it was originally a slave who was mutilated by his officers and then stung to death by a swarm of bees. Similar to Bloody Mary, saying its name five times in a mirror will summon it. Canvey Island Monster - Closely related to angler fish, these hideous semi-aquatic creatures were first recorded from their namesake English locale in 1953, and resemble reddish fish with large teeth and two muscular hind legs. They have not been seen in recent times, and some researchers have suggested that they might usually dwell in deep sea regions, and that the two bodies that were washed up in the 1950s had somehow made their way to the surface. Canvey Monster - Known from a single mystery corpse, these fish have a body akin to that of an angler fish with small legs. They have razor-sharp teeth and large eyes, but have not been seen since it was first sighted. It is assumed that this species may now be extinct. Caoineag - Wailing loudly to foretell the advent of death or great sorrow for those around them, these eerie Scottish faeries dwell around riverbanks and waterfalls, and resemble hybrids of equine kelpies and haggish humanoids. They are thought to be closely related to banshees, and are known to have the ability to make themselves completely invisible. Căpcăun - Man-eating Romanian variants of the European ogre, these hairy humanoids are known to kidnap human children and women, mostly princesses according to the local fairy-tales. They live in the mountains, and have faces like those of wolves or werewolves, apparently with multiple eyes on the forehead and nape. Cape Sable Serpent - Occurring in Canada, this incredibly strange aquatic enigma is described as having a long and segmented tail, tusks like those of a boar, and eyes on stalks. It is supposed to attack and harass ships that are sailing in its habitat, and seems to be nocturnal in doing so. Caponi - Sighted in Italy, these curious ultraterrestrial beings resemble Grey aliens with baggy red or orange skin, and are known to have originally been mistaken for litter or debris during several accounts. They are minuscule in size, being only 80cm tall, and their appearance has led to them being given the nickname of 'gingerbread men'. Capricorn - These aquatic goats have long horns and scaly tails, and swim in Western oceans and seas in large pods. These massive groups will get together in the Winter, which is where the ideology of the creatures representing the Winter months in the zodiac. Carabosse - Appearing to young children and babies at their christenings, and often placing debilitating curses on them, these wicked faeries are mentioned in the fairy-tale literature of Europe. They are recorded in the oldest version of the 'Sleeping Beauty' story as cursing the titular character because her parents didn't invite them to the christening. In modern times, they have become known as 'Maleficent'. Carbuncle - Making their homes in the mountains of South America, these small mammals resemble cats or rodents with large gemstones in their foreheads. They are very rarely seen, although they are sought after, because they only come down from the mountains at night to find water. The gems in their foreheads glow red, and are prized by hunters because of their ability to either cure or inflict blindness. Cardiff Giant - Another ill-conceived hoax come to life, the first of these monstrous stone figures was carved and buried in the ground around New York in 1869. It was exhumed by a group of farmers and displayed as an amazing archaeological discovery, which allowed the being to animate itself as a tulpa. Frighteningly, the creature then became self-aware enough to produce more of its kind by sculpting nearby rocks and cliffs. Caretyne - Found in the temperate forests of Europe, these peaceful mesonychids are thought to be evolutionary relatives of the vicious calygreyhound. They resemble cats with curving horns and long-haired tails, with powerful hooves on their feet like those of cows or oxen. Most of them have spots or stripes on their mottled pelts. Carian - Originally ethereal and incorporeal in form, these powerful alien beings are thought to have constructed physical bodies for themselves out of the genetics of animals on Earth, and thus resemble humanoid birds. They are thought to have genetically modified dinosaurs in ancient times to produce the modern Reptilians, and are thought to be a father race to these beings. Carrog - Like a cross between a dragon and a boar, these enormous Welsh creatures are renowned for their extreme physical strength and aggressive temperament. Little is known about the beasts despite their deadly habits and near-impenetrable armored hide. The first mention of the monsters appears to be in a journal written in 1896. Cartaphilus - Wandering the planet for over two thousand years, this immortal entity is said to have been a Jewish rabbi who was cursed by Jesus Christ himself because of his spiteful tongue and lack of empathy. The entity has been seen all across the world, from Britain to the Middle East, and usually appears as a man with a long beard and ragged clothing. Caspilly - Massive relatives of lionfish, these creatures are to be found in the Red Sea, and feed on various large aquatic animals by impaling them with the large and poisonous horn on their forehead. This horn is regarded with great medicinal value, and is said to be the only material that can cure the poisonous effects of the fish, and so the creatures are often caught by fishermen to obtain this resource. Cat Sìth - Roaming the moors and forests of Scotland, these faery cats are feared by locals because of their magical abilities and love for malicious tricks. They are said to steal the souls of those who pass them, as well as being able to teleport and vanish at will. There are some rumors that they may be witches that can become feline creatures, rather than truly wild animals. Catabolignes - Responsible for tempting and leading humans away from respectable life choices and paths, these Etruscan demons are associated with destruction and physical ruin in their local Italian folklore. Once they have tempted their victims away from potential aid, they will crush and break them with immense supernatural force, killing them instantly. There are, however, some sources which suggest that some magic users can interact with them relatively safely. Catacano - With their faces perpetually locked in grotesque grins, these disgusting undead revenants are mentioned in the Greek mythology of Crete, and will spit a sticky, boiling blood-like substance onto their victims to transform them into more of their kind. They are terrifyingly strong, and can pretend to be human if not seen at close range. The only way to kill one of them is by decapitating it and then boiling the head in vinegar, but the monsters also cannot move through saltwater. Cath Palug - Resembling massive black cats or hounds, these beasts are known to be found in the forests of Wales and France. They are said to be incredibly physically strong and vicious, and are known to have hunted in packs to kill entire armies of humans. Some reports describe them with slightly draconian features, though this is unconfirmed. Catoblepas - These surviving relatives of nigersaurus are found in African areas such as Ethiopia, and will spend most of their days living in swamps and forests where they voraciously consume grass and reeds. As defense, the animals are able to emit a magical charge from the soft tissue around their eyes, which is enough to seriously damage the cells of aggressors, inflicting a cancer-like condition. They are often referred to as mammalian in nature, though this is now known to be a mistake due Cauchemar - Sometimes just called the French equivalent of the incubus, these demons are actually a slightly different species. They resemble vampires in their true form, and will attack and envenomate their victims whilst they are awake. After this happens, the creatures will be able to access the dreams of the victims and kill them within these. Cauchemar - Vampiric French witches, these creatures are thought to be related to the Shtriga, and are known to shapeshift into beautiful human forms in order to enslave and assault sleeping victims that they have judged to be evil. Their victims will wake with leg cramps and drool around their mouths, but potential victims can be protected by leaving salt or dried beans under their pillows, or simply by sleeping on their stomachs. If they are attacked while feeding, the victim will be killed. Cauga - Also known as 'Lau', these semi-aquatic Indian spirits are found in the seas surrounding the Andaman Islands, and are held to be the ghosts of ancient ancestors or other deceased islanders in the local Hindu folklore. They are presumably capable of shapeshifting, because they apparently come ashore to live among the natives and spread supernatural diseases among vulnerable populations. Their name is also used to refer to aquatic ghosts in general. Cave Canem - To be found all across the Roman Empire in ancient times, these quadruped werewolves are now much rarer. In their true form, which they change into when exposed to a surge of adrenaline, they resemble bear-sized wolves with glowing red eyes, though are capable of staying in human form for most of their lives. Like most other lycanthropes, the touch of silver hurts them, and their bite can turn a human into one of them. Ccoa - Appearing as enormous domestic cats with oversized heads and glowing eyes, these malicious South American demons accompany weather deities, and are said to be able to spit blasts of hail and freezing air. They are associated with the freezing and ruination of crops. Offerings are often made to the creatures by the rich and powerful of villages, which means that the monsters target the crops of the poor instead, destroying them with their icy breath. Ceasg - Wild and dangerous, these freshwater merfolk are found in the rivers and estuaries of Scotland, and have the back half of a large salmon. Despite posing a potential danger to unwary fishermen, they must grant three wishes if they are caught. Using their shapeshifting capabilities, they have been known to settle down on land and sometimes marry humans. Cecaelia - Found on the coastlines of North America and Asia, these tentacled people are said to be ancient ancestors of true merfolk. There are Native American folktales about the trickster god known as 'Raven' having a spiteful interaction with one of these creatures, and the beings are still said to be enemies today. In modern times, they are sometimes said to kidnap people from their boats, attempting to understand the surface world but ultimately accidentally drowning their captives. Ceffyl Dŵr - The Welsh counterpart of the Scottish kelpie, these water horses can shapeshift as well as fly, and are sometimes known to lead travelers astray using their glowing eyes. Although this trickery is usually not malicious, there are sometimes reports of them enticing people onto their backs and then flying up into the sky before disappearing and dropping the victims to their deaths. Ceirean - These shapeshifting aquatic monsters are found in the seas that surround Britain and Scotland, and are said to feed on whales. This habit is cited by hunters to explain several unexplained cetacean beaching in recent years. They are also capable of shapeshifting into a smaller, silver fish, and will use this form to allow themselves to be caught by fishermen, which they will then consume. Celedon - Resembling golden harpies, these winged humanoids were forged from inanimate statues by the Greek deity known as Hephaestus, as gifts for the since-lost temple at Delphi. Their beauty is stunning and hypnotic to all those who look at them, and they can produce enchanting songs that have similar effects to those sung by sirens. Cel-Rau - Properly written as 'Cel-r?u', these obscure and terrifying Romanian vampires are virtually unable to be studied because of their extremely advanced senses, which render it impossible to say their species name aloud without the nearest member of the species hearing and targeting the person who said it. Their name literally means 'the bad', and they likely resemble extremely specialised undead creatures with enlarged ears, but this is not certain for obvious reasons. Cenaprugwirion - Related to the extraordinary tuatara, these bizarre Welsh lizards live in burrows and are sometimes seen to emerge out to catch flies using their prehensile tongues as lures. They roll their eyes in their skulls continually to maintain a wide field of vision, and adult individuals of the species usually reach about 30cm in length. Their bodies are usually brownish with orange markings, and their name literally translates as 'daft fly catcher'. Cenobite - Dwelling in monastery-like buildings across Hell, these horrific undead creatures all appear as humanoids wearing black leather garments with various degrees of bizarre body modification. They subject human souls that they capture to intense amounts of pain, continually experimenting to see how much agony and torture a human mind can handle. The first mention of their existence was in modern horror literature. Centaur - Although often thought of as purely benevolent, these hybrid monsters actually have a deadly dual nature, with their human side giving them cunning and knowledge of weaponry, whilst their horse side makes them brutal and unruly. They will often try to negotiate effectively with humans, but are known to regularly fail and accidentally cause deaths. Centycore - Sometimes mistaken for unicorns because of the single antlers that grow from the middle of their foreheads, these sinister creatures are found in the plains of India according to medieval bestiaries, and combine the features of bears, horses and lions. Some sources mention that the creatures have human voices, which could suggest that they have mimicry-based abilities. Centzon Totochtin - Manifesting as eternally-drunk rabbits, these four hundred minor deities are to be found in Mexico and Central America, where they are said to be the innumerable children of the Aztec deities of fertility and agave. Each member of their ranks embodies a different aspect of the experience of intoxication, ranging from blurred vision to excess and lack of impulse control. They often frequent parties, and take part in the drunken revelry over which they rule. Cerastes - These mighty horned serpents are found in the deserts of Europe, and will hide underneath sand dunes to ambush prey. They use their distinctive horns and a leaf-like structure that resembles the food sources of many animals, and will use this to draw them close enough to be pounced on and eaten. The horns can be moved at will by the creature, and mimic worms. Cerberus - Sharing some of its heritage with dragons and monstrous reptiles, this three-headed hound was said to guard the gates of the Underworld in ancient Greek mythology, and to be covered in writhing serpents. It was captured by Heracles and dragged out of the Underworld as one of his labors, but is thought to have later been returned to Hades as a peace offering. Cernunnos - Often called the horned god, this Celtic entity has had the official name of Cernunnos allocated to it in modern times. It can shapeshift into various animalistic forms, though prefers to become a deer or a wolf in order to act as a fierce and dogmatic protector of its woodland homes. It seems to have an unlimited degree of power over the animals, plants and people who live in its domain, and is often worshipped by the people of these areas in a cultish fashion. Cervitaur - Living in small herds in North American forests, these creatures resemble centaurs with deer features in place of those of equine. They sometimes have antlers, though this feature is more common in the males. This species seems to be more civilized and intelligent than their European, equine counterpart. Cet'aeni - Scrambling around in the caves and trees of North America and Alaska, these agile hairy humanoids are described as being monkey-like or perhaps simply resembling lithe humans with tails. They are hostile, and kill humans. Their names literally mean 'tailed ones', and there are not known to have ever been monkeys in Alaska, therefore prompting some researchers to suggest that their descriptions as primates must be mistaken. Therefore, they are sometimes classified as faeries. Chagljevi - Dwelling in the grasslands and forests of Eastern Europe and Slavic territories, these skittish creatures resemble small dogs, and are roughly the size of an average puppy. They are known to creep into human dwellings and steal supplies and food, but are terrified of people and will run away immediately if confronted. Chain Haunting - Although beginning life as nothing more than a common and annoying prank played on gullible children on the internet, these chunks of text are often exchanged through text or email, and promise that if they are not copied and sent to another person a curse shall befall the reader. Of course the circumstances involved in the hauntings described in the chain letters are entirely fictional, but this doesn't stop the imaginary ghosts from coming to life as terrifying tulpas. Chalicotherium - A relict population of prehistoric horse relatives, these creatures are found in Africa and Asia, where they feed on tough vegetation from trees. They are sometimes misidentified with the Nandi bear or the tikbalang. They have not yet been discovered by mainstream science due to their incredibly small numbers and silent movements. Chalkydri - Twelve-winged angels taking on forms similar to serpentine dragons with crocodilian heads, these bizarre heavenly beings are either ranked among the Archangels or between the Cherubim and Seraphim, and are said to represent elements of the sun due to their behaviour of singing loudly upon the rising of the sun. They live in the Fourth Heaven, and are referred to as 'products of the Egyptian imagination', though it is unknown what this means. In Gnostic lore, they are demonic. Champ - This plesiosaur-like monster is found in Lake Champlain of North America, and has been being seen in its waters for centuries. It is described as having a long neck (a claim backed up by photographic evidence), and being 20-30ft long in its entirety. In 2003, sonar recordings akin to those made by dolphins or whales were detected in the lake. Chamrosh - Dwelling in alien realm that is thought to be closely parallel to the Judeo-Christian Heaven, these mighty winged creatures resemble hybrids of wolves and eagles. They are said to be responsible for generating rain and thus life in arid areas, and are known to cause severe storms when they visit Earth. Although they are sometimes erroneously equated with griffins, they are far more intelligent and are closer in behavior to the Garuda. Chaneque - Little demons, these South American monsters dwell deep within rainforests and caves, and will feed on the souls of anyone who enters their territory. These victims must then get their souls back through use of a specific ritual or else they will slowly die of an incurable illness. The creatures resemble children with the faces of old men, and are thought to be the spirits of unbaptized infants. Chang - Those who are killed by tigers are will become these malevolent ghosts according to ancient Chinese tradition. They will devote all their energy to possessing and frightening people in their vicinity in a similar manner to the nogitsune, and are known to lure others into places where they too will be eaten by tigers. Not much is known about them despite their deadly disposition. Changcheng - Acting as benevolent guardians of mountainous areas across China and Asia, these shapeshifting spirits resemble humanoids with feline features and the tails of leopards in their true forms. Very little is known about them, and they are thought to be members of a forgotten group of faeries known as Luomo. Changeling - Kidnapping human children and leaving their carnivorous offspring in their place, these genuinely frightening faeries must feed on human milk in order to survive into adulthood. Some of these individuals will forget that they are not human as they grow up, though others will rejoin their faery families and continue in their vicious ways. Chapalu - Similar to underwater panthers and Mishipeshu, these semi-aquatic French felines are said to have been the monsters responsible for the demise of the legendary King Arthur in the local mythology. The first individual of this species was apparently born when a small black kitten was cursed and then thrown into a large body of water, which prompted its metamorphosis into a monster. They are capable of shapeshifting into dragon-like forms that resemble enormous fish. Char Man - Shambling about in the woods of North America's San Antonio Creek, this hideous ghost resembles a tall and broad humanoid with a skeletal face and skin hanging off its body, and is said to be constantly cloaked in a cloud of flies and to emit a stench so strong that it can cause retching and vomiting in those nearby. Although some assert that it is harmless, there are other stories which involve it prowling campsites after dark or even killing humans to replace its tattered skin. Charlie Charlie - Either identified as a demon or a tulpa, this psychic entity has been being inadvertently summoned by a playground game played across Spain for centuries, in which it is asked simple questions pertaining to romance and social affairs. This is done by constructing a board with two pencils and pen-drawn boxes labelled either 'yes' or 'no', and the spirit moves the pencils to answer simple questions posed to it. However, the being has been known to mislead or possess the players. Charon - Acting as the ferryman of newly deceased souls to and from the Underworld, this skeletal entity was first alluded to in ancient Greek tradition. It is customary to leave a copper coin in the mouth of a corpse in order to pay for the fee that Charon demands, and those who are left without this talisman are said to become wrathful spirits. Charybdis - This terrifying sea monster simply appears as a gaping maw surrounded by a whirlpool of spinning fangs. It is believed that she was once a beautiful nymph until she was cursed by an angry deity, and now she the area of water that she once protected. She is said to have been located opposite to scylla, and to have provided a deadly obstacle for sailors. Chasse-Galerie - Condemned to eternally fly through Hell and appear in the Canadian sky on New Year's Eve every year, this bewitched canoe is said to be piloted by a crew of French traders who wanted to see their loved ones on New Year's Eve, but were working too far away and decided to make a deal with the Devil to gain access to a flying canoe. The only catch was that they could not say God's name or touch a church while flying, and eventually, after they were all inebriated, they failed this. Chatloup - With the body of a lion and the serrated horns of an antelope, these Roman creatures are a truly terrifying sight to behold, and were spoken of in heraldic sources. Their horns are powerful weapons, and are often used to shred thickets of bushes and trees in order to clear a path for the animals. It is suggested that they are related to the more well-known calopus. Che Uinik - Lacking solid bones and moving around with spindly cane-like limbs, these awful hairy humanoids are found in the jungles and plains of South America, where they feed on the flesh and blood of humans that they capture. Their feet are turned backwards to prevent them from being tracked, and they use intricate traps to catch travelers in the deep woods. Like the wendigo, it is thought that they were originally human criminals. Chedipe - Either created when women die unnatural deaths such as through childbirth or suicide, or were prostitutes in life, these undead witches are known from the folklore of the Godavari River region in India, in which they are said to appear at night as nude humanoids riding atop tigers. They will choose a specific household on which to feed, draining the blood of the men in the house from their toes overnight. If the men do not seek medical treatment, they will slowly weaken before dying. Cheeno - Humanoid creatures, these monsters roam the woodlands of North America, where they are often known to capture and butcher humans to eat. They are thought to be related to wendigos, and the similarly-named chenoo, and sell human meat to individuals from both of these species. They can shapeshift into a human form, which allows them to blend in with local societies. Cheeroonear - Grotesque relatives of dogmen found on the plains of the Australian Outback, these loping creatures have disproportionately long arms and pouches on their throats like those of pelicans. Their chests are divided into two compartments, one containing the lungs, and the other containing the heart and veins, with the throat in the middle of these two chambers. They are roughly 8ft tall, and are responsible for the disappearances of many foolhardy human settlers. Chelep - Likened to orangutans due to their hairy humanoid features, these diminutive primate-like faeries are found across Chile and Argentina, where they are known to build stone houses painted in many different colours, from which they throw stones at visiting Patagonians, appearing to be incapable of being caught. Because of this, they have been declared to be dark magic users by local human populations, most of whom now avoid their dwellings for fear of having their livestock mutilated. Chemosit - Feared by African natives because of their ruthless hunting strategy, these bear-like creatures are known to lurk atop trees or houses, and swipe their claws downwards to scalp human passersby. They are covered in thick dark fur, and move using a slow shambling motion when on the ground, though are considerably more agile in the trees. Chemtrail - Although the phenomena that they cause is often blamed on a nondescript government plot, these mischievous faeries are actually creatures that are related to gremlins, and constantly produce clouds of toxic vapour. They are known to hijack innocent planes and use them as vessels to transmit their poisonous secretions into the air. The government is not aware of their existence. Chenoo - Humans who commit crimes such as withholding food from the starving in times of famine can become possessed by these awful Native American spirits. The first symptoms of this possession will be an incredibly low temperature, as the heart of the victim literally becomes frozen. Chepechcalm - Mentioned in the mythology of North American tribes, these monstrous yellow-red serpents have long horns on their heads, and are said to lurk beneath the surfaces of lakes and rivers and consume humans who attempt to pass them. Their horns supposedly have powerful healing properties, and some individuals of the species only have singular horns, garnering them the nickname of 'unicorn serpents'. Cherubim - Originally assigned to protect the legendary Garden of Eden, these strange angels have multiple wings and the heads of oxen, lions and eagles. They now often guard the throne rooms of Heaven, and are sometimes said to be used as mounts or vessels by earthly representatives of God such as saints or prophets. Since the Renaissance period, the creatures have become confused with the putto. Cherufe - Often mistaken for a blazing comet when sighted, this aerial worm is found in the sky around South America. It is generally only seen at night, and can emit a bright red light to attract prey. The local people feared it as a volcano god, and would routinely sacrifice young girls into the volcanoes to 'appease' this blissfully unaware creature. Cheshire Cat - First spoken of in the 1700s, these British faeries resemble large cats with unnaturally wide grins on their faces, and have the ability to disappear, leaving only their smiles floating in the air. They are highly intelligent, and enjoy raising philosophical points to annoy and baffle those around them, as well as playfully frightening people by appearing as a disembodied head. There are some sources that claim the first depiction of these creatures was a 16th century carving. Chesma İyasi - Shapeshifting feminine water spirits, these Turkish faeries usually take on the forms of cats, but are also known to often morph into merfolk or beautiful human women, but in this form the hems of their clothes are always dripping wet. Each member of the species inhabits different wells or springs, and are known to use their shapeshifting abilities to entice young people to enter bodies of water where they will drown. There is a subspecies called Kuyu İyesi, protecting wells. Čhetáŋ - Associated with incredible speed and powerful vision, these North American winged shapeshifters are dedicated characters in their human forms, but ruthless hunters in their avian shape. They are usually found in the East of the country, and represent the East winds in the local mythology. Cheval Mallet - Appearing as glowing white horses with saddles and ornate bridles, these beautiful French creatures tempt travelers that have become tired and exhausted after long journeys. If these victims choose to ride the horse without a blessing from a saint, they will never return. Chevaliers de l'Enfer - Held to be more powerful than regular demons but less powerful than those given ranks in the government of Hell, such as Dukes and Marquises, these French demonic warriors are also known as the 'Knights of Hell'. They can be invoked to carry out the will of dark magic users from dawn to sunrise, and from sunset to dark. Very little else is known about them, and some researchers now mistakenly take the Judaeo-Christian Cain to be one of them due to popular culture. Chhattisgarh Spaceman - Descending from the skies in mighty, disk-shaped crafts, these alien ultraterrestrials are depicted in ancient Indian cave paintings dating from 10,000 years old. They are depicted as having long faces and large eyes, as well as sometimes wearing space suits and abducting human victims. Some of the modern-day natives of the area worship the paintings out of fear that the beings will one day return. Chicago Phantom - Seen by multiple terrified witnesses in their namesake North American district, these massive winged creatures resemble bats or flying shadows, and are sometimes thought to be affiliated with other supernatural beings such as the lechuza. They are described as using a gliding flight to move at unnatural speeds, and were first witnessed in 2011. Chicheface - Capable of sensing psychological weakness in their human prey, these French bogeymen resemble emaciated werewolves or hyenas. They hunt only those who are majorly vulnerable in some way, leading to misogynistic mythology stating that they only attack submissive women. It seems that they have been known to walk alongside the bigorne, and pick off the terrified victims which it leaves behind. Chichipischekwan - Also known as 'Rolling Heads', these bizarre undead creatures are mentioned in the folklore of Native American tribes in Midwestern North America, and resemble disembodied heads which roll around on the ground in search of humans to kill and devour. Victims of particularly gruesome or violent murders (as well as other crimes which violate taboos such as cannibalism) will reanimate as Rolling Heads, and must then be destroyed by drowning before they move onto killing random humans after avenging their own deaths. Chickcharney - Large flightless owls, these predatory creatures are found in the forests and marshes of the Bahamas, and have long arms and vicious claws concealed beneath their wings. If a traveler treats one of these creatures well, then they will have good fortune. If they do not, then they will be cursed with bad luck. Chicken Man - So named because of their love for raiding chicken coops after dark, these strange hairy humanoids are held responsible for a series of bizarre attacks taking place in 1970s North America. These raids started after a local homeowner stopped feeding a simian creature that would show up outside his house. It is thought that this animal and the chicken man were the same species. Chimera - Originally from Greece, these creatures now exist in small numbers all over the globe, and are capable of assimilating species that they come into contact with into their body. They can produce deadly poison as well as bursts of fire, and can fly using powerful dragon wings. If threatened, they are able to mix other animals around them into hybrid body guards. Chindi - Emitted from the body of a dying person through their last breath, these terrifying Native American ghosts represent the residual sins and bad energy of the deceased. They usually manifest as dust devils or other natural phenomena, and close contact with one of them can cause illness and even death in a human, because of an effect called 'ghost sickness'. Native Americans will destroy the belongings of a deceased person, and Endeavour to never speak their name to protect against chindi. Chinthe - Sculpted to resemble ornately-clothed lions or leopards, these loyal Asian constructs are often placed at the entrances of temples or cities, and function as tenacious guards to these areas. It is said that they were originally constructed to honor a lion that a hunter had unfairly killed, and to alleviate some of the regret that he felt from this act. Their appearance is obviously very similar to other creatures such as the foo dogs. Chione - Thought to have originally been born from the tortured souls of young assault victims, these ancient Greek nymphs are responsible for the production of snow and cold weather. They are well-known for producing blizzards and snowstorms in bizarre and unnatural locations, such as over oceans or in deserts. Some cultures regard them as minor deities. Chipfalamfula - An enormous whale-like creature, this beast is known from the inland waterways of Mozambique, and is said to have total control over the water and weather conditions around it. It can provide droughts and floods as it pleases, and is so large that it has a flourishing ecosystem inside its belly. There are people and animals inside this area, and they all apparently live in harmony with each other. Chirizuka Kaiō - Dwelling in cluttered households, these red and hairy demons manifest in areas where there are large numbers of tsukumogami present, and appear to have a degree of control over the animated objects. They can create tsukumogami by simply touching objects, and are known to attack and stalk those who could not bring themselves to throw away the now-living objects. Chitapo - Devilish African merfolk, these disgusting creatures lurk in dark and filthy sources of water, and leave abandoned household items floating on the surfaces of their pools. When unwary humans go to the water to retrieve the misplaced goods, the creature will literally consume their shadow and soul, leaving them as nothing but a faded husk of their former self. Chivato - Mutated from young children who were kidnapped by dark magic users and cursed to feed on human flesh, these Chilean monsters resemble burly humanoids covered in horny growths. They live in tunnels that run underneath the whole of the country, and access the surface through small bodies of water such as lakes. Young children will be captured and dragged backwards into the water, where they will be eaten. Chōchin-Obake - Formed from Japanese paper lanterns that have existed for a long time and thus gained a soul of their own, these creatures will have mouths formed from a split in their paper coating. They have a single, large eye and a serpentine tongue. Despite their frightening appearance, they are mostly harmless to humans, and will instead choose to just scare their victims. Choker - Clambering around cities and high-rise buildings, these devilish primates are actually descended from an aquatic ancestor, which can be seen in their rubbery skin and suckered fingers. The first mention of their existence was in modern fantasy literature. They use their incredibly long arms and dexterous feet to strangle humans and other animals that pass by below them. In recent times, they have become fond of collecting shiny objects that could be used to lure human victims into traps. Chōkeshin - When someone dies of an illness, they have a chance of resurrecting as one of these foul Japanese ghosts that resemble butterflies. They fly around in large groups at night, and any humans that they touch will eventually become sick and die of the same disease that killed the original victim. It is through this cycle that the creatures reproduce. Chol - Famous for their long and seemingly endless lives, these uncommon birds are sometimes seen as masses of sand, though resemble phoenixes in their true forms. They are only scantly mentioned in Judaeo-Christian Biblical literature, and some scholars have argued against their inclusion at all. Much like other phoenixes, these elemental birds can regenerate their bodies by submerging themselves in sand. Chonchon - These creatures are powerful magic users that are able to detach their heads from their bodies at night, and change their ears into massive wings. They are known from South America and the surrounding areas, where they feed on the blood of sleeping victims. Chordeva - Mentioned in the folklore of the Oraon hill tribe of India's Bengal, these shapeshifting dark magic users are capable of changing their souls into the forms of cats so that they can send them out to prey on the elderly and sick by stealing or poisoning their food. They can also shapeshift into humanoid cat-like vampires, capable of mesmerising people through eye-contact. Anything that can kill a normal cat can kill their feline forms, but their therianthropic forms are indestructible. Chordewa - Detailed in the Oraon folklore of Bengal, these Indian dark magic users have the ability to separate their souls from their bodies in the forms of black cats in order to enter the houses of sick or dying people, where they will eat all of their food and lick their lips, causing them to die shortly after. It is very difficult to capture one of the cats, but once they are caught the witches will go into a coma, and all the harm done to the cats will appear on the witches. Choromanda - Described in the writings of ancient Greek explorers, these savage hairy humanoids live in communities resembling primitive human tribes or settlements. They are covered in coarse hair and have large, red eyes, as well as ferocious fangs similar to those of dogs or other large predators. Human intruders on their territory are often killed and eaten. Choromandae - Similar to humanoid lemurs, these Indian creatures were discovered by Pliny the Elder, who found their primitive settlements and villages dotted around the country. They have pronounced snouts and dexterous tails with which they can swing from trees, and communicate between each other in an indiscernible language. Chort - This abominable, bovine beast is known from Slavic mythology, and is thought to originate from Hell itself. It acts as both an incredibly strong physical threat, as well as a shapeshifting trickster, and can only be killed by using iron to penetrate its massively strong hide. Christkind - Distinguishable by their noticeable halos and physical wings, these odd little angels resemble small human children with blond hair, and often wear religious garments. They are in charge of managing religious festivals such as Christmas, and are known to give some of the gifts to children at Christmastime. It is said by German folklore that they dislike being seen, much like brownies or other faeries. Chrysaor - Originally the child of Medusa, this strange humanoid has the ability to shapeshift into a form that resembles a winged boar. Its name denotes the idea of a 'golden sword', which is probably a reference to their unbreakable and fearsome tusks or their claws. Strangely, it is mentioned in Greek mythology that they are closely related to Pegasus. Chubays - Resembling humanoid rats, these Russian house faeries live in the dwellings of dark magic users and wicked sorcerers. They will extinguish fires that are lit, causing biting chills in the house, and will demand a ransom of grain and livestock. They do this not because they want to eat, but rather because they feed on the misfortune and misery that it creates in the surrounding human population. Chuhaister - Ukrainian tutelary entities, these giant faeries are very similar the Leshy but are entirely benevolent unlike the Russian entities, and are said to be cheerful creatures that enjoy singing and dancing. They typically take on the forms of enormous humanoid males either dressed in white clothing or entirely naked, but have also been known to shapeshift into one-legged humanoids or gusts of wind. Like other tutelary faeries, they will protect their habitat and are respected by locals. Chullachaki - Short and ugly, these shapeshifting faeries guard the fauna and flora of jungles and forests across South America, and will attack those who break cultural taboos or abuse the forest's resources. They have been known to transform into a potential victim's loved ones or hunting target, and lure them into the forest. Sometimes, the creatures challenge hunters to a fight, and those who refuse will be cursed with bad luck. Chūnari Hannya - Human females that are half-transformed into demonic creatures due to jealousy or other corrupting influences on their souls, these Japanese hybrid beings have long, sharp horns and tusk-like fangs, as well as the ability to use magic to summon more powerful malevolent beings like ikiryō to attack their enemies. Although they are too far into their transformations to be successfully returned to a human state, they can be repelled by use of Buddhist prayers. Chupacabra - This small, shapeshifting creature has become legendary in both North America and Puerto Rico, where it feeds on livestock by swiftly draining them of all their blood overnight. It has a kangaroo-like gait, as well as retractable spines on its back. There are reports of it being able to alter the color of its body, as well as emitting a strong, acid-battery smell. Due to its shapeshifting nature, reports of its appearance are never exactly the same. Chupa-Cu - With a name literally translating to 'Suck-Ass', it's no wonder that this monster originally started life as a joke, before coming to life as a mildly irritating tulpa. A video depicting its likeness was created by a film producer, and this video was then copied onto another website with all indication that it was fake removed. This ultimately led to the alien-like creature coming to life, and attacking people in the manner that its name suggests. Chupeitoro - Also known as 'Lobo-Toro' in the Mapuche folklore of Argentina, these monstrous Patagonian hybrid beasts resemble combinations of wolf-like and bovine features, having the bulky physiologies and herbivorous diets of bulls but the aggression and terrifying howls of wolves. There are local legends detailing how the massive creatures would use their notoriously-sharp spear-like horns to kill predatory animals such as lions and tigers. They are sometimes confused with the Elengassen. Church Grim - Despite resembling hellhounds, these entities are actually benevolent, and will protect a chosen church from all those that they view as evil or corrupt. They are said to be the spirits of animals that have been sacrificed by early Christians when they built said churches. Ciakar - Capable of seeing into the future and calculating all possible outcomes for specific situations, these incredibly intelligent reptilian aliens have been recorded in worldwide cultures for centuries. They are well-known for their powerful use of cybernetic technology, and also for the massive feathery wings that sprout from their backs. It is speculated that they may be behind some sightings of dragons because of their massive bodies and monstrous shape. Cigau - Resembling a golden-colored big cat, this beast is found in the grasslands and jungles of Indonesia. It is a highly aggressive carnivore, and is known to have attacked and killed several human victims. A nocturnal hunter, the creature will drag human prey away from their encampments and villages, and then brutally disembowel them. Cigouave - Beastly spirits resembling enormous lions with the heads of humans, these manticore-like demons are sometimes summoned by evil users of Haitian Voodoo to exact revenge on those that they feel have wronged them, often sending them to tenaciously chase down their victims. The creatures will only cease their relentless pursuit of their targets if the person who originally gave them the order stands down, or else all those targeted will surely die. Ciguapa - Seducing male victims and leading them deep into the jungles of the Caribbean, these succubus-like faeries have striking blue skin and glowing eyes, as well as strange backwards-facing feet. They will make love to their victims in the forest, but will then promptly murder them and feed on their flesh afterwards. If a human stares into their eyes for long enough, they will be bewitched and controlled by the monster. Cilophyte - Closely related to the cecaelia, these tentacled merfolk are highly temperamental and proud, though will prevent humans from drowning and shipwrecks. They were first reported in the Atlantic during 1872, and are known to become vengeful if a member of their species is killed. Cindaku - Usually remaining in human form (only distinguishable from regular humans by their lack of a philtrum) and living in small houses in the Sumatran jungle, these shapeshifters resemble humanoid tigers in their true forms. During certain times of the year, they will be taken over by an urge to hunt and kill, and will venture towards local villages where they will beg to be allowed to stay. If the villagers are not wary, the monsters will transform into tigers at night and kill them all. Cinler Cin - Also simply known as 'Cin', these Turkish Djinn normally choose to remain completely invisible, and are known to act akin to air elementals, as well as to generate and feed off insanity in human victims. Like other Djinn, they are capable of possessing human victims, but are said to do this by establishing sexual contact with intended victims and taking control of them over an extended period of time. There are also related creatures known as 'Cinni', which are gnome-like faeries. Cipactli - Originally known only from Aztec folklore, this supernatural creature is an embodiment of hunger and starvation, and has the ability to drive others mad with famine. It appears as a crocodilian with gaping mouths all over its body, and glowing yellow eyes. Cipelahq - Referred to as bogeymen in the culture of some North American tribes, these monstrously large owls emit frightful calls that produce feelings of fear and panic in their victims. Their name literally translates as 'scary eyes', and are known to carry off small children to an undiscovered location at incredibly high altitude. Citipati - Considered to be protector deities in Tibetan Buddhism and the Vajrayāna branch of that same religion present in India, these wrathful entities usually appear as a pair of skeletons dancing wildly while surrounded by a halo, representing the eternal dance of death and perfect awareness. They are said to have originally been two monks who were deep in meditation in a graveyard when they were beheaded by a thief, leading their deified ghosts to declare war on all thieves and criminals. Civatateo - Stalking travelers and haunting abandoned locations, these savage Aztec vampires are known to be the reanimated corpses of noblewomen and priestesses who died during childbirth. Their skin is pale, and their tattered clothing is decorated with the bones of their victims. They attack small children and give them a deadly withering disease. Cizin - Causing earthquakes and other destructive natural disasters, these skeletal Mayan deities rule over the Underworld and preside over practices of human sacrifice. They usually appear as ogre-sized skeletons wearing necklaces fashioned from dangling human eyeballs and holding burning cigarettes. Strangely, they appear to have become confused with the concept of Satan. Cliff Ogre - There is some debate as to if these North American ogres should be classified as a new species based solely on their behavior of kicking people over cliffs. Their offspring amass in large nests at the bases of these rocky outcrops. When potential human victims pass them, the adults will send them plummeting downwards, allowing them to be eaten by their children. Clone - Created using scientific methods illegal at the time of writing, these beings are genetically identical copies of a pre-existing human, but are without free will or the ability to show emotions. As a result of this, they are often used as bodyguards or soldiers for shadowy government organizations. At the moment, they have short life expectancies, though this may change with future development. Clurichaun - Always drunk, these leprechaun-like faeries are found in the wine cellars and breweries of Ireland, where they will drink all through the night. If they are treated well, they will protect the alcohol and the prosperity of the brewery, but if they are neglected they can cause wine to go bad. Clutchbone - Stalking the forests and isolated villages of Britain and North America, these savage creatures resemble humanoids fashioned from meshed metal, with flaming torches or candles on their heads. They are incredibly violent and savage towards humans, which they will attack on sight, often leaving their remains completely incinerated. Some researchers have suggested that they may have some relation to extreme weather conditions, as they often manifest after sightings of ball lightning. Ćmok - Taking on the forms of small dragons or serpentine creatures, these Slavic spirits dwell in secluded and neglected areas in houses across Poland and Belarus, and will bring great wealth to those that live inside their chosen abodes. However, they are sometimes regarded as demonic, and if they are killed then the entire family that lives inside the house will also die. They seem to live in a hierarchical society, all answering to a specific individual referred to as a 'general'. Ćmok - Taking on the forms of small dragons or serpentine creatures, these Slavic spirits dwell in secluded and neglected areas in houses across Poland and Belarus, and will bring great wealth to those that live inside their chosen abodes. However, they are sometimes regarded as demonic, and if they are killed then the entire family that lives inside the house will also die. They seem to live in a hierarchical society, all answering to a specific individual referred to as a 'general'. Ćmuch - Faintly resembling shadowy frog-like humanoids with rounded ears, these Polish demons are inhabit bodies of water such as reservoirs or swamps, and usually prefer to remain invisible. Their presence is normally only betrayed by sudden gusts of wind or splashing noises from invisible sources. They are known to be very lazy and slothly, and are said to only haunt humans with these same characteristics. Cobalopithecus - Similar to the duende and orang-pendek, these small and hairy primates are found in the grasslands and forests around Argentina and other South American areas, where they are well known for frightening local children. The most recent sighting was during February 2017, when a member of this species ran towards a group of children playing football, feigning an attack as a territorial gesture. Coblynau - Constantly working but never finishing, these Welsh mining faeries are similar in appearance to dwarves and gnomes, dressed in miniature versions of human mining outfits. They are said to be very ugly, and to be able to cause violent rockslides if angered. Cockatrice - Found mostly in Britain and Ireland, these draconic monsters resemble a hybrid of a serpent and a rooster. They have the terrifying ability to kill anything on which they breathe, and paralyze people with their gaze. They can only be killed by using a mirror to reflect their own gaze back at them. Côco - Terrifying Portuguese faeries, these lanky creatures act as bogeymen, and lurk atop roofs and in shadowy corners in order to silently observe the behavior of children around them. If they are alerted to a misbehaving child, they will stalk the infant relentlessly and eventually consume them, leaving no trace at all. They are often the cause of sudden and inexplicable disappearances of children. Cocodrille - Much more reptilian than their cockatrice relatives, these avian dragons are born from a chicken egg that has been incubated by horse manure. They will start life as a long serpent, and then eventually develop wings and legs and take up residence in either graveyards or old houses. They will whistle ominously overnight, and bring bad luck to all those that hear them, as well as instantly killing any creatures who look them in the eye. Coeurl - First discovered in fantasy literature written in 1939, these predatory alien beings resemble Earthly panthers due to convergent evolution, and are thought to be the ancestors of the more famous Displacer Beasts due to their similar anatomy, seeing as they share the feline body shape with powerful tendrils on their shoulders. Despite their monstrous form, they are highly intelligent and can manipulate electric vibrations in the air to communicate. They feed on phosphorus and potassium, draining it from their victims' bones. Cofgod - Found mostly in Europe and Britain, these shapeshifting beings are thought to represent a missing link between household gods and faeries. They preside mostly over only one household, and are worshiped as helpers in these buildings, and are given gifts in return for their services to the human residents. Cofgod - Found mostly in Europe and Britain, these shapeshifting beings are thought to represent a missing link between household gods and faeries. They preside mostly over only one household, and are worshiped as helpers in these buildings, and are given gifts in return for their services to the human residents. Colchian Dragon - Also known as Kholkikos, this watchful serpent was regarded as keeping guard over the legendary Golden Fleece in ancient Greek mythology, and was slain by Jason during his quest to retrieve the fleece. After it was killed, its teeth were harvested and sown into the ground, whereupon they created the warlike Spartoi. This magical property of dragons' teeth is also observed in the story of the Ismenian Dragon, which were said to produce a similar crop of warriors. Colel Cab - Either classified as deities or faeries, these strange South American beings were often depicted on the gates and walls of cities that were famous for producing large quantities of honey. They resemble humanoid entities with insect-like features, often resembling bees, and have a preternatural connection to the earth and ground around them. Colo-Colo - Found in Chile and the neighboring territories, these monstrous rodents are born from the egg of a snake, and will then haunt a house and cause the inhabitants to fall ill. They can be repelled using a traditional Christian exorcism rite. Colôrobètch - Capable of producing extreme cold in their vicinity, these Belgian creatures resemble grotesque hybrids of humans and birds, with beaks stained red with blood. They are known to attack young children who venture into the freezing Winter terrain, nipping at their fingers and faces until they become cracked and bloody. There are some stories of the creatures drowning victims in frigid rivers and lakes. Colour Out of Space - First arriving on Earth in a meteorite that fell next to a decrepit well in North America, these bizarre alien entities were documented by HP Lovecraft, and have the innate ability to drain the life out of all living beings around them. Affected organisms will develop bizarre mutations, such as unnatural jumping abilities in mammals and the strange property of swaying when no wind is present in trees, but will eventually become grey in colour before literally turning to dust. Once the Colour leaves, non-biological matter that was exposed to it will glow in all colours of the visible light spectrum. Coloxus - Formed from mortal souls that caused disasters and tragedies because of their vanity and shameless self-absorption, these fly-like demons act as servants of Beelzebub, and were first mentioned in fantasy literature. Despite their hideous appearance, they are dignified and polite in mannerism, and consider themselves to be elite members of society. It is for this reason that they are often used as diplomats or negotiators by more powerful demons. Colt Pixie - Once common in Dorset and the New Forest, these shapeshifting tricksterish faeries assume the forms of pale horses with ragged and scruffy manes, and are known to use their magical abilities to lure travelers and livestock away into the forests, much like a will-o-the-wisp. They are sometimes said to be terrestrial Kelpie variants because of their similar behaviour and appearance, but are thought extinct nowadays, as the last cultural references to them were in the 20th century. Columbia River Sand Squink - Found in their namesake Washington locale, these elusive North American critters are said to resemble coyotes with long ears like those of jackrabbits and bushy, squirrel-like tails, and are considered to be nocturnal, emerging from their dens to hunt electric eels on riverbanks. They are timid when hungry, but when they have eaten their fill they will walk in front of prospectors and travelers, waving their tails between their ears and generating electric currents. Condenado - Appearing as monstrous ogres at first glance, these undead Peruvian creatures are named after the literal translation for the term 'condemned soul', and are often the souls of malevolent or wronged humans that return as vengeful monsters. They seem to remember very little about their past lives, and will be savage and brutish, attacking all those that they meet. There are local South American stories about victims of manslaughter and jilted lovers resurrecting as these monsters. Condenado - Haunting abandoned locations across Peru and South America, these terrifying ghosts are formed from those who committed suicide or were assassinated. They take on the form of monstrous owls, and will attack shepherds and travelers at dusk, literally scaring them to death using psychic abilities. However, they will disappear if they eat three humans for unknown reasons. Coney Island Man-Bat - Resembling winged humanoids with legs akin to those of frogs, these bizarre creatures were first recorded when an individual of the species was witnessed over their namesake North American locale in 1880. As they fly, they beat their paddle-shaped hind-limbs in unison, in much the same way that a frog swims through water. Contemporary newspapers ran speculation that they may actually be criminals that had invented flying machines. Conferentes - Assuming the forms of ancient Pagan deities to trick humans into worshipping them, these manipulative demons are known from the literature produced by a medieval Judaeo-Christian apologist called Arnobius, who initially came from the Numidia region of North Africa. Their presence was used as justification for the ridicule of Pagan faiths, and they are unsurprisingly linked with idolatrous worship. Another researcher by the name of Leloyes suggested that they are related to incubi. Congcong - Named for their distinctive cries, these strange and terrifying predators are found in mountainous regions across China, and resemble dogs with six feet. Despite their imposing appearance, very little is known about their behavior or evolutionary heritage. Conoel - Exclusively female, these savage Irish werewolves are mostly benevolent despite their vicious behavior and frightening appearances, and are known to protect children and families in their local areas. Despite this, they are still subject to the predatory urges of other canids, and are known to sometimes raid farms overnight and kill livestock. Con-Rit - Although often mistakenly described as a sea centipede, this massive crustacean is more closely related to prawns. It is found in the seas surrounding Vietnam, and often causes incredibly strange sea monster reports when it is seen above its deep-sea habitat. Con-Rit - First seen by humans in 1833, these enormous crustaceans are related to prawns, and live in the ocean around Southern Vietnam. They have segmented bodies with multiple mobile fins with which they paddle through deep sects of water. There was previously speculation that they represented a group of armored whales, though this has been proven to be incorrect. Coonigator - Dwelling in and around the North American state of Vermont, these bizarre hybrid beasts are likely a recently-evolved species, and resemble mammalian creatures with rounded bodies and thick coats of grey fur, along with broad jaws much like those of alligators. They are mostly nocturnal, and are known to scavenge and forage among bins and piles of litter in nighttime feeding frenzies. Despite their frightening appearance, there have been no human victims of coonigator attacks. Copenhagen Devil - Predating a group of three intrepid monster hunters in its namesake New York locale on May 25th of 1900, this horned beast was originally described as a 'large white object' before the hunters disturbed its sleep and led the North American creature to leap up and move quickly away, giving one of the witnesses an electric shock. The same group later tracked down the entity again, describing it has having a tail as thick as a man's torso, possibly related to the Sheepsquatch. Copiapó Flyer - Bizarre dragons unique to certain areas of Chile and South America, these monstrous creatures resemble enormous birds with brownish feathers and heads resembling those of lobsters or locusts at first glance. Their bodies are long and serpentine, and are covered in a thin covering of hair and hard metallic scales, which make frightening grating noises when the creatures move. An individual of this species was first seen by a group of terrified miners in 1868. Coranied - These terrifying supernatural conquerors are spoken of in the ancient mythology of Britain as having enslaved many historical societies using their superior magical knowledge. They were capable of transforming leaves into gold and learn the secrets of their enemies through the wind, but were eventually defeated when a desperate magic user created a potion of insects, that would harm the Coranied, but remain harmless to humans. Cordyceps - Found in jungles and tropical rainforests throughout the entire world, but most common in Asian countries, this horrific parasitic fungus attacks a host by spreading its mycelium throughout the hosts' tissue, gradually replacing it and taking control of the brain in order to propagate more effectively. This will cause the host to become aggressive and zombie-like in behaviour, leading to it attacking other humans and spreading the fungal spores through bites or scratches. Cornfield Demon - Not actually demonic in origin, these faeries are usually found in the dark fields of Pennsylvania, and frighten passersby using their glowing red eyes that emit a supernatural aura of panic. They will become enraged if a human maintains eye contact with them, and so it is wise to avert one's gaze to prevent attack. Corpo Seco - Rejected by both Heaven and Hell because of the sheer evilness of their souls, these Brazilian undead resemble emaciated corpses, and have the ability to cause severe rot and decay in anything they touch. Their name literally means 'dry corpse'. They are cursed to walk the Earth until the Judaeo-Christian Apocalypse, bringing death and destruction wherever they go. Cosmic Joker - Believed to be incredibly ancient and overwhelmingly powerful, this supernatural prankster is akin to the more common tricksters, and is regarded as a deity of sorts. It is named after a term coined in the writings of the famous researcher Charles Fort. Some modern researchers have also suggested that this entity is responsible for the sudden appearances and disappearances of people through spontaneous teleportation, as well as the blurring effect on most paranormal photographs. Couril - Related to gnomes and other dwarfish faeries, these ugly little humanoids are found in Brittany, especially around ruined buildings such as those on the French beaches of Tresmalouen. Like other faeries, they have a love of dancing, and will sometimes compel humans to join them, with men being danced to death and women becoming pregnant with children resembling caricatures of someone they know. They appear as tiny humanoids with webbed feet and malignant dispositions. Coyote Man - Roughly 7ft tall when standing on their hind legs, these peculiar North American canines resemble large coyotes with vaguely humanoid characteristics, and yellow eye-shine. They have been sighted a limited number of times, which suggests that the creatures are rare because of their comparatively feeble physique compared to other dogmen. Crawfordsville Monster - With a single large eye and powerful jaws, these aerial ambush predators are usually found in the stratosphere, though one became stranded in Indiana in 1891 and caused widespread panic. It moves using an undulating motion, propelled by clawed flippers. Crazy Bear - Featuring in the folklore of the Native Americans, these alien hairy humanoids were apparently left on Earth by an ultraterrestrial civilization that traveled in 'small moons'. The creatures lived in earthly caves in small groups, and only appeared to be aggressive if unnecessarily disturbed. It is unknown where the creatures are nowadays. Crinoida Dajeeana - Also simply known as the 'Madagascar Tree', these grotesque carnivorous trees have nigh-impenetrable 8ft-high trunks resembling pineapples, topped with writhing tendrils and eight bladed leaves that normally hang low to the ground, and which surround a small receptacle filled with intoxicating liquid. Humans are sacrificed to the trees by cannibal tribes, being forced to drink the liquid before the leaves and tendrils ensnare them and squeeze out the blood from their bodies. Criosphinx - Depicted in Ancient Egyptian artwork but only given an official name in Greek bestiaries, these ram-headed sphinxes are poorly understood by modern researchers due to the lack of information available about them, but are thought to be the least predatory variety of sphinx due to the herbivorous nature of the animals with which they share their heads. Like other sphinxes, they are assumed to have a fondness for riddles, but some modern fantasy writers have claimed they prefer riches. Crocodingo - Supposedly first seen in 1839 Tennessee, these hairy beasts appeared to hail from a UFO that resembled a glowing bolt of lightning. They feed on fish and are responsible for historical dips in the fish population of the area, and are also known to stalk the local sewers. The most recent sighting of one of the creatures was in 2012, when it was seen emerging from an uncovered manhole. Crocosphinx - Mentioned in modern fantasy literature and roleplaying games, these strange creatures resemble classic sphinxes with the bodies of lions and wings of eagles, but also have the reptilian heads of crocodiles, and prefer to swim rather than fly. Like all sphinxes, they enjoy challenging intruders into their territory with riddles, ensuring that they spend time answering them with the threat of killing them if they get the answer wrong. They are sometimes known to pretend to cry to tempt travelers into approaching them. Crocotta - Resembling hyenas, these ghoulish African monsters are capable of mimicking human voices to attract victims into the forest, as well as calling out like a vulnerable child to attract dogs and other smaller predators. If a victim stares into the eyes of one of these monsters for too long, they will be paralysed and struck dumb. When food is scarce, the monsters dig up graves. Crodère - Found in close-knit communities in Alpine European regions, these giant humanoids are thought to be ice elementals, and devoutly follow an obscure deity named Tanna. The males of their species are enormous and barrel-chested, whereas the females are more lithe and intelligent. Under the orders of Tanna, they are said to ransack and invade human villages that they come across. Crone - Hideous creatures, these beings are formed when someone remains in prolonged contact with dark magic and witchcraft. They are responsible for the genesis of the classic idea of a witch, with their pointed noses and wrinkled faces. They are classified as monsters because they cannot assume human form to blend in with society, and enjoy killing and feeding on the flesh of local livestock. Cropsey - Variously said to be an escaped mental health patient or a camp counselor driven mad by an injury inflicted upon him during a prank gone wrong, this terrifying phantom attacker stalks New York in North America. It usually uses an axe as its main weapon, though has sometimes been said to have a bladed hook in place of one of its hands. A real human criminal has been apprehended for copying the behavior of this mysterious being. Crossroads Demon - These demons will lurk around crossroads or other areas of branching paths, and will use their manipulative abilities to make deals with people in exchange for their souls. They are able to grant wishes, but there will always be a dire consequence for the recipient. Like most demons, these creatures are unable to enter consecrated ground or touch iron and salt. Croucher - Responsible for the genesis of ancient traditions such as carrying a newly-wedded woman over the threshold of a house and taking off one's shoes before entering a new household, these Mesopotamian demons lurk by doorways and entrances in the Middle East. Shutting doors may keep crouchers out, but it may also trap them in, which is why Jewish lore suggests leaving a small hole in the door so that the demons may be banished. They can be repelled by expressions of positive emotion. Crowd Demons - Very little is known about these rare beings, save for their enjoyment of being concealed in large groups of people. They take on heavily distorted forms that show up on cameras and videos, though not to the naked eye. Theories range from a demonic attraction to a bystander in the crowd or to the photographer, to ghosts that are desperate to get noticed. Crup - Resembling Jack Russel terriers with forked tails, these dogs have been bred by magic users to act as pets, and are incredibly loyal towards wizards and warlocks whilst being hostile towards ordinary humans. They eat almost anything, and small populations of the animals have been reported to live in the wilds of England. Crying Boy - Depicting the crying faces of Italian children who all later died in a deadly orphanage blaze, these paintings and all prints made of them carry a lethal curse that produces destructive fires in any houses in which they are displayed. These fires usually burn the houses to the ground and kill the occupants, but leave the paintings themselves unscathed. There are some rumors that the artist that originally produced them may have sold his soul to a demon. Crypto-Platypus - Occurring in North America and Canada, these strange creatures resemble stocky hybrids of a beaver and a platypus, though sometimes up to 6ft in length. They can be found in both saltwater and freshwater, and have been witnessed by experienced fishermen and mountain hikers alike. Crystal Skull - First discovered by modern humans in the 19th century, these powerful alien beings have bodies that resemble human skeletons fashioned out of quartz. The remains of deceased individuals of this species were often collected by ancient Native American or Mexican cultures, and used as holy relics. When some of these artifacts were rediscovered, claims that contact with them could produce visions and psychic phenomena were widespread in the media. Cthulhi - Also known as the 'Star-Spawn', these grotesque beings are mentioned in the literature of HP Lovecraft, and are known to resemble Cthulhu but to be much smaller in size than the aforementioned deity. They are thought to be the pre-human offspring of said god, and they are said to have come to Earth in ancient times to wage war against the Elder Things, eventually leading to a period of peace in which the Cthulhi built cities on Earth, including R'lyeh which later sunk into the ocean. Cthulhu - This monstrous deity is thought to be a manifestation of chaos itself, and represents a hybrid of a human, octopus and dragon in appearance. It is capable of controlling the minds of humans, and a large cult has formed around it because of this. It is said in the works of HP Lovecraft that looking upon the being's true form will drive the viewer insane. Cu Bird - Documented in the folk tales of Mexico, these avian creatures are born with skeletal and hideous bodies, but will parasitize other birds to gain plumage. They are very intelligent, and can easily trick humans into doing their bidding or accidentally killing themselves. Cù Bòcan - Another monstrous hellhound, this spectral black dog is supposed to have haunted the small Scottish village of Tomatin for centuries. It seems to be able to gain access to locked houses overnight, and savage the occupants leaving no trace that it was ever there, other than bloodied corpses. As with most demonic creatures, it can be hurt using iron weapons, and hunters are making a large effort to track it down. Cú Chulainn - Named after the first member of their race, these Irish demigods are incarnations of the ancient deity known as Lugh, and usually start showing their extreme strength and hardiness in early childhood. They are often regarded as heroes or famous warriors in their local communities, and are known to enter a terrifying state known as ríastrad, in which they morph into grotesque monsters and attack friend and foe. Cuban Sonic Menace - Seemingly targeting North American diplomats in a series of bizarre attacks throughout late 2017 and early 2018 in Cuba and China, this strange phantom attacker is capable of emitting bursts of high-frequency sonic waves, causing brain damage and hearing loss in those close to it. Political tensions skyrocketed after the attacks, with the US government blaming Cuba for the attacks, but after no real sonic weapon was found other explanations had to be considered. Cuca Fera - Most closely resembling the Tarasque, these enormous Spanish creatures are usually described as armored beasts with six legs and faces like those of crocodiles. Their image is often used to represent religious heresy or idolatry in traditional festivals, and they are sometimes equated with boogeyman figures in the area. Not much is known about their evolutionary heritage or distribution. Cuchivilu - Resembling a hybrid of a pig and a snake or salamander, these creatures are rarely found in South American waterways, where they raid fish farms and destroy nets. They mostly live in lakes and rivers, and carry a wide variety of diseases with which they can infect those who come into contact with them. Cuegle - Snatching children from their beds and eating passersby, these monstrous Spanish faeries have three eyes and arms without fingers, as well as stubby horns on their foreheads. Strangely, they are repulsed by oak or holly leaves, and children are often given these plants to keep in their bedrooms as defense against the foul monsters. Cuélebre - Serpentine relatives of the more common wyvern, these Spanish dragons live in coastal cave areas, and guard great hordes of treasure and artifacts. They are technically immortal, though will grow thicker scales and more developed wings as they get older, and can only be killed by being tricked into consuming a boiling hot stone or poisoned food. Cuino - Found in the thin forests of Mexico and Brazil, these odd mammals resemble hybrids of pigs and sheep, covered in wool and fur. There was originally speculation that they could represent genetic hybrids of the two farm animals, though this has since been proven to be scientifically impossible. Culloo - Capable of carrying off oxen in their mighty claws, these Native American shapeshifters live in primitive and violent tribes, and resemble enormous birds of prey in their true forms. They can be killed by feeding them dry food without water, because they will swiftly choke to death due to a bizarre biological flaw in their gullets. Some hunters have taken to mounting trophies of these creatures' wings. Cumacanga - Formed due to a curse placed either on the illicit lovers of priests or the seventh daughters of such illegitimate unisons, these South American creatures will appear as human for most of their lives, except on Friday nights when their heads will detach from their bodies and fly through the air in the forms of terrifying fireballs. The only way to prevent this is to make the eldest daughter the goddaughter of the youngest child in the family, which somehow neutralises the curse. Cumamá - Roughly the size of greyhounds, these ferocious field-dwelling South American predators are thought to be mustelids like ferrets or weasels, and are likely related to the Arenotelicon. They have black fur and glowing red eyes, and are known to mimic the wails of crying infants to attract potential victims towards them, which they will then attack in large groups. Like other supernatural hellhound-like beings, they are repelled by light and fire. Cunning Folk - Active throughout Britain from the Medieval period through to the early twentieth century, these magic users are often confused with the more malevolent witches, and are known to practice various different forms of magic such as folk magic and ceremonial magic which they learn from studying grimoires. Mostly unconcerned with cosmic matters, they use their abilities to heal people around them, locate stolen property or even tell the future. They are sometimes called White Witches. Curser - Hardly distinguishable from average humans, these common magic users are born with some latent magical capabilities, which activate at the time of their death or during another terrible event. When this happens, they will automatically and irresistibly utter a powerful curse that will destroy or bring extreme misfortune to the area in which the event takes place. These curses often take a while to come to fruition, though are unstoppable when they do. Curupira - Brazilian faeries, these creatures lurk in deep forests and appear as small humanoids covered in fiery red hair, and have backwards-facing feet to confuse potential trackers. They enjoy producing magical illusions and high-pitched whistling sounds to entice travelers and hunters to stray from their paths and become lost in the woods. Cù-Sìth - The size of a young bull, these faery hounds are said to stalk the highlands of Britain, and foretell death to all those who see them. They can move completely silently, though sometimes emit fearful howls to frighten their prey, and will hunt in packs of three individuals. They are adept at breaking into houses, and are sometimes said to kidnap pregnant animals for the milk that they produce. Cussac Devil - Witnessed for the first and only time in their namesake French locale by a group of children on August 29th, 1967, four of these diminutive alien humanoids were seen in close proximity with a sulfurous-smelling spherical UFO, and one of them appeared to be holding something resembling a mirror. The children asked the entities if they wanted to play with them, at which point the ultraterrestrials began to hover before retreating inside their craft and taking off in a spiral motion. Cŵn Annwn - Often accompanying powerful Gaelic faeries, these spectral dogs are said to patrol the moors of Wales at select times during the year. They travel in huge packs, and make loud howls that will drive those who hear them insane. It is said that they chase down those who have done wrong in their vicinity, tenaciously stalking them until their victims can no longer run. Cychreides - Terrorising isolated islands off the coast of Greece, these mighty serpentine dragons are named after the legendary ruler who is said to have raised the first member of their species as a pet. They usually live in forests and grasslands, though are known to be able to swim if necessary. Recently, they have become associated with the goddess Demeter. Cyclopedes - First mentioned in French literature written in 1874, these bizarre hairy humanoid aberrations have single arms extending from their chests and similarly-single legs with enormous feet, allowing them to hop at surprisingly great speeds. They are sometimes known to propel themselves using both their hands as second feet, and are often seen resting under the shade provided by their wide feet during the heat of midday. Because of this, they are said to be related to the sciapods. Cyclops - These monstrous giants haunt the forests and mountains of certain isolated islands off the coast of Greece and Europe. They are cannibalistic and oafish creatures, though are incredibly dangerous to humans that wander into their territory despite this. However, they have also been known to set up small farms filled with sheep and other livestock, and also to forge their own weapons and armor. Cynanthrope - First mentioned in Greek mythology though then also alluded to in the folklore of China, Timor and New Zealand, these common shapeshifters change from a human form to that of a large dog. Barbaric tribes of these creatures were described in various untouched regions by medieval explorers, though it is likely that these encounters were really with cynocephali. Some members of the species have the ability to force humans to turn into prey animals, whereupon they will devour them. Cynocentaur - Incredibly rare creatures, these beings are mostly found in Italy and other European territories, likely having followed the Roman Empire in ancient history. Domesticated individuals of this species act as devoted servants, though these beasts are truly savage when wild. Cynocephali - Widely spoken of in almost all world mythologies, these strange humanoids have heads that resemble those of dogs or jackals. Although they are usually hostile and vicious towards humans, they are also known to be adept at farming and making spices in the Middle-Eastern habitat. There are stories in the Judeo-Christian Bible about a member of this species becoming a saint. Cynogriffon - Despite being some of the smallest griffins, these canine creatures are incredibly physically strong, and can track any living creature as well as healing amazingly quickly. They were first spoken of in medieval European folklore, and are said to have once been a deity's gift to hunters because of their powerful tracking abilities. Most of them resemble winged wolves with the claws of eagles, though some rare individuals have beaks and bird heads. Cynoprosopi - Living in closely-knit packs across the Sahara Desert, these winged dragons resemble monstrous reptiles with heads akin to those of wolves or hounds, and are known to hunt gazelles and antelopes. They communicate with each-other through hisses and sharp barking noises, and were first documented in Italian folklore, presumably due to information brought back with explorers. Despite their bestial appearance, some sources suggest that they are deliberately evil and rapacious. Cyth-V'sug - A chaotic mass of fungus and thorny plants, this eldritch demon is thought to have originally been one of the Qlippoth, and now dwells in an entirely separate layer of Hell named Jeharlu, which is a single colony of highly aggressive and parasitic fungus which absorbs any and all living matter into its own vile being. Unlike other demons, it does not focus on creating cults or sin in human victims, but instead yearns to absorb as many realms into Jeharlu as possible. Czarna Wołga - Resembling a black Volga limousine, this bizarre vehicle was known to abduct children or vulnerable adults across Poland and Russia in the 1950s and 1960s, and was apparently driven by demons or other supernatural entities. The children were kidnapped so that their blood and organs could be used as donations to higher-class citizens suffering from leukemia or similar health problems. In the late 20th century, sightings began again, and this time the car had horns for wing mirrors. Dab Tsog - Known from the folklore of the Hmong people of China and South-East Asia, these nocturnal hags attack sleeping humans by sitting on their chests and literally stealing their breaths and eventually killing them over the course of several visits. Traditionally, rituals were performed to prevent this from happening, but during the Vietnam War Hmong immigrants into the US stopped performing these rituals, and there was a sudden uptick in Sudden Unexpected Nocturnal Death Syndrome. Dābbat Al-Arḍ - According to the Islamic prophecy depicting the Apocalypse, this Behemoth-like beast resembles an enormous mammalian creature with antlers and the ferocious fangs of a lion or tiger. It is said to emerge from the Earth during the last day of its existence, and hunt down those who have refused to believe in the presence of Allah. Parallels can be drawn between this and the Apocalypse Beast of Judaeo-Christianity. Dactyl - Literally made from rock, these dwarfish Greek humanoids are found in the depths of the Underworld, where they fashion metals into usable objects using the extreme heat that they can generate. They are said to have been spawned when the goddess Rhea dug her fingers into the Earth during labor, and this is why they are named after the Greek word for 'finger'. When the ancient Greeks made oaths, they would press their hands into the rocks in honor of these beings. Dade City Flower - Truly bizarre ultraterrestrial beings, these alien entities were first seen by a young girl in 1924 North America after they landed a flying vehicle in a schoolyard. They had apparently used their technology to make an ill-thought-out attempt at camouflaging themselves with terrestrial vegetation. They announced that they needed to destroy a particular science building in order to halt the work being done there, and the building later became derelict through unknown means. Dæmon - First mentioned in Grecian religion, these psychic beings are bonded to a child from conception, but will only become visible to this child if they endure a traumatic event. They often take on the form of an animal or other comforting form for the child, but are often dismissed as hallucinations due to post-traumatic stress disorder. Daeva - Savage and animalistic demons, these monsters are known in Zoroastrian traditions as servants of more powerful demonic rulers. They are usually invisible to the human eye, but their shadows can be seen at all times. Because of this stealthy nature and their powerful claws and fangs, the beings are often used as assassins or killers. Dagon - This aquatic god first appears in Bronze Age records dating back to 2500BC, and was worshipped in Babylonian culture as well. It rules over the amphibious culture of the Deep Ones, and is known to have previously possessed several human vessels in order to roam on land. Daitengu - Less savage and monstrous than their tengu cousins, these beings are found in remote mountaintops in Japan and Asia. They possess far more self-restraint than their relatives, and often follow religious disciplines to hone their magical abilities. Due to this nature, they are known to sometimes aid humans that they deem worthy of help. Ḍākinī - Energy beings in feminine form, these aerial nymph-like spirits are mentioned in the lore surrounding the Vajrayana Buddhism religion, and are also spoken of in the legends of India and Asia in which they are sometimes compared to the Peri. There are many different classes of Ḍākinī, all of which fill different roles such as acting as psychopomps or muses, protecting storytelling traditions and aiding in meditation despite being wrathful and violent by nature. They are related to devas. Dalaketnon - Found in the Philippines, these dark-skinned faeries take on the form of handsome human males or beautiful females, and will attempt to lure unwary victims into their realm. Here, they will hold a feast for the people, containing food that will transform the captives into other dalaketnon. Dalgyal Guishin - Appearing as egg-shaped entities that lack any limbs or facial features, these incredibly bizarre Korean ghosts are said to foretell the deaths of all those that see them. Because of their appearance, they have been known to disguise themselves as real eggs, and then emerge when a soon-to-die person passes them by. Some researchers suggest that they may be born from the souls of those who do not have any living relatives to mourn them. Daligmata - Mentioned in the spirituality and religious beliefs of the Philippines, these horrific-looking spirits are benevolent and helpful despite being literally covered in staring eyeballs. They are known to accompany the familiars of shamans and magic users when they are attempting to perform cures and exorcisms, and are tasked with rescuing the souls of the sick or possessed. Some alternative ideas suggest that these entities may originate from a herb that grants people magical power. Dama do Rio - Found in lakes and rivers across South America, these hostile merfolk resemble beautiful humanoid females with long green hair, and are known to protect the treasures of lost or sunken civilisations, attacking and strangling any potential intruders. Very little else is known about them, but they are assumed to be protective spirits of some kind, seeing as they will kill anyone who comes near their treasure supplies. Damaluna - Appearing akin to beautiful and pale-skinned women, these Medieval beings are often born as supernatural genetic anomalies within humanoid races such as elves or Djinn. These beings are sometimes known as 'moon women', and are often obsessed with the moon as well as having other quirky habits. They can have children with almost any sentient race, but these offspring will always grow up to be giants. Damasia - Completely black and glossy, these beautiful African predators are reported from the plains around Kenya, and are often confused with reports of black-furred leopards. They seem oddly comfortable around humans, and are not known to commonly attack them unless provoked. Dame Blanche - Attracting the attention of passersby with their hypnotic dancing, these malevolent French faeries are said to lure people to dance with them and then vanish, leaving them stranded in precarious locations. Sometimes, people who choose to dance with them will be kept unharmed, but those who refuse will be thrown deep into thorny bushes. Danava - Connected to the formless waters that are believed to have covered the universe before creation according to Hindu mythology, these mighty aquatic djinn often appear in humanoid forms using coral as armor. They are known to have led an initially successful revolt against daevas, though were ultimately defeated by a powerful deity. Dandan - Capable of completely engulfing ships and their crews, these mighty beasts are regarded as the largest fish in the world in the Middle-Eastern worldview. They are the natural adversaries of merfolk, the aquatic humanoids are sometimes known to be forced to ask human sailors for assistance against the eternally hungry fish. Danse Macabre - Although the physical form of this phenomenon is only known from medieval paintings, there is recorded evidence of their effects. They are thought to be ghosts or other undead beings, and can force their victims to dance with them in a manner akin to the legendary Pied Piper. This dance will literally lead them to their grave, with the humans dying of exhaustion after days of ceaseless movement. Danthienne - Literally feeding on discord and gossip among human population, these faeries are often found lurking on school campuses and in noble courts. They often portray themselves as wish granters, though actually use this guise to drain the souls of victims and steal precious jewelry. They have been known to partner themselves with humans, and will imbue them with confidence and happiness for a short while before feeding on their life energy. Dark Baby - This bizarre and terrible demon was seen in Kentucky in the 1960s, and was said to resemble a blow-up toy like a 'roly-poly'. It had fangs and dark, sludgy flesh, and appeared to hover over its victims. The victims described it projecting the psychic suggestion that they should follow it, though luckily none of them did. Dark Entity - Usually accompanied by smaller Grey Aliens and appearing to be in control of said beings, these inky black ultraterrestrials may be related to shadow people because of their association with sleep paralysis. They sometimes wield long needle-like instruments, and appear to be dressed in cloaks or hoods serving to conceal their insect-like bodies. Their eyes glow bright red or orange, and resemble those of insects such as praying mantises. Dark Watcher - Described as tall, featureless silhouettes adorned with wide-brimmed hats and walking sticks, these bizarre North American shadow people have been known in the folklore of California for centuries, and stalk travelers that move through mountainous regions during dusk or dawn. Native people advise travelers to pay no attention to the watchers, but if they are directly approached they will vanish. No-one knows what they are or where they come from, but they seem to not be hostile. Darnoc - The spirits of those who were greedy and oppressive in life, these wrathful ghosts resemble translucent humanoids with their faces twisted into unnatural grins. The first mention of their existence was in fantasy literature. They are an evil and corrupting presence to all those who come into contact with them, and will drain the life from them over a period of time. They are often found in treasure rooms and banks, counting the riches that they had in life but are now cursed to never have again. Dasim - Creating infidelity and cheating within romantic relationships, these manipulative and seductive djinn are well-known for generating hatred between spouses. Their ultimate goal is to create enough discontent that one of their victims resorts to murder, at which point the being will feed on the souls of their victims. Davy Jones - Often spoken of as a sort of 'water devil', this fearsome undead being is thought to have once been the soul of a piratical innkeeper who would invite weary sailors into his pub before killing them and using their bodies in the food. For this depraved behavior, he was immediately transformed into a demon when he died, and now lurks in turbulent waters worldwide, waiting the collect the souls on board sinking ships. Ddraig Aur - Far rarer than their Ddraig Goch relatives, these golden dragons are infrequently depicted in Welsh heraldic artwork, and were supposedly first discovered by the legendary Uther Pendragon. A flag showing the likeness of one of these powerful creatures was allegedly flown by King Arthur during several of his battles. Fictional sources have associated these beasts with Merlin, under the false name of Kilgharrah. Ddraig Goch - Although trapped under a mountain system in Wales for centuries, this massive dragon has recently reemerged. It is a naturally destructive creature, though it is also the embodiment of the Welsh countryside, meaning that killing it would damage the country as a whole. De Ogen - This terrifying undead phenomenon is said to be caused by the deaths of over 80 children in a particular forest in Brussels, whose spirits now amass as a green fog that causes cars to run off the road. Phantom flames and laughing can often be heard inside this fog, and the dark figures of children run around inside its mass. The bloody handprint of child will be left on the windows of cars that make it through the fog. Dead Man's Tree - Originally spoken of in the folklore of North America, these plants are believed to be inhabited by the souls of more than one dead human, and so thus are often seen on battlefields or in cemeteries. It is said that if you shine a light onto one at night, you will either summon a demonic presence or see how you are destined to die. The trees can be removed by salting and burning their stumps after they have been cut down. Dead Sea Ape - According to Muslim teachings, these savage hairy humanoids were once members of an ancient civilisation that ignored the words of God delivered through the prophet Moses. They are now rarely seen because of the high water levels in their habitat, though are still certainly alive in the modern day. Deadoendjadases - Hunting humans that stray too close to its lair among strawberry fields, this cannibalistic humanoid is mentioned in North American folklore, and is known to be closely associated with a family of three malevolent witches, who help it prepare the humans that it captures to eat. It is also capable of using magic, seeing as it can create Hadjoqda out of the discarded skins of its victims. The only way to kill it is to use magic to manipulate the Hadjoqda into killing its master. Dearg-Due - Wandering aimlessly through graveyards at night, these ancient Irish vampires usually resemble pale human women with extraordinary beauty in spite of their undead nature, and are known to use their physical appeal to lure unwary men towards them in order to drain them of blood by kissing them on the mouth. The only way to stop one from continually decimating the male population is to find its grave and erect a cairn atop it. However, some individuals can escape four times a year. Death Echo - This type of ghost is one of the least intelligent and least dangerous. They are forced to constantly relive their deaths, and will appear wherever their body is taken, even if it is not their death site. They are incredibly difficult to reason with, though strong emotions can bring out some slight humanity in them. Deathcrawler - Giant South American centipedes, these deeply unpleasant creatures are known to feed on birds and frogs by killing them using their lethal venom. The creatures hang from the ceilings of caves and curl their bodies backwards to catch animals in mid-flight. Although they usually target small animals, their venom can be fatal to humans if not treated. Deaval - Dwelling specifically around the Spirit Mound area in North America, these diminutive faeries are also referred to as the 'Little Devils' because of their aggressively territorial behavior. Despite being only 18 inches tall, they are known to hunt and kill human intruders using deadly bows and arrows. They are usually found inside hills and dunes, similarly to the sidhe. Decarabia - Spoken of in Christian demonology, these ugly demons are said to be the medicine men and herbalists of Hell, and are capable of shapeshifting into birds. When on Earth, they will assume the form of a humanoid creature grotesquely contorted into the shape of a pentagram star. Dechmont Woods Sphere - It was November 9th, 1979 when a forestry worker named Robert Taylor was confronted with a large, spherical UFO that appeared to be blinking in and out of visibility, and deposited two smaller, spiked spheres to the ground. The alien constructs then rolled towards Taylor, eventually using their spines to grab him by the trousers and drag him towards the UFO before he was rendered unconscious. After the ultraterrestrial incident, strange tracks were found on the ground. Deep One - This aquatic race is found deep underneath the Pacific Ocean, where they consume fish and other marine animals. However, they seem hostile to humans, and are somehow able to breathe air when they come onto land. This has led to the hybridization of small populations of humans with these monsters, resulting in fully terrestrial individuals of this species. Deep Scion - Surrendering their bodies and souls to the powers of various aquatic demons in exchange for their lives, these people were once the victims of such creatures into which they are transformed by use of a dark magic ritual, thus becoming hideous shapeshifters in eternal servitude to the demons with which they bartered. They will return to the surface and return to their old personalities, acting as spies for their masters. If they are killed, they will revert to humanity. Deer Woman - Seductive and rarely-seen, these curious North American shapeshifters are known from Native traditions all across the country, and are often said to lure unwary men to their deaths using their beauty. They will seduce and enchant their victims into following them obsessively, which will eventually lead to madness and death unless the spell is broken using tobacco. It is said that having the victim see the hooves that the monsters have instead of feet will break their obsession. Deildegast - According to Norwegian lore, these ghoulish ghosts are formed from the deceased souls of those who squandered their neighbors out of land and territory in life, and are now doomed to forever be trying to right their wrongs. They can often be found in dark and abandoned areas, and will haunt the structures that represent borders between properties. Delphinus - Created by the Greek deity Poseidon to scout out potential partners for him, these fast-swimming dolphin-like creatures are known to be attracted by the sound of human singing. If people fall into the water after singing, the creatures have been sometimes said to pick them up and carry them towards the coast of Greece. Delphyne - Similar to Dracaena or Nāga but far larger and more aggressive, these serpentine hybrids resemble vaguely feminine humanoids with the coiling tails of dragons, and are often known to kidnap farmers and their livestock from isolated Greek settlements. The first member of this species was created by the monstrous deity known as Typhon to guard the dismembered tendons of Zeus, which were believed to have magical abilities. This individual was slain by an arrow from the bow of Apollo. Demeter - This ancient Greek goddess represents the fertility of the land and the harvest, and can influence the crops of localities that she visits, often bringing prosperity. However, if she is threatened, she can control the temperature and climate of the territories that she controls. Demigod - Often born from the forbidden unison of a pagan deity and a human, these people will be born with supernaturally enhanced strength or other skills correlating to their godly parent. They are mostly human in shape, and are sometimes known to have been worshipped as minor deities by ancient cultures such as the Romans and the ancient Greeks. Demon - Dwelling in the torturous depths of Hell according to Judaeo-Christian literature and most other religious texts, these extremely malevolent spirits are either fallen angels that have been warped into monstrous forms by their own evil, or completely distinct entities that may have been created from the human souls tortured in Hell. They are most known in modern times to possess people and take control of their bodies, and must be exorcised using specific spells when this happens. Demon - Formed from human souls that have become corrupted due to torture in Hell, these creatures return to Earth to inflict the pain that they felt on other humans. They can possess people, and are repulsed by iron weaponry. They can be trapped using a particular sigil called a 'devil's trap'. Demon Baby - Born when a mother is possessed by a demonic presence when pregnant, these creatures will at first resemble a usual infant, though will then become unusually intelligent. They will soon gain a terrifying, demonic appearance and psychic abilities. Exorcism doesn't work, because these beings are demon hybrids rather than simply possessed. Demoniac - When a person is possessed by a demon for an extended period of time, the evil spirit can bond more strongly to their human host and begin to create physical changes in their bodies. These usually include greenish skin, glowing eyes and open wounds, as well as warped voices and knowledge regarding the pasts and futures of all those around them. Demoniacs usually organize themselves into cult-like settings, attempting to summon more powerful demons. Den Sorte Mand - Similar to other ghosts or bogeymen that live in wells, these dark-skinned faeries can be found in the folklore of Norse areas. They have very little purpose other than severely frightening young people who come to collect water, but have been known to drag victims down into their lairs on some occasions. Little is known about their appearance, other than their burning red eyes and black skin. Denglong - Also known as 'Wangtianhou', these ferocious Chinese dragons are thought to be among the many children of the Dragon King, are said to deliver the will of Heaven to Earth and vice versa, acting as heavenly messengers. However, other accounts say that they are deadly creatures which originated from the East China Sea, and are capable of defeating other dragons by spitting fire, after which they eat their brains. The bodies of deceased individuals will explode into flames. Deridder - In Louisiana during 1996, the corpse of one of these canine primates was discovered on the side of the road, seemingly having been killed by a car. It had a long snout and brown fur, as well as pronounced claws and fang-like teeth. Living specimens of the species are seen very rarely, though they are thought to be related to the devil monkeys. Dero - Despite mostly looking like humanoid monsters, these subterranean creatures are actually surprisingly intelligent, and are known to sometimes communicate with humans. They are not believed to be benevolent, and have developed numerous forms of destructive weaponry to ward off any potential invaders to their underground cities. Derrick - Uncommon faeries found on the roadsides and footpaths of the English area of Devonshire, these evil and duplicitous creatures are thought to be similar to dunnies, and their name is a corruption of an archaic term for 'dwarf'. They are mischievous and malevolent much like goblins, and derive pleasure from leading travelers astray, potentially into dangerous situations. Derwyn Corff - Flying around and landing on areas where death and sickness abound, these disgusting British scavengers resemble ravens with sparse coverings of feathers, and their name literally translates as 'death bird'. They act as messengers of death rather than the causes of it, and are known to tap their beaks on the windows of households that will soon suffer a loss. Descabezado - South American Undead beings with bodies literally filled with roaring flames, these headless humanoids wear ancient-looking helmets from which smoke and fire billows while they invade farms and houses with the intention of stealing valuable items. However, they are known to spare humans who do not attempt to prevent their thievery, and are also said to have peculiar senses of humour. If forced to attack, they will do so using flaming swords, and can be defeated by decapitation. Destrachan - Despite being blind, these dungeon-dwelling creatures have advanced three-part ears which render their hearing comparatively better than many other creatures' sight. They resemble theropod dinosaurs with large ears and no eyes, as well as gaping mouths from which they can emit carefully focused and concentrated harmonics, producing sonic energy powerful enough to shatter a stone wall. In battle, they will first use their sonic attacks to destroy armour and then use their claws. Deva - Originally found in the Middle East though now known to have spread all over the world, these powerful elemental spirits are thought to be human souls that have been reincarnated into angelic forms due to their good deeds in life, according to Buddhist cosmology. They all have slightly different characteristics depending on how they lived when they were human, and some of them become degraded back down to human states if they commit evil deeds while in deva form. Devalpa - Appearing as frail old men, these djinn wait by the sides of roads in Iran, and will ask travelers to carry them on their backs. If the travelers do this, then serpentine limbs will emerge from the creature and clasp around the victim, forcing them to act as their slave. The only way to rid oneself of a devalpa is by allowing the beast to consume large amounts of alcohol and become drunk, at which point it will let go. Deviant - Related to Reptilian aliens, these psychopathic scaly humanoids are thought to be behind some of the mythology surrounding a connection between demons and aliens. They are found in small underground societies across the world, though have been known to surface and destroy isolated communities using their advanced technology. Devil - Not the same as Lucifer or demons, these foul beings are thought to have once been angels that descended into Hell after betraying the Judaeo-Christian God during a battle in Heaven. They are powerful and intelligent, as well as being agile and physically strong in battle. When interacting with humans, they take sick pleasure in tempting them to commit sins or serious crimes. Devil Bird - Rarely seen, this preternatural animal has abilities similar to those of a banshee. Those who have seen it say that it appears a hybrid of an owl and a hawk eagle, with horn-like crests on its head. It is also called the Ulama. Devil Monkey - These vicious beasts are greatly feared by dogs and humans, despite not being supernatural. They were first encountered in the 1970s, though have become common all over North America since. They have powerful front limbs and kangaroo-like legs which they can use to move at great speed. Devilet - First mentioned in early 18th British religious texts, these diminutive and impish demons are thought to originally have been born from shattered or damaged human souls. They act as subordinates or servants to more powerful demons and devils, but are much more rarely seen nowadays than they once were. Devil-Jack Diamond-Fish - Dwelling in the muddy rivers of North America and Ohio, these enormous garfish are covered in segmented scales that are as hard as their namesake mineral, rendering their bodies completely bulletproof. They have the long and crocodilian jaws that are characteristic of the group to which they belong, and they are ambush hunters that hide on the beds of murky rivers. Only the strongest nets and hooks can take these creatures. Devil's Swamp Winged Scorpion - On June 8th of 2000, a 41-year-old man named Roger Mixon was hunting in the aptly-named North American Louisiana swamp when he came across a large UFO shaped like a bat's wing resting on the ground. Three ultraterrestrial beings were seen, described as alien humanoids with iron breastplates, four wings and tails like those of scorpions. The hunter shot at one of them, but it was unhurt and fired back using a beam weapon before all three boarded UFO and vanished. Dhampir - Born from the unnatural unison of a human and a vampire, these hybrid undead are known from the European folklore of the Balkans, and are believed to have specialised abilities allowing them to hunt down and kill malevolent vampires, such as the ability to see invisible vampires and naturally practice magic. The vampire hunting profession is often passed down from fathers to sons of Dhampir descent, and Dhampirs can be recognised by their soft bodies and tail-like marks on their backs. Dhampir - These creatures were first heard about in Balkans folklore, but have of course been existent everywhere else in the world for a very long time. They are born from the unison of a vampire and a human, and have the abilities of both without their weaknesses, though can be killed by driving a wooden stake through their heart after having been identified by their lack of a shadow. Dhampir - These creatures were first heard about in Balkans legend, but have of course been existent everywhere else in the world for a very long time. They are born from the unison of a vampire and a human, and have the abilities of both without their weaknesses, though can be killed by driving a wooden stake through their heart after having been identified by their lack of a shadow. It is sometimes said that they do not have bones, but this seems to be a misinterpreted teleportation ability. Dharmapāla - Wrathful and violent towards those who wish to harm followers of the Buddhist faith, these fearsome deities are actually akin to Buddhas, meaning that they are the embodiments of compassion, and only act in an animalistic manner for the benefit of other sentient beings. They are considered to be the protectors of the Dharma, meaning that they guard the laws of the universe and the Buddhist religion. In Indian and Asian artwork, they are shown as fanged humanoids with colourful skin. D'hawg - Covered in shaggy black fur, this glowing eyed beast is found in the mountains and swamps of Georgia, where it devours human children. Its bear-like mouth contains large tusks and a forked, serpentine tongue. Dheeyabery - Resembling physically beautiful humans when viewed from the front, these monstrous Australian shapeshifters will appear as great mounds of folded flesh if seen from the back. Despite their obviously clumsy gaits, they can slip through tiny openings and use this ability to hunt mid-sized animals. Dhinnabarrada - Living in tribal societies across Australia, these humanoids resemble hybrids of humans and emus, and feed on grubs that they forage from local forests. They always move in tightly-knit groups, communicating with each other and innocent human bystanders using strange and garbled telepathic messages. Just like aboriginal human populations, they are known to fashion boomerangs and similar weapons from surrounding foliage. Diabeł z Dyskoteki - Shapeshifting into the forms of handsome and attractive humans in order to attend rave parties and discos, these Polish demons can be distinguished from regular humans by their heavy scent of sulphur and their cloven hooves. Diao Si Gui - Formed from the souls of those who either committed suicide by hanging themselves or were executed in the same fashion, these Chinese ghosts haunt the location in which they were hanged. They usually appear as pale corpses with long red tongues akin to those of aswangs, and will attempt to convince travelers to kill themselves and join them in the Afterlife. Dientudo - Giant humanoids, these creatures resemble hybrids of humans and bears, and have large teeth with which they tear prey such as deer and humans apart. They are found in the mountains and forests of Argentina and other South American areas. Dijiang - Appearing as glowing sacks of feathers and light, these four-winged creatures have no head or face, and yet can still produce powerful hypnotic songs. Because of their lack of sensory organs, they live in an eternal state of confusion and chaos. They are often found in Chinese mountain areas with abundances of precious metals. Dilong - Unlike other Chinese dragons, these wingless creatures are unable to fly and instead dwell in and around muddy bodies of water. They can create stormy weather and landslides in their vicinity if they are annoyed, and their remains are sometimes used in powdered form in traditional herbal medicine. Dimensional Shambler - Capable of appearing anywhere in our world and warping the laws of physics around them, these bizarre predators resemble humanoid figures with very little facial features and tiny yellow eyes. They are tenacious hunters, and will suck human victims into their own dimension using powerful magic before feeding on their minds and souls. Due to modern popular culture, they are sometimes referred to as 'demogorgons'. Dindonette - Despite being held to have the 'kindest heart', this rather clumsy faery always causes nothing but pain and misery when she attempts to help the humans around her, such as in a well-known case when she enchanted a fountain so that it would turn children that drank from it into adults and vice versa. She was so embarrassed by the damage that she did that she eventually exiled herself, though was brought back by another group of faeries who realised that she never meant to do harm. Dingbat - Small and annoying flying relatives of rust monsters, these peculiar North American animals resemble horned birds at first glance, and are well-known for consuming bullets and firearms. This trait has been exaggerated in local lumberjack folklore, so much so that it is now said that they devour bullets in mid-air if they are fired at them. Dingonek - Described as resembling leopard-like big cats with sabre-teeth, tough scales like those of pangolins, and long tails ending in fins, these West African semi-aquatic hybrids were first mentioned in the early 1900s by a big game hunter named John Alfred Jordan. Their tusks are over a metre long, allowing them to ambush animals as large as hippopotamuses from behind and mortally wound them with a bite. They are roughly 15ft long, and are sometimes nicknamed 'jungle walruses'. Dingonek - Discovered by hunters in the 19th to 20th century, these relatives of kaprosuchus are often mistaken for walruses due to their aquatic lifestyle. They can often be found lurking on the riverbanks of Central Africa, where they feed on hippopotamuses and other animals. Dinnshenchas - Serving the goddess of cattle and protector of women known as Aine in Irish folklore, these dwarfish faeries assume appearances similar to humanoid females in their true forms, but with slightly haggish features. Like the deity that they serve, they use their shapeshifting abilities to take on various forms to avenge women who have been wronged or harmed by men, as well as to protect cattle and livestock. They share their name with a genre of literature despite having no other connection to the books. Dinny-Mara - Kindly merfolk known from the folklore of the Isle of Man, these aquatic humanoids are much less fearsome than other merfolk, but are known to send large gusts of wind towards ships on which people whistle, meaning that whistling on a ship is superstitiously advised against. They resemble other merfolk from a distance, but when they are approached it is clear they are quite different, with large eyes and noses reddened from drinking brandy salvaged from shipwrecks, and breath stinking of the raw eggs that they eat. Dinohirudo - Often mistaken for one of the various other species of monsters that reside in Loch Ness, these massive invertebrates are some of the largest leeches alive. They have been able to grow to enormous sizes in the Scottish loch because of the abundance on sheep and deer in the area, on which it feeds. The juveniles of the species are small, and indistinguishable from regular leeches, though the larger ones are often misidentified as the neck of a much larger animal. Dinosauroid - Officially known as 'Troodon Sapiens', these upright humanoid creatures are descended from theropod dinosaurs from the Mesozoic Era. They were first discovered living in a network of underground cities in the 1960s, but are also sometimes seen above ground, hunting or gathering food. These occurrences spawn some myths about reptilian aliens. Dip - Akin to hellhounds, but much more powerful, these beasts are the size of bears and will appear in areas where there is a large population of demons. They can change their form to represent whatever is most feared by the beholder, though will always be lame on one leg, which is a trait shared by some other demonic animals. Dipsas - Lurking in the African desert, this tiny blue snake has deadly venom, though is physically small enough to be overlooked by many hunters and explorers. This venom will cause human victims to experience intense thirst, and to feel a burning sensation inside their bodies. Those infected will be forced to drink so much that their stomachs explode. Dirawong - Represented as a benevolent protector spirit in Aboriginal Australian mythology, these mid-sized reptiles resemble a giant goanna lizard. They have long necks and a herbivorous diet, which has led to some hunters misidentifying them with sauropod dinosaurs. Dire Hyena - Strange mammalian predators, these creatures are actually not related to hyenas, and seem to come from a long-extinct prehistoric family of hoofed predators. They hunt in packs, and seem to possess a venomous bite, which is highly unusual for mammals. Because of this powerful hunting ability and their appearance, they are often kept as pets and hunting hounds by gnolls. Dirne-Weibl - Found in the thick forests of Germany and Bavaria, these faeries take on the forms of beautiful human women dressed entirely in white, and will wander the woodlands in search of travelers to accompany them. However, if they refused to do so out of fear then the nature spirits would start weeping and suddenly vanish, and it is unclear what happens if the traveler accepts. In Bavarian folklore they are said to wear entirely red, and to give out magic apples that transform into money. Dirty Angel - Quite clearly not angelic despite their rather inaccurate name, these hideous North American flying humanoids are detailed in some folkloric accounts from the Paiute people of Nevada, and were compared to angels because that was the name that foreign settlers had used when drawing winged humanoids. They have bat-like wings, hooked claws and large eyes, and are said to emit a hideous odour comparable to that of a rotting carcass. There is a chance they are related to the Ahool. Discerptionii - Goblin-like demons found in the lower and more chaotic sections of Hell, these incredibly violent diminutive creatures take sickening joy in dismembering and mutilating any humans that they come across, and are feared by other demons due to their sheer gleeful barbarism. Populations contain numerous different variations of the same winged, horned humanoid body-shape. Because of their inability to be reasoned with, they are almost never summoned by sane humans. Disir - Watching over their descendants by attaching themselves to man-made structures such as houses, these Norse spirits are thought to be the ghosts of long-dead female ancestors, and can be helpful or destructive to those around them. Although they usually appear as ghostly humanoids, they can sometimes manifest as animals which represent the personality of the viewer, such as a fox for a cunning person. Ceremonies called Disathing were performed on October full-moon nights in their honour. Displacer Beast - Faery big cats, these creatures resemble panthers with long tendrils sprouting from their backs, and far too many legs for an earthly mammal. They have the innate ability to bend light around their bodies, making them appear several feet away from their actual position, and can use this ability to make it incredibly difficult for hunters or prey to estimate how many beasts they are facing at once. Because they were first discovered as a result of the popularity of modern fantasy games and literature, they are likely a modern species. Ditcin - Bloated humanoid monstrosities, these Native American creatures represent hunger and control the human desire to consume food, meaning that the local human populations will refuse to eat and eventually starve to death if the creatures are killed or harmed. If they are threatened, they will often use the lives of the surrounding humans to barter their way out. Despite being the physical manifestations of gluttony, they usually only feed on cacti and other plants of low nutritional value. Div - Well-known for their overpowering physical strength and their ruthlessness in combat, these Middle Eastern demons are thought to have originally been gods or other benevolent beings that were rejected and forgotten by human populations. This triggered a transformation into monstrous creatures that are living representatives of war and conflict. They are sometimes confused with daevas or djinn. Div-e Sepid - Enormous ogre-like demons, these creatures are spoken of in several religious texts of the Middle East, and are well-known for their striking white skin and astonishing magical abilities. They can summon showers of meteors and burning rocks to attack their enemies, and are also capable of raising the dead in their vicinity. However, their blood and flesh can be used to cure any ills that they had previously inflicted. Diwata - Similar to pagan gods, these powerful Filipino faeries are usually benevolent or neutral, though are also capable of causing serious misfortune or death for any people that may cross them. They are often prayed to or invoked in rituals to grant good fortune and crop growth, but also because of their amazing fighting skills and superior knowledge. There is some speculation that they may have once been deities that retreated to Earth to multiply in number and live among humanity. Djieiene - These large supernatural spiders are able to inject venom into their victims which causes bouts of aggression and violence, and then the monster will feed on the negative energy that this creates. Select victims will have parts of the spider placed inside them, which will render the spider itself indestructible unless said parts are destroyed. Djilaqons - Fickle though helpful, these North American aquatic faeries resemble humanoid frogs with feminine features, and the ability to produce fire at will. If they are insulted or the water that they live in is over-fished, they have been known to suddenly start fires and burn entire villages down. According to local folklore, the soul survivor of one of these fires went on to become the mother of a tribe respectfully dedicated to the amphibious beings. Djinn - This greatly varied race dwells mostly around the Middle East, and can be good or evil, but will hunt humans as prey just as a lion may hunt a gazelle. They inject their prey with a toxin through their skin, which keeps the victim sedated as the creatures drain their blood. There have been recorded cases of Djinn attempting to break this cycle and ally with humans. Djugwe - Resembling bower-birds in both their appearance and habits, these dinosaur-like faeries are known as spirits or deities from Australian mythology. They build intricate nests and display structures for potential mates, and are said to have taught the Aboriginal humans how to build houses in ancient times. Dobby - Similar to the fictional character named after them, these playful household faeries are mentioned in English folklore, in which they are described as thin and hairy beings that usually remain in stables to watch over animals, but are also said to guard the families with which they live in times of crisis. They are kind to children and servants. However, Dobbies without houses to live in tend to lurk in derelict ruins or water sources, attacking travelers and allegedly controlling deer. Dobhar Chu - Resembling a hybrid of an otter and a large, carnivorous fish, these monsters were to be found in the British Isles in ancient times, though have become rarer nowadays. Despite this, they are still a very real hazard to those who wander too close to the lakes of Ireland, but can be killed using silver bullets. Dobrochoczy - Resembling large tree-like beings, these Slavic elementals hide in forests and use their appearance to camouflage themselves among the shrubbery. They take care of the injured or lost, but will inflict hideous diseases on those that they judge to be wicked or dishonest. These punishments can be avoided by offering them sacrifices of bread and salt wrapped in cloth. Dodomeki - Human women who develop a penchant for stealing and pickpocketing are sometimes known to suddenly transform into these bizarre Japanese humanoids, described as resembling their former selves but with long arms covered in hundreds of bird's eyes. There is a local legend describing a nobleman named Fujiwara no Hidesato who was called to a mountainous area haunted by a many-eyed Oni which could shapeshift into a Dodomeki, leading some to believe that Dodomekis' true forms may be Onis. Dogman - Like a bipedal timber wolf or a large primate that has adapted to resemble a canine, these predatory hairy humanoids were first documented in 1887, and have since been seen all across the world. Their native territory seems to be the thick forests of North America and Canada, particularly Michigan and Ohio. Findings of mutilated sheep and livestock in their territories are common. Dogū - Tiny Japanese constructs, these clay figures are usually adorned with strange swirling symbols and wide eyes like goggles. They are thought to have originally been used in rituals surrounding fertility and pregnancy, and some of them seem to bear the image of a mother deity. Dokkaebi - Resembling demonic goblins, these malevolent Korean beings are born from objects that are stained with the blood of murdered humans, and enjoy playing cruel tricks and pranks on human passersby. They will sometimes demand that a traveler compete against them in a wrestling match in order to gain safe passage, though these challenges never end with the human winning. Because of their origin, they are afraid of the sight of blood. Dökkálfar - Described as subterranean faeries likely related to elves or dwarves, these diminutive humanoids are depicted in ancient Norse folklore as being 'blacker than pitch', and are thus often referred to as 'Dark Elves'. They are likely closely related to the Svartálfar and the Ljósálfar, both of which are similarly nebulous groupings of elves. There is no specific realm in which the Dökkálfar are said to dwell, and instead they are found in tunnels and caves on Earth. Dolghast - Literally half dead, these creatures are born from the grotesque fusion of living and dead tissue performed by necromancy, and require constant magical input in order to remain functional. They were mentioned in modern fantasy literature. Their bodies are often half-decayed, and they constantly emit a stomach-turning stench. They live in a constant state of rage and jealousy for all living things, and will kill themselves if not constantly controlled. Domovoi - These household spirits are mainly found in Russia, and often resemble either small humans covered in hair, or a hybrid of a cat and a dog. They are able to shapeshift and tell the future, but will act as poltergeists if they are angered by the behavior of the house's owners. Donestre - Greek shapeshifters, these lion-like beings are able to speak all of the languages of the human race, and use this linguistic skill to lure victims into their subterranean lairs. The beasts will then viciously eat the entire body of the human save for the head, which they will keep as a trophy. There are stories of the creatures crying because of their own brutalities, though these are unconfirmed to be true. Dongo - Responsible for producing lightning strikes and thunderclaps in the mythology of West Africa, these elemental faeries are associated with the fertility of the land around them. They often appear as humanoid figures shrouded in a cloak, and are seen to carry large axes that glow with lightning and electricity. Despite their imposing appearance, very little is known about their abilities. Dongola Miso - Known for their terrifying eyes which appear to have some kind of a mesmeric effect on their victims, these awful boogeymen are mentioned in the folklore of the African Congo, in which their presence is used by parents to encourage their children to go to bed on time. The other piece of information that is available on the entities suggest that they can somehow camouflage themselves against human populations, because they are also spoken of to warn against trusting strangers. Donkey Lady - According to 1950s North American mythology, this grotesque hybrid creature haunts a particular bridge in Texas, and is said to have originally been the spirit of a deformed women who was murdered because of her appearance. She always used to take care of a beloved herd of donkeys, and now takes on a form similar to the animals that she treasured in life. Dōnotsura - Similar to the Blemmyes, these warlike monsters are depicted in 19th century Japanese scroll art, and are said to be vicious and brash in nature. This behavior is sometimes said to be due to their inability to be decapitated for their deplorable deeds, though it is likely that this is meant to be metaphorical rather than literal. Donyakdane - Ascribed supernatural abilities of clairvoyance and healing in Native American mythology despite their hideous, worm-like appearance, these shapeshifters resemble humanoid woodworms. They are paid tribute to on totem poles and traditional artwork, and their secretions are sometimes used in medicine. Dooinney-Oie - Unique to the Isle of Man despite bearing a faint resemblance to the Banshee, this nocturnal faery being usually dwells in a secluded cave in Cronk-y-Thonna where it will watch over the nearby area of Glen Roy. No local people dare go near the cave, save for some foolhardy younger people who are quickly discouraged by supernatural pains. Despite its introverted nature, it is generally regarded as helpful because it warns fishermen of incoming storms so they can salvage their nets. Doppelgänger - Monsters that can take on the form of any human that they encounter, they will change into their form by shedding and changing their physical skin, leading to them being relatively easy to track. They tend not to behave as monsters, but rather as humans fulfilling their natural desires, and can be detected by their glowing eyes in photos, then can be killed using silver weaponry. Dorotabō - These wrathful ghosts represent farmers who have died in their land, and have thus remained tethered to the area to watch it fall into disrepair under a neglectful owner. Their bodies are supposedly fashioned from dirt and mud, and only extend down to their waists, where they are gruesomely severed. The creatures call out in mournful voices at night, causing insanity and sleep deprivation in the land's inhabitants. Double-Headed Eagle - First rising to prominence in the ancient Middle East, these two headed birds have since become well known across Europe and Africa, making them some of the most widely-distributed supernatural birds. Their symbol was often used to represent powerful empires such as that achieved by the ancient Romans. They are known to hunt small animals such as hares and deer. Douen - Held to be the diminutive ghosts of infants who died before they could be baptised, these Caribbean ghosts are cursed to eternally wander the forests, and are said to resemble human children with backwards-turned feet and no facial features save for small mouths. They are known to lure children into the forest either by befriending them or learning their names from overhearing their parents and calling them away. Douen can be vanquished by exposing them to holy water and saying a prayer. Doumokoumo - Carnivorous Japanese giants, these two headed humanoids lurk in the plains and wildernesses of their country, and will capture and eat humans that they can catch. Each of their heads control one half of their bodies, meaning that one can survive if the other is killed or removed. Dover Demon - Closely related to the mannegishi and merbeings, these small creatures are to be found in shallow bodies of water, where they feed on reeds and shellfish using their grasping hands. A member of this species was sighted in the 1970s in its namesake North American area, and caused considerable panic because of its alien appearance. Some have suggested a relation to the ultraterrestrials. Dovregubben - Often dressing in robes and makeshift crowns, these Norwegian beings are capable of controlling trolls and ogres in their vicinity, and often set up kingdoms and palaces beneath mountains. They have powerful magic abilities, and are capable of performing feats such as altering the perception of their enemies, making them see everything as a threat. Drac - Closely related to sirens and melusines, these winged merfolk are found in rivers and estuaries around France, and use their soft voices to lure unwary travelers into treacherous waters. They are sometimes mistaken for nymphs or dragons, based on the different parts of their bodies that are witnessed above the surface of the water. Dracaena - Appearing as beautiful human women with the lower halves of monstrous serpents or dragons, these strange beings are thought to have been worshipped as earth deities in the times of Greek mythology. They are capable of shapeshifting and having children with humans, and one of them is thought to have done so with the legendary Heracles. Drachenstein - Mentioned in German mythology, these wingless dragons resemble larger versions of the more common wyrms, and are known to hoard large quantities of treasure and valuable items. Because of their similar appearance and behaviour, they are thought to be the descendants of Fafnir. The first individual of the species was slain by a hero seeking to steal its treasure. Draconopedes - Sometimes more serpentine in appearance, these Biblical creatures are said to have been present in the Garden of Eden, where they were associated with the legendary Serpent. Some individuals of the species have limbs and powerful bodies, whereas some others simply have the faces of humans atop the curling bodies of snakes. It is unknown why this striking dimorphism occurs. Draegloth - Spawned from the unholy unison of a Glabrezu demon and a Drow priestess, these monstrous hybrid creatures are often seen as a blessing from the Drow deity known as Lolth, and resemble enormous grey-skinned humanoids with two sets of arms, long white hair and glowing red eyes. They are not unintelligent, but prefer to wade into battle and slaughter their enemies using their powerful claws as opposed to making tactics. Appearing similar, they are sometimes mistaken for Wendigos. Drago - Likely closely related to Nāgas, this Spanish dragon was described as having the torso of a human but the coiling body of a giant serpent or basilisk, and was said to have inslaved an entire region in ancient times by threatening the locals using its terrible roars. It demanded to be fed, and once it had consumed all of the region's livestock it devoured every human in the vicinity. Its fate is unclear, with some sources saying it starved to death while others insist it moved to Africa. Dragon Turtle - First mentioned in Chinese mythology, these massive creatures are distantly related to true dragons, but have evolved for a completely aquatic lifestyle. They live in vast caves on the sea floor, and guard territories of up to 50 square miles. If any boat or other dragon turtle enters this territory, they will be viciously attacked using the beast's brute strength and powerful jaws. Dragonborn - Born from the unison of shapeshifting dragons and human partners, these regal beings usually resemble humanoids with some reptilian or possibly monstrous characteristics, despite having the intelligence and moral compass of a human. They are usually prodigious and powerful, and are known to become royalty or great heroes in European or Asian folktales. Dragpoi Dubthab - Produced through the use of the ancient Tibetan ritual from which they get their name, these malevolent tulpas are usually created by wrathful magic users for the sole purpose of harming or killing others. When attempting to perform the deadly ritual, practitioners must isolate themselves from the rest of society and be prepared to resign themselves to the damnation that comes from ordering the death of another human being. Draug - Closely related to the Norse draugr, these crafty aquatic undead are capable of shapeshifting to become masses of matted seaweed or slippery rocks, which instantly kill those that step on them. In order to kill them, they must be decapitated, and the effect of their rocky form can be counteracted by spitting on them. Draugr - Rotting and stinking like a walking corpse, these ancient Norse undead are born when the soul of a deceased individual is too strong to be sent into the Afterlife, and so therefore reanimates the body instead. They mostly exist to guard treasure or torment the living, and are capable of changing their size or becoming pillars of smoke at will. The only way to kill them is by driving needles through their feet. Dreach-Fhoula - Associated with long-lasting blood feuds between opposing families, these ancient Irish faeries are named after the local term for 'tainted blood', and are thought to be vampiric in nature, draining the blood of their victims. There is a castle in Kerry County named Du'n Dreach-Fhoula after the horrid creatures, and it is thought to have served as some of the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. They are thought to be extinct due to the lack of encounters or new information. Drekavac - Found mostly in Bosnia and the surrounding areas, these vicious winged predators will roost around farms, from which they will often steal livestock. They emit terrifying howls, which can carry for miles and are said to foretell death and doom. Light burns their skin, meaning that they only come out at night, and thus a good description of their appearance has not yet been obtained. Dretch - Common and thuggish demons, these blubbery creatures are often used as foot-soldiers by more powerful entities. They can create a cloud of vapour around them, which causes extreme fear and panic in all those who breathe it in. Their long ears are used for their enhanced sense of hearing, which allows them to hunt prey in complete darkness. Drop Bear - Originally thought of as nothing more than a harmless Australian myth, these creatures are actually relatives of thylacoleo. They will hide in trees in dense forests, and will jump on top of their victims and crush them using their massive weight whilst tearing them to shreds with their teeth. According to semi-serious advice given by Australian tour-guides, they can be repelled if potential victims smear Vegemite behind their ears. Drow - Resembling elves with dark skin and pale hair, these demon-worshipping humanoids live in matriarchal societies in underground areas, and are well-known for their evil and sadistic natures, believing that they are the apex race and that they have a right to subjugate other species. Strangely, they are capable of producing hybrid offspring with both humans and elves, and often do so due to their seductive personalities and beautiful appearances. They are also known as dark elves. Drude - Possessing the bodies of innocent and virginal young women, these hideous German hags are thought to be related to demons, and only leave the bodies of their hosts at night, shapeshifting into animals or simply clouds of dark smoke. They enter the houses of sleeping victims and sit on their chests, causing horrific nightmares and damage to their very souls. Druid - Best remembered in Celtic and Welsh folklore as religious and dignitary leaders, these cryptic magic users are famous for leaving nothing tangible in their wake that could be used to track them. They are masters of herbal medicines and ancient spells that are not used by other groups. In order to remain secluded from the outside world, modern druids communicate via telepathy. Druj Nasu - As soon as the soul leaves the body, these Zoroastrian demons are said to immediately descend upon it and inflict it with a strange contamination. Anyone who then comes into contact with the infected body will be permanently contaminated with dark magic, and can only be cured by purifying their bodies when they eventually die. In ancient times, these victims would be quarantined in order to halt the spread of the disease. Druk - Shy and reclusive despite their beauty and wisdom, these giant Asian dragons are found in the mountains of Tibet and Bhutan, and are represented on the national flag of the latter. They are often depicted as carrying jewels that represent wealth and good fortune, and the roaring of the thunder during storms is sometimes thought to be the voice of these intelligent creatures. Cults and religious orders have been set up which interpret the thunder as omens or prophecies. Dryad - Less common than often believed, these forest nymphs are spoken about in the mythology and folklore of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The goddess Artemis is known to be heavily associated with the creatures, which are usually shy and reclusive towards other deities and humans. They were originally considered to be specifically related to oak trees, though they have since broadened out to represent all flora. Dschuma - Either appearing as young and virginal women or hideous old hags, these shapeshifting Romanian witches are said to spread cholera wherever they go, suffering from the disease themselves and thus wailing in pain at night, when the version of the disease they carry is much worse. They cannot be destroyed, but can be made to leave the area if seven women sew a scarlet shirt and leave it out for the creatures, which suffer greatly from cold and will leave as a sign of appreciation. Dtundtuncan - Only one of the many forms taken by the demonic Kakasbal, this Mayan creature resembles a hideous, plump bird with one leg and blackened sockets in place of its eyes, and is said to have previously lived among Central American ruined buildings before being forced to move up to the mountains by explorers and intruders on its territory. It can only be observed at dusk, when it searches for sleeping children to poison with its breath. Some researchers also know it as 'Kakaschuch'. Duah - This living pterosaur is found in Papua New Guinea, where it is reported to raid graveyards in order to feed on the corpses whilst emitting a strong bioluminescent glow. The glowing function is likely used in displays to potential mates, as the creatures can often be seen flying in patterns in the night sky. Duamutef - Rare undead shapeshifters, these creatures lurk in areas such as burial grounds and cemeteries, and have become associated with mummification because of their resemblance to Anubis. In spite of their ghoulish nature, they are fiercely loyal to those that have shown them kindness, and are regarded as sons of Horus. Duende - Similar to the gnomes or goblins of Europe, these sinister faeries are supposed to be found in the woodlands of Mexico and Portugal, and to lead travelers astray using magical songs. They are also known to live inside the walls of houses, and to suddenly cut the toenails of unkempt children, sometimes taking the entire toe instead. Local human populations are terrified of the beings. Dueoksini - Appearing as horned humanoids, covered in roaring flames with long claws and red eyes, these Korean monsters rule over goblins and dokkaebi in their vicinity. They can cause hallucinations and madness in the humans around them, and are also well-known for viciously attacking and even eating innocent victims. Their forms often appear blurred because their true bodies are impossible for a human mind to perceive. Duergar - Unpleasant and antisocial, these hairy, dwarfish faeries are thought to have originally come from France and then migrated over to Britain with the Normans, and are well-known for the nuisance that they cause. They rearrange sign posts and push people down hills, as well as sometimes gathering in great numbers to lure humans off cliffs. Rarely seen during the day, these creatures are nocturnal. Dulhath - Arabian creatures, these djinn appear as humanoids that ride ostriches, and enjoy tricking humans into bartering away their lives, and particularly food supplies. They have excessively large mouths filled with needle-like teeth, and can produce hypnotic songs and sounds that can force travelers to kill themselves. Despite their frightening power, they are hunted by rukhs and other large birds, and terrified of the creatures because of this. Dullahan - Known to be the origin of the headless horseman myth, these Irish faeries carry their heads under their arms, and use a whip made from a human spinal chord as a weapon. They ride on dark black horses, and can move through walls and solid objects with ease. The only way to stop a charging dullahan is with pure gold metal. Dund - Usually appearing as nothing more than ghastly apparitions of a human torso bound to the saddles of phantom steeds, these hideous Hindu psychopomps trample through isolated villages at night and call out the names of all those that are destined to die. They resemble headless horsemen or dullahans, and anyone who hears their name called by the monsters will soon die. Dundas Island Blackfly - Growing to roughly five or six inches, these Canadian insects arrange themselves into enormous swarms to overwhelm living prey and feed on its flesh and blood. Their bodies are dark black with red heads and yellow bands on their abdomen, and they are known to be such tenacious hunters that they will not abandon potential prey unless they leave the island. The venom that they produce is potent enough to swiftly kill large cattle. Dundubhi - Armed with sharpened horns and brute strength, this monstrous demon is mentioned in the Ramayana (an Indian Hindu epic poem), which details how it was the embodiment of primal evil and was one of the servants of the rakshasa king known as Ravana. Its name, which translates as 'Drum' is thought to be reference to the monstrous bellowed emitted by the creature. Eventually its reign of terror was ended when a demigod called Vali killed it and hurled its carcass away into the mountains. Dungavenhooter - Lurking deep in the woodlands of North America, these terrestrial crocodile relatives lack mouths, but have pronounced nostrils instead. They are said to prey on drunken lumberjacks, jumping out at them and clubbing them to death with their tails until gases are produced. When this happens, the creature inhales the gas to gain nourishment. Dunnie - Mischievous and annoying despite their reputation as helpful spirits, garnered mostly due to influence from fictional sources, these Scottish faeries are known to play devious pranks such as shapeshifting into kelpies in an attempt to drown humans. Although their identification as faeries is usually accepted, there are some theories that they may have originally been the ghosts of bandits who operated on riversides, and are now cursed to guard their ill-gotten goods forever. Duphon - Found in mountainous regions across France, these shapeshifting faeries resemble humanoid owls, and often carry swords and body armor. They are pests and tricksters, braiding the manes of horses and kidnapping unwary women and children. When in human form, they are usually secluded individuals, and often make their homes in abandoned castles and derelict buildings. Duppy - Nocturnal spirits found in Jamaica, Africa and the Caribbean islands, these nocturnal spirits are considered to be the restless ghosts of those on which the correct rituals were not performed within three days of their burial, and are known to haunt people, causing either a feeling of unexplained heat or the sense that one's head is growing. They despise salt, and so eating this substance will repel them, and they can also be banished by wearing clothes inside out or exposing genitals. Dus - Either bizarre varieties of ghosts or demons, there is very little information available about these Celtic vampires, which are said to consume both the flesh and blood of their human victims. Their name (pronounced 'duce') roughly translates to 'spectre' in the local language, so it is reasonable to assume that they are either violent spirits or some other kind of incorporeal creature, possibly easily mistaken for true ghosts. Dusii - Originally descended from a divine being detailed in the Celtic mythology of Europe, and related to famous deities such as Pan and Faunus, these satyr-like demons are described as aerial entities that can assume physical forms to engage in sudden and often non-consensual sexual intercourse with both humans and animals. In later folklore, they have become linked with wild-men such as the Wodewose, as well as Magonians and faeries. They are believed to be closely related to incubi. Dust Bunny - Held together by static electricity, these small beings form underneath furniture and in other areas that are not regularly cleaned. Their bodies are formed of various types of detritus, such as dead skin or spider webs. They are capable of moving objects several times their own weight, as well as dissolving into dust when threatened. Dust Devil - In arid and sandy environments, these creatures are known to form from static electricity creating neurons inside dust particles. They are able to build and disintegrate themselves at will, and are often malevolent towards humans, viewing them as invaders in their territories. Dustdigger - According to modern fantasy literature, these monstrous creatures are to be found in arid desert areas, and resemble enormous starfish with tough exoskeletons and sharpened spines affixed to their five tendrils, as well as circular mouths lined with fangs in the middles of their bodies. They are ambush predators, and rely on prey moving onto their ambush sights so that they can snatch them using their tentacles. Over their lifetime, they will asexually reproduce, dividing into identical copies of themselves. Dvarapala - Originally thought to have been Tutelary Deities, these enormous creatures are usually depicted as giants or ogre-like warriors armed with maces called gadas, and are sometimes said to be related to gargoyles due to their common representation as architectural features in Buddhist and Hindu temples across Asia. They are usually placed at the entrances of temples and royal palaces in pairs, and modern representations sometimes show them as policemen or soldiers as opposed to demons. Dvergr - These dwarves are said to have been created by the Norse pantheon of gods in ancient times, to help build weapons and machines using their superior blacksmith skills. They can often be found living in underground areas with sources of heat, which they use to melt and shape the metal artifacts that they are constantly constructing. Unlike their more well-known cousins, they are capable of moving around in daylight without noticeable adverse effects. Dvorovoy - Inhabiting courtyards and gardens, these Russian faeries are known to befriend livestock and look after garden tools, though to be viciously spiteful towards any humans who might be interfering in their work. If this behavior is kept up by the human, then the creature will become malevolent, and make the livestock sick and the tools unusable. The only way to appease the angered faery is through use of a specific incantation. Dwarf - These small humanoids are thought to have been born from maggots that were chewing through the body of a monstrous frost giant in ancient Norse legend. Instead of chewing through flesh now, these creatures now mine endlessly through rock. They shy away from sunlight, because it will turn them to stone rapidly. Dwayyo - Resembling werewolves or dogmen, these monstrous North American predators appear as large wolves with the posture of humans, and were first recorded in modern literature in 1965. This report triggered an outbreak of mass hysteria that culminated in large groups of people congregating to hunt the beasts. They are thought to have a natural adversity with the snallygaster. Dybbuk - These malicious ghosts hail from Jewish culture, and will possess people to carry out their grudges and desires. They will only leave these bodies when they are exorcised or accomplish their objective, though can also inhabit inanimate objects such as wine boxes. Dydko - Resembling monstrous spiders with the heads and bodies of grotesque scarecrows, these demonic Polish bogeymen haunt cornfields and stalk children who spend too long away from home. Strangely, they are capable of moving through mirrors and reflective surfaces, and have been known to target those who are self-obsessed or vain. Dyn Hysbys - Apparently inhabited by the displaced souls of ancient druids, these Welsh magic users are similar to the Cunning Folk in that they mostly use their abilities to perform domestic tasks and help those in the community around them, but they are also considered to be able to heal people using charms and reveal unknown truths such as those pertaining to the future, love and death. There are three kinds of Dyn Hysbys, those who inherited their power, clerics, and students of esoterica. Dziwożona - Found in Russia and Europe, these semi-aquatic hags are said to lurk around swamps and to kidnap human children. They will then replace the missing child with a changeling-like creature, which will die before it reaches adulthood. However, parents have taken the measure of tying a red ribbon around the arms of their children to prevent this from happening. Dzoavits - Held to be responsible for solar eclipses in Native American folklore, these monstrous ogres have an affinity with flames and great heat, and are often known to kidnap children and unwary travelers. They feed on the flesh of their victims and are very hard to kill, and are often simply imprisoned in caves at the ends of the aforementioned myths. Dzolob - According to South American Mayan mythology, the main creator god created these violent beings before he produced humans, but destroyed them due to their obscene nature. They are large and strong, and are thought to be similar to the nephilim due to their cannibalistic and gigantic nature. Although most of them have been wiped out nowadays, some individuals still survive. Dzunukwa - Enormous ogres that are spoken of in the folklore of the Native Americans, these hairy humanoids are known to be mostly female, and to kidnap children that they catch. It is for this reason that they are considered bogeymen, and also due to their behavior of keeping their captives in large sacks. They are commonly seen with pursed lips, mimicking the sound of the wind blowing through the trees. E Bukura e Dheut - Mostly feminine in form, these supernaturally beautiful faeries are found in the Underworld as mentioned in Albanian mythology, and are usually regarded as tricksters despite often offering aid for vulnerable travelers. They have beautiful blonde hair and are often mistaken for angels due to the extreme power that they gain from use of enchanted clothing. If a male human steals a hair from the head of one of them, it will become his wife after he completes a series of tasks. Each Ceannan Dubh - Resembling a jet-black horse with fiery eyes, this ghostly creature was said to have a spear thrust through its chest, and to haunt the outskirts of a lake in the Irish locale of Rathlin, being so terrifying that the residents of the area refused to leave their houses after dark. One night, however, a young woman was late to get home and was chased by the zoomorphic phantom, scaling a wall to escape. In attempting to follow her, the spear was sent into its heart, killing it. Each Tened - Demonic Irish creatures that resemble horses at first glance, these creatures are thought to be related to kelpies, and will pursue those that they perceive as evil, tempting them to ride on their backs. If any foolish human does this, they will become stuck to the creature and will be unable to escape when they violently explode into flames and roast their victims. Each-Uisge - Akin to a kelpie but far more powerful and threatening, these creatures come from Scotland and other British Areas, where they will shapeshift into humans or horses in order to lure innocent victims into the water. As opposed to kelpies, these beasts only dwell in saltwater. Eachy - Known from British and Scottish folklore, these slimy aquatic humanoids are often mistaken for sea serpents because of their vaguely snakelike body shape. Their existence was first recorded in the year 1873, and several scientific expeditions have been launched the find the beasts since then. They appear to be mildly venomous, a trait that they use to kill mid-sized prey. Easton Goblin - Spoken of in the folklore Pennsylvania in North America, this phantom creature is said to have originally been a monk who used confessions to blackmail the local villagers. He was eventually hanged for beating one of his victims to death, though reanimated as a hideous goblin-like creature. The beast started to feast on the monks at his old monastery, which has since been abandoned. Ebajalg - Malignant air spirits, these monsters are found in the Northern European country named Estonia, and are said to relish in causing as much destruction and chaos as possible. They resemble whirlwinds, and have great physical strength as well as carrying various weapons from warriors that they have previously defeated. Ebu Gogo - Relic members of a supposedly long-extinct species of humans, these Indonesian hairy humanoids are only about 1.5 meters tall, and are known to steal food from human villages. They are said to be able to speak in their own guttural language, and to sometimes kidnap human children in the hope that they'll teach them how to cook. Due to hunting by humans, the creatures are much rarer today. Echeneis - Found mostly in the Indian Ocean, these tiny fish are magical variants of the modern-day remora, and are known to latch onto ships using their flat heads. Once they have done this, the vessel will become incapable of movement, remaining rooted in its place even through the highest storm. They are often summoned by dark magic users to delay proceedings around them. Echidna - Half nymph and half serpent, this monstrous Greek entity is supposed to be trapped in the Underworld, and is known to have the ability to hypnotise and poison her victims. She can shapeshift, gaining more heads and even massive wings at will, and is known to have been the mother to numerous other Greek monsters such as the legendary chimera. At the moment she is the lover of Typhon. Echo - Cursed to never be able to speak without repeating what she had previously heard, this mountain nymph was originally a consort of Zeus until she was cursed by Hera because of this. Eventually, she fell in love with Narcissus, but was unable to tell him how she felt and was forced to watch as he too was cursed. Eden Serpent - Although sometimes said to be nothing more than a snake misrepresented in the Bible, these reptilian creatures are actually four-legged dragons that have evolved to resemble snakes. They are highly venomous and intelligent, and are said to have tricked Adam and Eve into committing the 'Original Sin' in Judeo-Christian folklore. Edimmu - These monstrous ghosts are the souls of those of the Hindu faith who have not received a proper burial. They are usually incorporeal, and can possess those who break Hindu taboos. In order to appease one of these beasts, one must give their corpse a proper burial and funeral. Eel Hound - Nesting among marshes and beds of reeds, these hybrid monstrosities can usually be found serving packs of aquatic faeries such as Nixies and River Trolls, and are thought to be closely related to the extremely similar Dobhar-chú. In the wild, they serve as ambush predators, leaping from swampy areas to overwhelm their prey using pack hunting techniques, but when tamed their haunting cries can inspire their masters into killing frenzies. They may be genetically-modified Dobhar-chú. Eer-Moonan - Mentioned in the mythology of the Australian Aboriginal culture, these small hairy faeries resemble humanoids with the heads of echidnas or porcupines. They live high in trees and are mostly nocturnal, stalking and killing humans in their vicinity for unknown reasons. Égrégore - Thought to have originally been created by fallen angels, these malicious tulpas are produced from the collective thoughts of a large group of people, and share a symbiotic relationship with these hosts. They are first mentioned in French literature, in which they are sometimes thought to be synonyms for the Grigori, though this is widely accepted to be false. If they are out of human contact for a large period of time, they will become uncontrollably powerful and dangerously insane. Eidolon - Appearing as a spectral representation of either an endangered or dying person, these strange ancient Greek ghosts have been known to gather together in large groups to attract the attention of the living. Although they usually represent an imperiled person who is still alive, particularly powerful members of the species have been known to attach themselves to a particular location and remain after the death of their creator. Einherjar - The spirits of valiant Viking warriors that died in battle, these beings were taken to Valhalla by the valkyries, where they regularly feast and prepare for various future battles. Although this is not their purpose, there have been reports of the beings appearing on Earth, and mistaking modern technology for dark magic. These incidents happen rarely, though are often disastrous for those around them. Eintykára - Remarkable stingless bees that are found in Paraguay, these insects produce hallucinogenic honey and are capable of swarming together into a humanoid shape. Using this ability, they are known to have taken the form of a beautiful young man and had children with several villagers, and their golden-haired descendants can thus be seen today. Ek Chapat - Found in Mexico's Yucatán, this bizarre Mayan aberration is said to resemble a monster with seven heads and one hundred legs, and is known to live in dense jungles where it waits for travelers to pass it, ambushing them and forcing them to answer impossibly-difficult riddles when they do so. If they fail to guess the correct answer, the beast will skin them before devouring them. Nobody has ever solved the riddles, but it is said that they will gain supernatural power if they do. Ekek - Filipino shapeshifters, these monstrous creatures will assume a winged form at night and feed on the flesh and blood of human victims around them. They use a long proboscis to drain the blood from the unborn children in the wombs of the sleeping woman they attack. Their name comes from the 'ek-ek' sound that they make when feeding. Ekuneil - Resembling large black snakes with specially-adapted forked tails, these Mayan creatures are found in Central America, where they live a parasitic lifestyle involving constantly searching out breastfeeding mothers and flying into their houses when they are located. Once they have found their prey, they will use their forked tails to block the nostrils of their victims and drain the milk from their breasts. They are related to other serpents named 'Xchail Can'. El Bú - Terrifying avian humanoids resembling anthropomorphic owls with black feathers and red eyes as large as soup bowls, these lethal Iberian boogeymen are known from the folklore of the historical Spanish Castile region, and are said to clamber in through the windows of children in order to kidnap them and drag them back to their secluded dens using their sharp claws. To scare stubborn children into sleeping, parents would open the windows and loudly call for the monsters to come to them. El Busgosu - Detailed in the Spanish mythology of Asturias and Cantabria, this satyr-like elemental is described as a humanoid creature with the hairy legs of a goat and horns, but is also sometimes represented as resembling more common faeries like elves. In Cantabria, it is said to be a helpful spirit which guides lost shepherds home and helps to mend farm cabins, but in Asturias it is a Leshy-like entity which will give tuberculosis to woodcutters and loggers who enter its territory. El Cazador - Mentioned in the folklore of Colombia, this demonic undead entity is believed to be the damned soul of a man who devoted his entire life to hunting deer, and was tempted away from his local church during Holy Week by the potentially demonic apparition of a lone deer. He chased the animal, and his baying hounds followed him, but he immediately literally swallowed by the mountains because of his unfaithfulness. Now, he roams the woods as an undead menace. El Cucuy - Acting as a sort of boogeyman in countries such as Mexico and Spain, this creature will arrive in a town and shapeshift into an unassuming human form, then it will kill anyone that it deems to be evil or morally corrupt. These monsters are vulnerable to direct sunlight, as it will cause them to develop a severe sunburn-like affliction within seconds. El Cuero - Appearing as a cowhide-like entity with eyes surrounding its edges, this frightening creature lurks in various South American lakes. It is described as a voracious predator of animals and humans alike, surging out of the water like a crocodile to engulf prey in its flat body. It has a long barbed tail, with which it punctures its victims and removes their internal organs, though the presence of this has led to speculation that it may represent a primitive stingray. El Diablo en Pañales - Targeting inebriated humans and other people who may not be as aware of their surroundings as usual, this frightening Mexican shapeshifter takes on the form of a baby or infant, and emits piercing cries to attract the attention of its victims. These people will then see the infant and pick it up, wanting to save it from abandonment, and it will grow steadily heavier as they carry it. Eventually it will morph into a pig-like monster, frightening its victim. El Diañu Burlón - Often compared to satyrs or fauns due to its hairy body and goat-like legs, this mischievous demonic faery is mentioned in the Spanish mythology of Asturias, and is said to take great pleasure in frightening and disorienting solitary travelers late at night. It is said to spy on naked women with the intention of sleeping with them, and is also prone to playing pranks on the people around it just to prove its existence. Like other demons, it can be repelled by the name of God. El Gentil - Emerging from the waters of the Boca de Pascuales area in Mexico to kidnap humans who dare to remain on the beaches after ten o'clock at night, this amphibious humanoid entity is thought to be related to merfolk, and is usually described as a two meter tall masculine being with green scales. Instead of physically attacking its victims, it will instead attempt to lure them into the water, inevitably resulting in death by drowning, after which their bodies are never found. El Gritón - Widely known in Honduras though also present in Columbia and Brazil, these nebulous spirits have never actually been seen but have been heard many times, due to their terrifying behaviour of emitting blood-curdling screeches from atop mountainous areas. Some have speculated that they may be the lost ghosts of explorers who were killed by falling down ravines, and now scream in despair, but it has also been suggested that they are demons feeding off fear and possibly stealing souls. El Juy-Juy - Found in the jungles of South American regions such as Argentina and Bolivia, these deceptively beautiful plants form enormous canopies with their stunning petals, under which animals and humans commonly seek shade. However, the plants are capable of emitting clouds of soporific gas, which sends their prey into a deep sleep before the carnivorous plants send down more blossoms armed with bladed suckers to drain their victims of bodily fluids, leaving nothing more than a skeleton. El Lagarto de Oro - On the Atlantic Coast of Honduras, there lies a cave in the enclave of Piedra Blanca which is inhabited by an enormous golden-skinned reptile. It is said that Spanish soldiers from the era of the conquest were enticed by the promise of gold deep beneath the cave, and their drills entered a large opening with a lagoon of green water within it on Holy Thursday. An giant golden creature resembling a crocodile was present at the bottom of the lagoon, and might still be. El Padre sin Cabeza - After attempting to defend the Central Americans during the Spanish Conquest, the Nicaraguan man who would go on to become this wrathful ghost was decapitated and his head was rolled through the streets of the city of León on February 6th, 1550. After this humiliating death, he haunts the streets of the city, bewitching those who stay out too late and leading them to church, where he will show them his lack of a head and bleeding hands, rendering them mute for several days. El Petizo - Savage shadow people, these obscure Argentinian boogeymen attack lone travelers by throwing them from their vehicles and inflicting knife-like wounds all over their bodies, before attempting to drag them away by the hair. Witnesses have attempted to shoot and stab the shadowy shapes, but this has proven ineffective. Strangely, these black demons will vanish immediately if they are confronted by any other humans aside from their intended victims. El Picudo - Mentioned in the Spanish folklore of South America's Honduras, these chupacabra-like monstrosities are said to resemble dogs with the heads of pigs as well as long proboscises with which they can drain the blood of animals and humans alike after they have been injected with some kind of sedative through the same bizarre organ. They are known to silently slip into houses which are left unguarded or with open doors. Immune to normal weaponry, they can only be hurt by blessed bullets. El Silbón - Appearing as an incredibly tall and grotesque humanoid figure, this terrifying Venezuelan ghost is thought to have originally been a teen who was executed for killing his wife-beating father. It now emits a telltale whistle to foretell the deaths of nearby womanizers or drunkards, and will place their mutilated corpses in a satchel with the bones of its father. El Tunche - This wrathful ghost is said to wander the paths and undergrowth of the Peruvian rainforest, collecting the souls of explorers and travelers who die in the forests. It often makes a whistling sound to try and trick people into whistling back, and giving away their exact location. If a potential victim is on 'good terms' with the flora and fauna of the forest, the creature will just scare them away, though it will kill them if they seek to damage the ecosystem. El Yankopek - Literally living at the bottoms of bottles and pitchers, these irritating Mayan household faeries are found in Yucatán and Central America, where they enjoy causing poltergeist-like havoc around households if they are not given water to quench their thirst. Among the pranks that they play are causing glasses to smash, making small but essential items disappear completely, and even directly manipulating the hands of children as to force them to break bottles and jars. Elbow Witch - Very little is known about these Native American creatures save for their viciously bladed elbows with which they kill human prey. They have poor eyesight, and local legends recounts a tale of a group of them being unable to find their human captive and accidentally killing each other instead. Eldjötnar - Serving the powerful elemental giant known as Surtr, these monstrous creatures dwell in the fiery realm known as Muspelheim in Norse mythology, and are said to be destined to destroy Asgard and the Bifrost during the events of Ragnarok. As their name suggests, they are thought to be closely related to the icy Jötunns, but are far more savage than these other beings. Eleanba Wunda - Mysterious spirits known from the Australian mythology of New South Wales, these massive creatures are regarded with a vague sense of dread by the local Aborigine population, and are said to leave enormous footprints on the ground that seem to suggest that they only have two toes on each foot. Little else is known about them, but some have suggested that they may be related to the Spinifex Man because of their similar foot structure. Elemental - Embodying a particular element of the universe that we live in, these humans are formed from a random genetic mutation that gives them a greatly enhanced soul compared to others. This allows them to control and generate particular conditions depending on their environment and nurture during their birth and childhood. These powers often manifest as pyrokinesis or weather control. Elephantiger - Bulky and powerful mesonychids, these predators are known to exist in small groups in the forests and grasslands of India. They have faces and torsos resembling those of tigers, even mimicking their stripes for camouflage, and heavy legs that are adapted for walking long distances through flat terrain. They are said to have been used as the mounts for the historical king of India known as Phan. Elf - Beautiful faeries, these creatures have been known to live among humans since ancient Norse mythology, and are said to be a neutral race. This means that they are capable of either helping humans or seriously hindering them, though are inclined to create mischief. They are often found in intricate networks of underground tunnels in Scandinavian countries, and are said to be able to mesmerize humans using only their voices, and to use this ability to seduce people and lead them astray. Elim - Sometimes simply referred to as holy trees, these exceedingly strange angels resemble bushes or trees with jewels on their leaves and holy fire covering their entire bodies. They are used by the Judaeo-Christian God to deliver messages regarding the Second Coming or even the Apocalypse itself, and will often subtly protect messiahs or prophets, appearing to check on them in dreams. Ellén Trechend - Said to have laid waste to Ireland before it was defeated by a legendary hero, this bizarre three-headed creature is either regarded as an enormous vulture or possibly a monstrous dragon. A story involving the Sidhe releasing a horde of monsters on Samhain, including vultures that were led by a three-headed being, possibly references this creature. Ellengassen - Covered in reddish grey fur, these mighty creatures are relatives of the supposedly-extinct ground sloths, and are found in deep cave systems across Argentina and South America. They have strong armored plates on their skin beneath their fur, and have sometimes been shown to be resistant to bullets. Ellepige - Dwelling in densely-forested or mountainous areas across Scandinavia, these Norse faeries are thought to be closely related to elves or elementals, and usually appear as humanoids fashioned from mist. They can be hostile or benevolent, depending on how they are treated, but they are usually happy to interact with the surrounding human population. Elohim - Regarded as members of the same species as the Judaeo-Christian God, these powerful beings were last seen in the Middle East during the very early days of Judaeo-Christian worship. They were believed to act as divine judges or possibly fill the role of angels before they were created, and appear to have some degree of adversity with the Annunaki or pagan gods. Modern scholars debate whether they are really a separate species, or if they are simply just a mistranslated word for God. Eloko - The wrathful spirits of the local ancestors, these dwarfish ghosts seem to have a grudge against those living in their African forest habitat. They protect the plants and animals of their forests viciously, and have a snout filled with sharp teeth that are perfect for engulfing human bodies. If anyone enters the forest without using strong magic, they will never encounter any animals or fruit, and will likely never be seen again. Eltanin Antenna - Found mostly on the seafloors of South America and Antarctica, this strange sea-sponge resembles a radio antenna, and seems to display some anomalous properties. These include the ability to disrupt electromagnetic waves around them, therefore disabling people from taking clear photographs of them. Elverkonge - Found in thick forests and around fast-moving rivers in Europe, these Danish faeries are sometimes confused with the similarly-named Erlkönig, and rule over elves in their vicinity. They are responsible for organizing the uncanny dances that take place on top of ancient burial mounds, and are believed to have a limited ability to control electricity and produce illness in local human populations. Elwetritsch - Found in small numbers in the temperate forests of Germany, these relatives of chickens have evolved two feather 'ears' on the backs of their heads that are used for display. This adaptation has resulted in a mythological representation as an antlered bird. Emela-Ntouka - These territorial mammals are closely related to the prehistoric arsinotherium, and bear a superficial resemblance to a ceratopsian dinosaur. They will retreat into water when disturbed by humans or other animals, though are fiercely aggressive towards elephants for currently unknown reasons. Their tails are used for fat storage, and will hang down when the animal is relaxed but will become rigid when the creature is threatened. Emere - Capable of traveling between the physical and the spirit world at will, these magically mutated children are spoken of in the folklore of Africa. They can teleport and are telepathic, though will often die on a day of extreme joy, such as their marriage or graduation. Emite - Possessing bizarrely domed skulls, these ancient giants are spoken of in the religious texts of the Hebrew faith, and are likely the result of humans and greys interbreeding in a similar manner to angels producing nephilim. Their name is translated as 'dreaded ones' or simply 'horror', which is due to their cannibalistic and brutal tendencies. Empath - Capable of detecting the emotions and feelings of those around them and experiencing them as if they were their own, these humans are of a slightly different genetic variation, allowing them to have limited psychic powers present since birth. They are not telepaths, though they can sometimes hear snapshots of people's thoughts and immediate reactions to situations. Inexperienced empaths are much more vulnerable to demonic or ghostly possession due to their emotional attunement. Empusa - Found in and around Greece, these monsters resemble hoofed canid hybrids in their true form, though can shapeshift into beautiful young women to seduce their human prey. They will attack people in their sleep, and feed on their blood and flesh. They also act as servants for the goddess Hecate. Empyrean - Adorned with holy fire, these beautiful angels dwell at the very highest points of Earth's atmosphere, and constantly fly around the entrance to Heaven and God's throne. Their wings are said to be made of pure light, and to provide all light and fire in the universe in the Judaeo-Christian cosmology. In their true forms, they are enormous in size. Encantado - These shapeshifters originate from the rivers and lakes of South America, and have a notorious love for parties and sexual intercourse. This lustful behavior will often result in them kidnapping humans, and reducing the inhibitions of those around them. They can often be found venturing up onto land to join in with human parties, and can be distinguished from true humans by the blowhole on their forehead. Encanto - Thought to either be similar to deities or dryads and nymphs, these elemental faeries represent common elements such as earth, air, water and fire, and usually dwell in large natural structures associated with their respective elements. They are known to bring blessings upon those who are respectful of their element, but will viciously curse those who seek to abuse or damage them. Encerrados - Resembling large humanoids with thick and grey skin, these monstrous ogres are found in isolated mountain ranges across Chile and South America, and are thought to be closely related to the horrific invunche. They will kidnap children and vulnerable travelers, and hand them over to evil magic users who use them for hideous experiments. Enchanter - These powerful magic users have an affiliation with music and song, and can use these art forms to cast intricate spells. Any member of a sentient race can learn to become one of these sorcerers. However, the children of people who have previously gone down this path are more likely to inherit natural magic abilities. Enenra - These Japanese monsters are made from smoke, and reside in and around bonfires. When they emerge from their flaming homes, they will take on a humanoid form, and can only be seen by those who are pure of heart. Enfield Horror - Alien creatures, these three-legged aberrations were bought to Earth by ultraterrestrials in the early 1970s, and have been existing in small numbers here ever since. They are hostile towards humans, and can chase them down at amazing speeds despite their odd biology. They have glowing red eyes, and will often trigger magnetic anomalies or poltergeist activity. English Knucker - Roughly the size of a crocodile, these mid-sized dragons are found in the lakes and wells of Britain, and were mentioned in the ancient poem Beowulf. They will consume livestock and even sometimes villagers the wander too close to their habitat, and some hunters have taken to eradicating the monsters using poisoned food sources. Enkebit - Found in the Central Anatolia region of Asia, these Turkish demons resemble hideous humanoids with golden fez hats and large holes in their right hands, and are known to attack sleeping human victims with the intention of strangling them. However, if the would-be victims manage to wake up in time and can remove the demons' fezzes, they will survive the attack. Very little else is known about these bizarre and obscure relatives of incubi. Enkidu - Mentioned as a single entity in the Middle Eastern Epic of Gilgamesh, these hairy creatures are thought to be the descendants of the eponymous faithful companion to the titular hero. They are related to sasquatches and other wildmen, though are capable of shapeshifting into a human form in order to blend in with society. Like their progenitor, they act as fiercely loyal guardians to those that show kindness towards them. Entare - Appearing as humanoid lions in their true forms, these shapeshifting monsters are found in the grasslands and forests of Uganda. They are known to control the feline predators in their general vicinity, and have been responsible for several inexplicable attacks by lions on humans. This control is thought to be created by pheromones, which seem to make humans sick. Entulla - Thought to be distantly related to the yale, these extremely wild and dangerous animals live in the thickets and undergrowth of African deserts. They resemble antelopes with slightly canine body shapes, and are capable of using their horns like saws to cut down trees. The only way that an entulla can be killed is if it gets its horns stuck in a tight space. Eoduksini - Usually appearing as formless masses of dark shadows, these Korean demons will swiftly grow in size if they are observed, though will shrink and eventually disappear if ignored. Physical attacks by the creatures have not been recorded, and it is speculated that they feed on fear. They are thought to be distantly related to shadow people and other elementals of darkness and night. Epiales - Lurking in shadowy areas within Greek households, these hairy black demons are known from ancient tradition as a primary cause of sudden and inexplicable nightmares and sleep paralysis. There are suspicions that they may be related to succubi and incubi, though these claims are yet to be validated. Epimēliad - Protecting flocks of sheep and orchards of apple trees, these beautiful Greek nymphs resemble humanoids with tree-like characteristics and strikingly white hair, which often appears as either apple tree leaves or sheep's wool. They are also known to have guarded the tree on which the legendary golden fleece was kept. Equuleus - Related to pterippus and the peryton, these winged animals are found in the plains and mountains of Greece, and they are thought to be the descendants of the legendary Pegasus. Some scholars have suggested that they may actually be tulpas created from belief in the supernatural properties of the constellation of the same name. Erchitu - Cursed by demons, these Italian creatures are the transformed souls of people who have committed serious sins, such as homicide or rape. They resemble humanoid bulls with white fur and blazing candles at the ends of their long horns, and are said to stand outside households at night and bellow. This noise will be heard by all those who are in the house, and will foretell the impending death of the head of the house. Erelim - With names literally translating as 'courageous', these warrior angels are commonly overlooked in the grand hierarchy of heavenly beings, and are in charge of distributing justice on Earth. They were first heard about from ancient Jewish traditions, and are still seen in some crime-ridden cities today, where they are often mistaken for vigilantes. Eretik - Created when a person is reanimated by a dark magic user after being possessed, these psychic Russian vampires can also be created from the bodies of religious heretics, those who sleep on graves, sell their souls to demons or make 'inappropriate' noises in public bath-houses. The vampires will immediately start consuming human flesh and blood, using their deadly stares to inflict a withering disease. They live in dry riverbeds where they host Black Masses at night in Spring and Autumn. Eretnik - Russian vampires, these man eating monsters are formed when sorcerers who do not follow the Christian church are converted into vampires through being bitten by a preexisting bloodsucker. They are known to terrorise entire villages at a time, viciously killing any and all humans that they can find. In order to finally defeat the beast, they must be staked through the heart and then burnt into ash. Erinyes - Monitoring complaints brought against other people by mortals, these wrathful angels are thought to originally dwell in the Underworld, as stated by Greek mythology. They have the wings of dragons and serpents in place of hair, and their touch can cause insanity and slow death. Despite their dangerous nature, their actions are controlled by a judicial court in the Underworld. Erlkönig - These German faeries lurk in dense woodlands, and will try to lure unwary children into the forests, where they are never seen again. There is speculation that the lore surrounding the modern tulpa known as Slenderman may be based on these creatures. Scarily, they have the ability to make themselves only visible to their victim, and no-one else around them, which leaves the children defenseless. Erote - Often found following beings such as Aphrodite or Eros, these strange faeries are often confused with cupids, which are much more friendly and forgiving. Each erote embodies a different element of love, such as longing or unrequited love, and has the ability to induce these feelings in those around them. It is said that ingesting their blood will cause eternal love and lust for all those in one's vicinity. Erqigdlet - Also called 'Adlets' due to confusion with a different kind of supernatural creature, these human hybrid monstrosities were, according to the Inuit folklore of Canada and Greenland, born from the unison of a dark magic user and a large red dog, and resemble humanoids with the legs and feet of canines. They are cannibalistic and demonic, and are capable of running at extreme speeds. Despite this, they are unlikely to come out as the victors in confrontations with humans. Ershaj - Sometimes called 'goblin snakes', these strange creatures live in the caves of Southeastern Europe, and are feared because of their association with malevolent faeries. They are known to wrap themselves around hapless victims and then plunge into their chests in order to eat their heart. Sometimes, however, these victims will instead be used as incubators for the reptiles' parasitic young. Erymanthian Boar - Massive and terrifying, this unearthly creature was often sent to Earth by wrathful gods in ancient Greek times to destroy targets. It had enormous tusks and impregnable hide, and is sometimes said to be very incarnation of Ares. However, it was killed as the fourth labor of Heracles. Espumeru - Small goblin-like faeries, these Austrian beings live on the coasts and shores of various rocky beaches all across the country, and are known to collect seashells to craft trinkets and bracelets. The different colors of these charms will signify the conditions of the sea for a particular day. If sailors venture into caves on the cliffs during storms, the spirits will protect them. Estrie - Preying on sleeping Jewish citizens across the Middle-East, these shapeshifting vampires usually take on the forms of beautiful human women, though sometimes resemble monstrous owls. They act like succubi, seducing and then draining the blood of unsuspecting victims. Unlike other vampires, they can easily walk on holy ground, and can be killed by burying them after stuffing their mouths with dirt. Ethiopian Death Bird - Found in the deep caves and caverns of their namesake country, these massive animals are not birds but rather vampire bats. They feed on the large populations of goatherds that live in the area, slowly draining them of blood over several days until they die. Therefore, they are greatly feared despite their small size. Ethiopian Dragon - Described as being so massive that it could swallow elephants whole with no problem, this monstrous African dragon appears more mammalian than its reptilian kin. It has a face like that of a warthog, and wings that resemble those of pterosaurs. Due to their massive size, they hibernate among large mountains for most of their lives, and will only hunt for 15 years of their 100 year lifespan. Ethiopian Pegasus - Related to the pterippus, these winged horses live in the arid grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa, and are thought to be descendants of the legendary Pegasus. They have golden wings and fur, and have two long horns on their forehead. Their herds are commonly found on the shores of the Red Sea, and were described as living there by Pliny the Elder. Etiäinen - A form of maintaining life and soul mobility after death, according to Finnish lore these beings are created when a magic user deliberately expels their soul from their body and allows it to move around on its own. This usually results in a sort of ghostly doppelgänger arriving at places before its host does, and it has sometimes been known to continue doing this after the host dies. Ettercap - Sometimes thought to be derived varieties of Asian spider spirits, these creatures now live in the forests of Northern England, though were supposedly accidentally bought over on cargo boats. They resemble humanoid spiders, and have tough purple skin and venomous fangs, and were first discovered in the process of the creation of modern fantasy literature. Their webs are large enough to ensnare a large horse, and are found mostly in tree canopies, where they are positioned to trap winged faery species. Ettin - Spoken of in Norse and British folklore, these massive giants have two heads and are known to actively seek out and eat human prey. They are thought to be related to frost giants that have evolved to live further South across the world. Although they may appear threatening, they can be outfitted with ease, and the two heads have a habit of arguing with each other. Euroa Beast - Most closely resembling a bulldog-faced canine with flippers covered in thick fur, this 30ft long aquatic beast lives in the swamps of its namesake Australian locale, and caused considerable panic after it first appeared in 1890. Hunting parties were sent into the marshes to track the beast, and they witnessed the beast moving around in thick reeds and vanishing into hollow tree trunks. A line of large, webbed footprints were found in the bunyip-like beast's habitat. European Man-Horse - Sighted multiple times in Britain and Ireland, this strange creature is said to have a body like a horse or a deer, and the face of a human. It will chase cars, or simply stand in front of them and block their path. It has been suggested that this animal is either a supernatural being or a derived primate. Euryale - Whilst gorgons and medusae walk around on two legs, these rare variants slither with a long serpent tail. Their gaze can turn people into stone, and then their powerful magic capabilities will animate the statues to act as guards. Despite their extremely deadly abilities, they mostly live in small groups in underground chamber, where they are rarely seen by humans. Eurynomos - Sometimes thought to be related to wendigos, these ancient Greek demons dwell in the bowels of the Underworld, and eat the flesh and muscle of corpses that pass through those areas. They have dark blue skin with long fangs and claws, and are said to wear small cloaks fashioned out of vulture feathers and skins. Despite their bulky figures, they are surprisingly fast moving when hunting living prey. Ewah - Consuming human dreams and souls, these feline demons live in underground tunnels dotted around North America, and were first mentioned in Cherokee folklore. The sight of them is enough to cause complete and irreversible insanity, and this same effect will be generated in those that the creatures feed off. They are thought to fill the role of the alpha wampus cat, seeing as they have the power to control the aforementioned beasts. Exorcist - Expelling demons and other malevolent spiritual entities from the humans around them, these benevolent magic users are fairly common nowadays, especially among the ranks of the Catholic Church. Due to the stigma and scientific disbelief associated with possession, the healers are usually forced to operate underground as parts of informal businesses. Fachan - This truly bizarre aberration roams the highlands of Scotland and Ireland, moving strangely quickly despite only having a single leg. It is known to have one eye in the middle of its head, and to carry a vicious chain as a weapon. There are stories of it deliberately destroying entire fields filled with human crops, and it is said that the sight of the creature can induce sudden heart attacks. Faduah - Believed to have been created by the Judeo-Christian God as an experiment before he created humankind, these aggressive humanoids are formed from large masses of plants and roots. They are rooted to the ground via a stem growing from their bellybutton, and will die if this stem is severed. Fafnir - Resembling a monstrous serpent with venomous breath, this beast leaves all land and life forms that it comes into contact with withered and wasted. It is said that it was once a proud, mining dwarf who came into contact with a cursed hoard of treasure, and was doomed to forever guard it in a monstrous form. From the same mythology, the allegation that an ancient Norse hero slew the beast comes, which many hunters dearly hope to be true. Fair Folk - Truly malicious creatures that stubbornly refuse to live up to their name, these shapeshifting faeries feed off the emotions and chaos that their unpredictable actions cause within human populations. They are capable of teleporting and manipulating time and space, and are known to always leave circular structures or carvings in areas that they do this in. Fairybug - These small insects are found across the world in well forested areas, and are often mistaken for magical creatures because of their upright posture. They feed on smaller insects, as well as nectar from flowers. Fallen Angel - Rejecting the Judaeo-Christian God and falling from Heaven, these angelic beings are notable for their pallid features and ashy wings, and sometimes have demonic horns in the place of halos. They are known to behave as seducers or accusers among human populations, and enjoy fathering nephilim with human lovers. Some of them are thought to have left Heaven of their own accord, though others are said to have been expelled. False Prophet of Babylon - Feeding on people's devotion to religion, this hideous creature is said to appear at the end of the world, and use lies and deception to convince people to commit sins such as murder. It is capable of shapeshifting into any form that it prefers, and is also able to control monsters and demons. Though invulnerable to conventional weapons, it can be killed by a cypress branch wielded by a 'true servant of God'. Falugue - Perverse Spanish parasites found in Catalonia and the surrounding areas, these minuscule creatures usually resemble nothing more than dust particles, and normally dwell in sea-caves. They enter the bodies of human hosts through the nose, ears or eyes and will devour the inner part of the ear, rendering their victims permanently deaf. Some researchers have suggested that they are closely related to Nitus, possibly even being the female variants of the same species. Familiar - These shapeshifting creatures are born to serve magic users such as witches or wiccans, and can assume both the form of a human and a specific animal. They must obey the every command of their masters (though will usually be good friends with them as well), and can be killed using anything that would kill a regular human. Fanampitoloho - Guarded against through various rituals in Madagascan funeral rites, these seven-headed serpents resemble the classic hydra, and are known to sprout from the bodies of the deceased. It is said that the soul of the dead person will become a small dragon, and will eventually grow into one of these monsters if it is kept isolated away from its family members. Fangalobolo - With a height of 4 foot and a wingspan of up to 6 foot, these monstrous humanoid bats stalk the jungles of Madagascar, and are known to descend upon travelers at night. They will savagely maul their prey before dragging them back into their underground nests. There is speculation that they may be related to the Indonesian ahool, despite being far better suited for moving on land. Fanskapet - Wandering the forests of Sweden, these mid-sized hairy humanoids were first recorded when a photo was taken of an individual in 2011. They are semi-intelligent like trolls, and seem to share a physiology with the famous Scandinavian monsters, once again suggesting a relationship between the two groups of creatures. Fantasy Phasmid - First allegedly witnessed by in the North American state of Wisconsin in 2012, this hideous insect resembles a giant phasmid or stick insect, but has four more legs than a regular member of this naturally-occurring group and is much faster. After further investigation, it was revealed that the photograph taken of the animal was a hoax, and that the monstrous insect must be a tulpa, if it is to exist at all. Faoladh - Originally born when an ancient saint cursed a group of Pagan Irishmen for mocking their ceremonies, these shapeshifters are kindly and repentant, but are compelled to change into werewolves for extended periods of seven years. They retain the ability to speak while in wolf form, and are usually known to aid wounded travelers and protect children. When they are coming close to dying of old age, they have been known to seek out Judaeo-Christian priests to ask for last rites. Far Darrig - These Irish faeries wear red clothing and caps, and play dark mischief on the people around them, which often includes replacing children with changelings. As well as their humanoid form, they are also sometimes seen as rat-like creatures with dark fur and long snouts. They are thought to be associated with the onset of nightmares in a household. Farasi Bahari - Grazing on seaweed off the coasts of Africa, these emerald-colored horses only emerge onto land on certain nights of the year, and horse breeders will leave their prized mares in these coastal locations in the hope that mating will occur. If it does, hybrid foals will be born with supernatural strength and endurance, as well as a slightly green coat of hair. Farfadet - Found all throughout France but most common in the regions of Vendée and Poitou, these grotesque faeries are thought to be similar to diminutive leprechauns or imps, being roughly half a meter tall and often seen either naked or wearing tattered brown clothes. They are usually helpful, performing agricultural tasks in exchange for offerings of milk or cream, but can also be mischievous, creating elf-locks in horses' manes. Strangely, they will be frightened away by too much kindness. Farkaskoldus - Quietly patrolling Hungarian villages at night in search of victims to lie on top of and drain of blood before fleeing back to their graves when the Sun rises, these shapeshifting vampiric undead are created when a werewolf feeds on the flesh of an executed criminal. During the daytime, their corpses will not have visible signs of decay, and will instead be filled with fresh blood. In order to destroy a Farkaskoldus, they must be staked through the heart and burnt to ashes. Farlander - These dinosaur-like humanoids are capable of shapeshifting into human form in order to camouflage themselves in society, but will often be found as members of street gangs. They are able to leap large distances, and have deadly claws on their feet. Farmersville Green Man - Described as having a structure like a sombrero hat seemingly fused to its head by rubbery green skin, this bizarre little ultraterrestrial being was seen in May of 1913 in its namesake North American Texas locale when a family was chopping corn in their garden before hearing their dogs barking at something. It turned out that it was a small alien humanoid no more than 18 inches tall, and it appeared terrified before the dogs tore it apart. Its remains were lost. Fatlips - Lurking among ruins and in Scottish castles, these haggish faeries are associated with hermits that dwell in the isolated locales, and are known to tidy the abodes when the hermits are asleep or away. They keep the ground dry by stamping heavily on the ground with their tough iron boots. Faun - Found in the woodlands of Italy and Europe, these faeries appear as hybrids of humans and goats, and are often heard playing pipes and flutes. Although they behave rather foolishly, they are known to lead humans out of the forest and away from potential danger using the beautiful music that they create. Fauni Ficarii - Bloodthirsty evil Sicilian forest spirits, these ancient Italian faeries usually inhabit fig trees, and are known to assume the forms of nuns when they are seen by humans. Some sources suggest that they are instead more closely related to the Dusii or Satyrs, seeing as 'fig' was slang for female genitalia in Ancient Greek culture, and Satyrs are known for their sexual appetites. They are sometimes said to be so hideous in appearance that they can cause women to miscarry. Faunus - Horned forest beings, these powerful creatures are equitable with the idea of an alpha satyr or faun. A single member of this species is usually found ruling over forests where there is a satyr or faun population, which has led to confusion between them and Pan. In reality, Pan is a deity, and the faunus only act as emissaries to him. Fayette - Thought to be the descendants of Ancient Greek nymphs who escaped the advance of Christianity in the Mediterranean, these French faeries normally resemble much smaller versions of their past selves, and behave much like other faeries, guarding caves and forests and replacing human children with changelings. At night, travellers are advised to sing loudly so they're not mistaken for threats by the faeries. By day, the Fayettes take the forms of moles and enjoy ravaging human gardens. Fear Dorcha - Appearing as faceless beings covered in shadows, these Irish spirits are said to prey on the sleeping psyche of female victims. The exact details of how they do this is unknown, though there are reports of the victims seeing moving shadows in the corners of their rooms and sat at the ends of their beds. There is speculation that these entities may be related to night hags, or possibly slendermen. Fear Entity - Entering the minds of their hosts, these parasitic beings are purely psychic in composition, but take on the forms of their victims' worst fears in order to feed on the emotional response that it generates. Once enough fear has been generated, the monsters can take on physical form to kill their prey. However, some of them possess human bodies, and they can be killed using a weapon blessed by a deity whilst in this state. Fear Gorta - Resembling emaciated human figures, these Irish spirits will wander the roads and grasslands of Europe as harbingers of famine and plague. They will seek out passers-by and ask for favors or gifts of food, and will sometimes spare that person from the disaster to come if they are given this. Feathered Serpent - Despite their name, these creatures are not true snakes, but rather modern day dinosaurs that can be found in South America. They have dexterous forelimbs that can be used to grab prey, and rarely attack humans. Some jungle tribes apparently identified the creatures with local deities. Fée Marraine - Behaving in an extremely atypical manner when compared with other faeries, these beings are often referred to as 'fairy godmothers' and are mentioned heavily in classic fairy-tales. They are helpful and provide mentoring to young children that they accompany throughout their lives, and can use powerful magic spells to grant wishes and make life easier for people in difficult positions. There is some speculation that they may originally have been the ghosts of deceased parents or r Fei - Appearing similar to a large ox with a single eye on its forehead and the tail of a coiling serpent, this monstrous creature is said to live in various mountains in Chinese folklore. When it moves over grass, it withers and dies, and it causes any water it crosses to evaporate instantly. Its appearance is said to be an omen of worldwide disaster and plague. Felixstowe Fire Demon - Despite their name, these alien beings are ultraterrestrials rather than demons, and were first observed in their namesake English town in 1965 by a group of young victims. They seem to display telepathic abilities and hypnosis, and are covered in eternally-burning orange flames. Strange burns were left on the body of one of the witnesses, who also was said to have gone into a trance-like state. Fenghuang - This roughly peacock sized bird is known from China and other areas of Asia. They are relatives of geese and ducks, and will hunt small animals such as snakes by kicking them to death. Their beautiful feathers have contributed to their mythological following. Fénnid- Usually aristocrats and Irish nobles who have not yet inherited any land or fortune, these nomadic shapeshifters are akin to werewolves, and form lackluster bands to protect villages from witches and evil spirits. If they are captured and interrogated, they do not deny being werewolves but also claim that they are the 'dogs of God', and are commanded by angels to steal grain and livestock from surrounding farms to aid in the later harvest. If they do not do this, the harvest will fail. Fenrir - Feared as a malevolent god in Germanic folklore, this species of incredibly large and powerful wolves can still be found in the areas in which it was originally spoken of. They are the size of horses, and have incredibly powerful bites that can break through bone. Fenrir - Responsible for the eventual defeat and murder of Odin during the Norse Ragnarök, this monstrous deity resembles a giant wolf, and is believed to be one of the many inhuman children of Loki. Because of a prophecy containing this information relayed to the Norse gods, Fenrir was imprisoned, but the chains that hold him are prophesised to break during the End of Days. Although he will kill Odin, Odin's son Víðarr will then kill him as revenge. Fetch - Supernatural apparitions that resemble a warped and contorted version of a living human, these creatures originate from Ireland. They will appear to the person that they mimic in order to foretell their deaths. Fetchling - Created from humans who became trapped in Limbo and were warped by the dark energies of the place, these slender humanoids of modern fantasy literature resemble completely monochromatic visages of their former selves, but also have glowing yellow eyes and slightly thinner physiologies. Because they are aware that they were once human, they usually act as emissiaries and translators between native species and humans trapped in Limbo. Feufollet - Similar to will-o'-wisps, these incandescent North American faeries were originally mentioned by French settlers in bayous during the 1920s. They will emerge from the swamps and fly at great speed into the sky in the surrounding area, and have sometimes been known to mimic the voices and personalities of deceased loved ones. Fext - Residing in Slavic countries, these powerful undead creatures will appear in times of war and conflict. It is unknown where exactly they come from, though it is known that they are invulnerable to bullets and other conventional means of harm. However, glass weaponry can kill them. Fideal - Evil water faeries, these creatures resemble human females with bedgraggled hair and pale skin, and are said to embody entangling grasses and reeds. They are mostly found in Scottish water sources, though are known to occur all around Britain in smaller populations. It is unclear what their relationship is to other water faeries in the area. Fiend - First mentioned in Old English texts, these shapeshifting monsters are perfectly adapted to hunt humans, with their slender frame allowing for absolute silence when moving. They will brutally devour any humans that they can catch without alerting others to their presence, though can be killed using fire or decapitation. Fiji Mermaid - Incredibly ugly despite their beautiful namesake, these aquatic primates are commonly found in warm waters around their namesake area in the South Pacific. They are fast swimmers and vicious predators of small fish and other mammals, but are rarely known to attack humans. A single individual of this species was exhibited by P.T. Barnum in 1842. Finfolk - Wielding powerful magic, these merfolk are found in and around the Orkney Islands, where they will venture onto land during the Spring and Summer months to kidnap humans to act as spouses. When they do this, they will shapeshift into human forms, with the males becoming tall and dark with thin facial features, and the females gaining beautiful blonde hair and pale skin. Those that follow the finfolk into the water will never be seen again, likely having been drowned. Fingernail Freddie - The iconic fictional monster known as Freddy Krueger is believed to have been inspired by this terrifying ghost known from the campfire stories of the North American Camp Ker-Anna in Cumberland, which is said to be the spirit of a local hermit named Charles Torrie, who was alledged to kill any campers and children who made too much noise. His body was badly disfigured by a fiery accident in his past, and his nails had grown extremely long because of his isolated lifestyle. Finn - Closely related to Trows and other ogre-like faeries, these shapeshifting creatures are found in the British seas and oceans surrounding the Scottish Shetlands, and are said to be powerful magic users, capable of curing all diseases that might afflict them. They usually resemble humans, but can shapeshift into sea monsters in order to chase boats and drag their crew underwater. The only way to survive is by throwing silver into the water, which the Finns will fight each other to obtain. Finngálkin - Truly bizarre variants of centaurs, these Icelandic aberrations resemble humanoids with the forequarters of a donkey or ass. They are found in the grasslands and forests of their home country, and are sometimes depicted in local art, much to the confusion of scholars, as centaurs were not previously believed to have spread to Iceland. Finngalkn - Resembling sauropod dinosaurs, these large reptiles have long necks and tails that they use to swim through shallow rivers and lakes in Iceland. They are carnivorous monsters that are known to devour humans that they catch, and can only be killed using silver bullets, which suggests that they may be able to shapeshift. Fir Bolg - As the fourth group of human settlers in Ireland, this culture was supposedly forced to flee the landmass after a mighty war. However, they actually made a deal with a long-forgotten pagan deity, and were transformed into inhumanly strong giant-like creatures. These beings are capable of using shapeshifting abilities, which has allowed them to stay hidden from the general human population. Fir Chlis - Dancing and parading through dark forest areas, these British faeries entice nearby humans to join them in their folly, who will then be sucked into an eternal dance until they either die or are driven to insanity. Their movements are sometimes said to be responsible for the phenomenon of the Northern Lights, and their victims are sometimes taken to the Faery Realm rather than being killed. Fire Dragon - This large reptile is roughly the size of a bear, and can be found in the forests and swamps of West Virginia. It seemingly has a crest on the back of its head, mimicking the ancient ceratopsian dinosaurs. It gets its name from its heavy reliance on heat, and can often be seen sunning itself among dense trees and on the surface of secluded lakes. Fire Vampire of Fthaggua - Serving the high priest of the chaos god known as Cthugha, these Lovecraftian monstrosities resemble crimson bursts of lightning, and gain sustenance by draining energy from living beings, which will then burst into flames as if afflicted by spontaneous human combustion. The vampires will absorb the minds of their victims, distributing their memories among their hive-mind, allowing all members of the species to use the knowledge gleaned from slain sentient beings. Fiura - Hideous female forest faeries, these Chilean creatures are thought to be the female counterparts of the trauco, and use their superhuman strength to break the bones of humans and animals that encroach on their territory. Sometimes they will grip onto the backs of male victims, and force them into having sexual intercourse using dark magic and charms. Once this has happened, the male will become corrupted and evil. Fjorulalli - Aquatic relatives of andrewsarchus and other mesonychids, these bizarre predators are found on the frigid shorelines of Iceland. They have long brown fur in which mussels and barnacles grow, resulting in a jingling noise being generated when the animals walk. Although not usually hostile to humans without provocation, the creatures have been known to steal and eat local livestock such as sheep. Flæðarmús - Resembling field mice, these aquatic Icelandic animals live at great depths in their oceanic habitats, and require gold or silver to survive. They will only come ashore to collect coins, and if they are captured they can be used to generate small fortunes for their captors. If they are placed in a small container with a coin or other valuable item, they will spawn identical copies of them over time. Flagae - First recorded medieval European alchemy, these demons hide inside mirrors in the houses of those who use dark magic, and will slowly learn how to take human form based on unsuspecting victims that look into them. They enjoy pretending to be oracles or genies, and feed on the conflict that their false advice causes. Flatwoods Monster - Appearing to a small group of witnesses in 1952 shortly after the apparent crash of a UFO in its namesake North American area, this bizarre and unearthly entity resembles a cybernetic humanoid with a dress-shaped lower body and a head akin to an ace of spades. It slowly glided towards the witnesses while making a hissing sound and emitting a noxious green gas, which later caused sickness in those present. Flesh Golem - The fictional tale of Dr Frankenstein's Monster was inspired by this horrific reality. These beings are often constructed by necromancers and dark magicians, using various body parts from corpses and other illegitimate sources, to act as mindless slaves and enforcers. However, they have been known to gain consciousness of their own, and become rebellious against their masters. Fleshgait - Sometimes confused with the tulpa known as the Rake, these skinny humanoids appear to have inspired the creation of the latter creature. They have been seen all over the world, ranging from Africa to America, and always seem to incite extreme fear in those that see them, possibly due to their aggressive behavior. Their bodies are skeletal and ghostly white, and their faces are inhuman with glowing eyes. Fleshgait - Thought to be closely related to Skinwalkers because of their similar names and shapeshifting abilities, these bizarre forest critters are found all around the world, and are well-known nowadays due to the popularity of Internet forums. They generally try to lure and stalk humans in forested area as by mimicking the voices or appearances of their loved ones, but normally appear uncanny or repulsive by accident. Possibly demonic, they can be repelled by dreamcatchers and their ilk. Flodder - Found in areas of the Netherlands such as Rucphen, these nocturnal Dutch demons resemble monstrous otters or hellhounds, and are known to use their enormous frog-like webbed claws to grasp onto the backs of humans who travel along riverbanks at night, forcing them to carry them until they reach civilisation, or until they fall over and drown in mud. Once the victims have been discarded, they will be plagued by supernatural nightmares unless they remove their socks and cross them. Floodslain - A rare variety of ghost, these beings form when a large number of souls are simultaneously drowned or killed by water in some similar manner. They appear as clouds of white vapor that seem to have minds of their own, and can even clamber over obstacles as if they were solid. They are mostly not hostile, though because they are composed of multiple souls, their temperament has been known to vary. Floodslain - Those who drown in the turbulent waters of flash floods are known to resurrect as these horrific undead due to the suddenness and trauma of their deaths, and will then seek out lower ground as if longing for the waters that claimed their lives in the first place. They are driven by a desire to drown other living humans, and can sometimes be found floating in rivers or wandering floodplains in large numbers, relentlessly hunting any humans they come across. Florida Moss Man - First witnessed in its namesake North American state in 1978 when it frightened a young couple who originally mistook it for a homeless person wearing a tattered coat, this bizarre elemental humanoid resembles a skeletal seaweed-covered being with glowing amber eyes. Sightings continued throughout the 1980s, with some describing the being as a water spirit resembling a wraith. It is sometimes said to have been spawned from a Native American curse cast by a dying princess. Flukeman - These sewer dwelling creatures are genetic hybrids of flatworms and humans that were created during the Chernobyl disaster. They use their large mouths to implant parasitic young into victims. Since their creation, they have entered the sewers of New Jersey, and have been growing in numbers there ever since. Flying Crocodile - Truly bizarre and possibly demonic creatures, these reptiles were sighted by lumberjacks throughout the 1800s, and were said to have six pairs of legs and six wings. They can reach lengths of up to 18ft, and imprints left by their webbed feet have been found in North American mud. Flying Head - Known from innumerable Native American cultures, these horrific winged creatures are usually found fiercely protecting cursed ground or areas in which mass slaughters took place. They are known to fly into the tents and houses of their victims at night and devour them ruthlessly, though appear to be frightened of cooked acorns because of their resemblance to live coals. Flying Humanoid - These strange beings are mostly found in Western areas, though have been reported all over the world. They vary greatly in description, but are mostly completely black and featureless, and appear to have the ability to fly at incredible speeds without wings or other means of propulsion. Flying Ray - Seemingly not entirely of our dimension, these airborne entities appear similar to manta rays with grey and transparent bodies akin to smoked glass. They have no visible mouths, eyes, tails or limbs, and are thought to be part of a much larger ecosystem of atmospheric beasts. Foawr - Commonly seen throwing rocks and massive boulders at nearby humans and settlements, these monstrous giants are found in the mountains and hills of the Isle of Man. They are sometimes said to be related to the Fomorians, and to be the children of an ancient storm goddess, though some theories about them sharing ancestry with trolls have been proposed. Foliot - Likely closely related to Poltergeists, these Italian spirits normally frequent particularly forlorn households in order to cause chaos by emitting agonising screams and shrill laughter, throwing furniture and stones, and producing bright lights and anomalous fires within their chosen households. They are sometimes known to assume the physical forms of crows, hares or hellhounds, and are taken to be the ghosts of hellbound humans seeking revenge on those around them. Folk Devil - Causing mass hysteria and persecution within isolated communities, these manipulative demons take on the forms of collective fears or anxieties shared by groups of people. Sometimes, the creatures have been known to target specific people and turn communities against them, usually doing this when commanded to by a dark magic user. Folly Beach Monster - Found after it was washed up on its namesake beach in South Carolina, this North American aquatic aberration was first recorded on March 22nd of 2012, and was said to resemble a large fish-like globster with a tan-and-green colouration, covered in bony plates and armed with vestigial fins. A scientist has since stepped in on the debate and declared it to have been nothing more than a decaying sturgeon, bleached an odd colour due to prolongued exposure to the sun. Fomorian - Found in sea caves and dark caverns along the cliff sides of Ireland, these hostile creatures appear as giant humanoids. They are known to raid villages and attack human settlements, and are even said to embody chaos and death in the local folklore. There is some speculation that they may be related to the Norse Jötunn. Foo Fighter - Often identified as either atmospheric beasts or possibly alien drones, these fast-moving UFOs were seen throughout World War II by both Nazi and Allied airmen, who frequently reported being followed through the skies by the flaming beings that could not be outmaneuvered or shot down. Despite usually being small and speedy, they were sometimes known to assume larger sizes and hang motionless in the air, usually over the Pacific where they were known as 'balls of fire'. Forneus - Originally a member of the throne choir of angels, this strange devil resembles a monstrous sea beast such as a stingray or ningen. It is capable of granting magic users transcendent knowledge and good status if it is summoned, though will demand to be released into the outside world in return. In more extreme examples of this, it has been known to change hatred and war into friendship and peace. Fort Delaware Ghost - Acting as a prison camp during the American Civil War, the North American Fort Delaware ultimately became home to over 30,000 Confederate soldier inmates, and a few thousand are said to have died in the place before they could be transferred elsewhere, resulting in their wrathful spirits remaining trapped at the location. One of these souls is that of officer James Jay Archer, who died in solitary confinement and is still sometimes seen in his cell. Fossegrim - Related to nixies, these Scandinavian water faeries resemble slender and attractive humanoids with long hair, and will sit on rocks and cliffs playing the fiddle. They are widely sought out for their skill with this musical instrument, and people often bring them sacrifices such as goats or stolen goods in return for being taught how to play. Some of the best fiddlers are said to have been taught by these creatures. Fotsiaondré - Akin to sheep or goats, these cloven-hoofed hairy humanoids are usually found in the dense forests of Madagascar, and are known to have long and woolly ears and bulging eyes. They are nocturnal and herbivorous, and are sometimes thought to be related to lemurs. Sightings of the animals are rare due to their lifestyle. Frametown Monster - First encountered on September 13th 1952 by two terrified witnesses as they were driving home through North America's Flatwoods, this ostensibly ultraterrestrial monstrosity first caused the witnesses' car to come to a mysterious halt, leading to one of the victims leaving the car where he would come face-to-face with the alien. It apparently emitted a noxious gas and resembled a reptilian humanoid in a cone-shaped hovering craft, and burnt the car with its fingers. Francois Le Mew Humanoid - First recorded when one was observed crawling around on the ground outside the North American Midwest childhood home of their namesake witness, these bizarre humanoid aberrations were described as 5ft tall entities with large glowing eyes and luminescent spherical structures where their necks or mouths should have been. The witness's dog appeared to be significantly agitated by their presence, and to this day the witness is frightened of the woods around that house. Frau Welt - Appearing as beautiful humanoid women when viewed from the front, but revealing maggot-infested rotting flesh when seen from the back, these seductive German beings act akin to succubi, representing sexual temptation. Their initial appearance can sometimes be so beautiful as to hypnotize or daze male onlookers, rendering them defenseless against the creatures' attacks. They are often depicted in traditional medieval art, representing the need to 'look behind' first impressions. Fravashi - Acting as guardian angels for some humans all the way through from birth to death, these angels maintain the physical bodies and souls of their hosts according to Zoroastrian traditions found in the Middle East. They are often depicted in artwork and pendants worn by those who follow the religion, and are sometimes said to return to the households of their human counterparts after the deaths of said humans, and to demand worship from their relatives. Freischütz - Literally unable to miss a target when using a certain number of enchanted bullets, these dark magic users are mentioned in German folklore and are said to gain their extraordinary marksmanship skills from making a pact with Satan. The number of bullets capable of being controlled by the gunman is usually six, and the seventh shot is controlled by the Devil himself, and will often be used to either kill the gunman or one of their loved ones. Fresno Nightcrawler - These alien-looking ultraterrestrial spirits were previously known to Native American populations, though came to the public's radar in 2007 when they were caught on camera. They resemble vaguely humanoid creatures suspended on two long legs, and don't seem to have any other discernible features. It is speculated that these limbs may help them to navigate boggy terrain. Freybug - Alleged to have been featured in the folklore of Norfolk, these monstrous hellhounds are likely to have never actually existed until they were inadvertently created as tulpas due to a misguided joke entry made in a famous bestiary. As a result of this foolish jest, they now roam the lonely roads of Britain after dark, stalking and terrifying lonely travlers, but are also known to come into frequent conflict with the native hellhounds known as Black Shuck. Frightener - Oversized mantis-like monstrosities, these hideous insects were originally created by rogue magic users before escaping into the outside world where they are nearly invincible when being controlled by dark magic users, thus being feared even by the most skilled hunters. They usually dwell in desert territories, and are extremely sensitive to sound, which can fortunately be used to stun or deafen the beasts. Although they mostly resemble mantises, they also have long fangs. Frogfoot - Often mistakenly identified as an aquatic primate, this North American creature actually represents a unique bipedal amphibian. It has hardened gills on the sides of its throat, which it does not loose in adulthood unlike other amphibians. The being was consistently reported throughout the 1970s in areas such as Illinois and Ohio. Frogman - Although a distinct species from the Loveland Lizard, these fae can still be seen around that general area. They have the ability to shapeshift into human forms, though resemble hideous amphibians in their true appearance. They feed off humans by killing them with a slow-acting poison that is injected by touch, and often leaves distinctive green handprints on the victim. Fuath - Similar to kelpies, these Scottish creatures are covered in water-plants and spikes that resemble seashells. They live in any source of water that they can find, including the sea or fast-flowing rivers, though seem to be reluctant to cross streams. Like kelpies, they are capable of shapeshifting and having children with humans, which will often be born with webbed digits and a small mane. Fūjin - Ancient and unruly deities, these Japanese deities preside over the wind and storms, and are said to carry large bags containing the terrifying force of nature that they control. They are harsh and fickle in temperament, and resemble green-skinned demons with long hair and leopard-skin cloaks. Their ogre-like nature brings to mind a possible relation with rakshasas. Fulad-Zereh - Inhabiting heavy suits of steel armor, these flying Middle Eastern demons are known to swoop down on isolated villages and kidnap human women, and are often found around dark magic users and faeries. Due to an ancient spell placed on the first individual of their species, they can only be killed by a specific blade, that has long since been lost to time. Funayūrei - People who die at sea in the waters around Japan are said to be transformed into these wrathful ghosts after death, and to then attempt to sink other ships and make their crews join them. They do this in a manner of ways, such as creating ghost ships and charging directly towards other vessels, or simply physically manifesting on their intended target ship and murdering the crew. There have been cases recorded of the beings assuming a giant size to sink ships. Funeral Mountain Terrashot - Ungainly and almost biologically pointless creatures, these bizarre North American animals resemble hybrids of reptiles and deer with coffin-shaped shells on their square bodies. They usually live in meadows and mountains in small groups that slowly increase to unmanageable numbers before they are all seized by a bizarre impulse to migrate. None will survive these journeys, because they will walk in a single line and eventually explode, making grave-shaped holes. Fūri - Similar to monkeys or weasels, these greenish Japanese rodents live in trees high up in mountainous regions, and leap to and from branches using the wind to carry them great distances. They have been observed to mimic patches of grass in order to catch birds, and also feed on incense using in traditional medicine. Their bodies are very fragile and they can be killed instantly if they are struck, but they will resurrect if wind blows into their mouths. Furia Infernalis - First discovered by Carl Linnaeus whilst searching for botanical specimens in the swamps of Sweden, these horrific parasites resemble pale worms with black blades on their heads, and burrow into the flesh of mammalian victims, causing excruciating pain and ultimately madness. Linnaeus was so impressed by the pain that he felt in 1728 after becoming their first official victim that he decided to name them after the Latin term for 'Hell's fury'. Furufuhué - Seldom seen but often heard due to their extremely loud whistling calls, these enormous winged entities are to be found in small numbers in Chile and Argentina, and are referred to as dragon-like hybrids of birds and fish in the local folklore, having glowing scales instead of feathers. They are said to create the bitter winds often experienced in Southern Patagonia, and are apparently only visible in areas shaded from sunlight. Most information about them has been lost. Furuogi - Virtually nothing is known about these squat and hairy tsukumogami, aside from the fact that they are supposed to resemble wolves or boars with folding fans emerging from their backs. They are depicted in some of the earliest 'Night Parade' scrolls from Japan, and they were named much later due to the lack of information given on said scrolls. Fury - These wrathful creatures were spoken of in Greek mythology, and seem to feed on grievances that humans have with others, using these to target victims. They believe that what they are doing is the right thing, and will tenaciously hunt down humans who are disliked by their peers, using their glowing red eyes' gaze to inflict insanity on those who see them. Futakuchi Onna - Resembling a beautiful human women from the front, these awful Japanese creatures are famous for the monstrous second mouth that they have on the backs of their heads. They are thought to originally be spider-like creatures that take human form to marry unsuspecting men, and then feed off their food supply. Their long black hair can work in prehensile strands to feed the second mouth. Fuxi - One of the many offspring species spawned by the Chinese Dragon King, these elongated drakes resemble most other Asian dragons, but are famous for their love of calligraphy and literature. Because of their passion for writing and reading, they are sometimes nicknamed 'Bookwyrms' after similar characters in modern video games. Fylgja - Manifesting as soon as a child is born, these Norwegian shapeshifters are usually known to follow their human hosts throughout their lives, dictating their fates and fortunes as well as protecting them from harm. They usually take on the form of an animal that represents their human counterpart's personality traits. Some have suggested that they are related to daemons or familiars because of their similar habits and abilities. Gaasyendietha - This enormous dragon is found in Canadian lakes, and is thought to have originated from an ancient meteor that fell to Earth. As a result, it has the ability to spew massive bolts of flame, even when underwater, and can light its entire body aflame to cross the sky in a blazing trail. Gabon Rhinoceros - Recorded since at least the 1930s, these rare African mammals are believed to be relatives of the more well-known black rhinoceros. They are thought to live in the dense forests of the Gabon region, and were depicted on the 1985 1000 francs note, much to the chagrin of conventional zoologists. Large populations of them are rumored to exist, but this is unconfirmed. Gagiid - Thought to have originally been formed from the spirits of Native American warriors who were drowned after a canoeing accident, these hairy humanoid faeries are comfortable both on land and in water. Either resembling humanoid otters or apes with pale skin, they are known to frighten and harass humans that they view as vulnerable to spiritual harm. Ga-Gorib - Mischievous and dangerous primates, these large African creatures are known to make their dens at the corners of large pits, and challenge passersby to throw stones at them. However, their spotted hide seems to have magical properties, and the stones bounce back and knock the thrower into the pit. The creatures will then eat the human victims. Gahe - Rarely seen but often heard, these musical North American faeries live high up in mountains and other rocky areas, and are often known to dance in ritualistic groups. They can heal and drive away disease from people who communicate with them in the appropriate way, which is to join in with the creatures' dancing. Gahonga - Dwelling around mountains and rocky streams in North America, these semi-aquatic faeries resemble diminutive humanoids and are usually found on the banks of rivers and lakes. Their favorite game is to play catch with passersby, using large boulders because they do not understand the potentially deadly consequences for the human participants. Gaines - Dressing themselves in old-fashioned clothing akin to what would be expected of medieval peasants, these forest-dwelling Italian elves are known to be expert weavers, and are often seen wearing tall, pointed hats made from animal pelts. Like most faeries, they will sometimes help humans if called upon, and the cloth that they weave with their magical spinning wheels is said to be a potent bringer of good luck. They are also capable of divining the future, and so are used as oracles. Gaiya - Alleged to have stalked the Australian Outback in a slightly dubious source pertaining to Aboriginal mythology, this enormous demonic creature is also simply known as the 'giant devil dingo', and the name is self-explanatory. There is a story told in children's literature about how this beast was eventually tamed, and its descendants became modern dingos, which were regarded as more benevolent and helpful. Gajah Mina - Inhabiting the warm ocean waters around Indonesia, these marine pachyderms have evolved to use their long trunks as snorkels. Interestingly, there seem to be certain species of seaweed that live symbiotically with the elephants on their backs, giving the animal the appearance of having fur. The beached bodies of the creatures are still being seen today, with the most recent confirmed report taking place on the 14th of February 2016. Gaja-Vyala - Territorial beasts, these Asian creatures combine the features of lions and elephants, and are thought to related to bakus and sphinxes. They do not display any notable magical abilities, though are physically strong enough to easily tear apart a large car if so angered. Gaki - These undead creatures constantly suffer torments that are based on the sins that they committed in their past lives. They have skinny, bony limbs and distended bellies. They will voraciously eat anything and everything that they can find, though are cursed to never find nourishment. Galgalim - Consisting of two nested wheel-like structures, these fiery angels are said to constantly flank higher-ranking beings such as cherubim. They are covered in eyes and burning flames, and their name roughly translates as 'burning flame' in the legendary Book of Enoch. Galley-Trot - Stalking lonely country roads and hilly graveyards around Britain, these enormous white faery hellhounds are usually known to foretell the deaths of all those that witness them, and are sometimes seen waiting outside the houses of terminally ill or wounded people. Sometimes, they are described as humanoids with the heads of large hounds, which suggests that they may have a shapeshifting ability. Like other faeries, they can be hurt using salt and iron. Gallinipper - Lurking in the forests and swamps of North America, these massive mosquitoes are spoken of in the native legends of Carolina, and are said to have been large enough to drain all the blood from a human victim in a single bite. The proboscises that they wield are so large and sharp that they can slice through a human arm, and the monsters are held to be responsible for innumerable lumberjack deaths during the 1800s. Gallû - Foul demonic creatures known from the mythology of the Middle East, these agile and terrifying predators are known to drag human victims that they capture back into their Underworld home. It is unknown what happens to the victim at this point, though the creatures were appeased by animal sacrifice in ancient times. Galone - Thought to be the descendants of Garuda, these avian humanoids are classified as faeries despite their godly heritage, and are mentioned in the folklore of the Burmese people. They share a natural adversity with the nāga. It is the sightings and actions of these creatures that often leads to the Garuda being classified as a species of faeries rather than a group of deities. Galtzagorri - Almost like hyperactive brownies, these Spanish faeries live in households and will constantly require the human residents to set them tasks to keep them busy. They often appear as humanoids wearing red trousers or caps, and are capable of moving at superhuman speeds to accomplish the tasks that they are given. Gamayun - Dwelling on a semi-mythical island near to Paradise or Heaven, these beautiful beings resemble large birds with the heads of human women, and sing prophetic songs and divine messages. They know everything about the past, present and future of gods and heroes, and are spoken about in Slavic mythology, in which they are regarded as very similar to the Sirin and the Alkonost. Gambo - Known only from a mystery corpse that washed up on the coast of Gambia, these creatures have since been identified as fully aquatic monotremes. They are related to the platypus, and hunt using electrical signals to find prey in poor visibility environments. Their resemblance to marine reptiles is purely coincidental. Gamelyon - Resembling a hybrid of dragon and lion characteristics, these powerful beasts are known from Heraldic folklore, but have since faded into cultural obscurity. This, however, does not mean that they are not still found in mountainous and isolated areas in the British Isles. Gamusino - Nebulous and irritating but ultimately purposeless tulpas often accidentally created by Spanish summer camp counsellors, fishermen or hunters, these nondescript forest-dwelling beings are created when the authority figures in a community decide to play a prank on those less experienced than them by sending them off on hunts for otherwise-nonexistent creatures. They lurk in shadowy or inconspicuous areas where hunters are only ever likely to catch brief glimpses of them. Gaṇa - Described as the faithful attendants of Hindu deities, these fearsome angels are usually found atop mountains among shrines and temples dedicated to deities such as Shiva, though are also seen around graveyards and other places associated with the Underworld. The individuals of the species that are confined to graveyards and cemeteries are usually carnivorous and monstrous, because they were created by Shiva out of anger and frustration, and they are thought to be related to rakshasas. Gaṇa - Described as the faithful attendants of Hindu deities, these fearsome angels are usually found atop mountains among shrines and temples dedicated to deities such as Shiva, though are also seen around graveyards and other places associated with the Underworld. The individuals of the species that are confined to graveyards and cemeteries are usually carnivorous and monstrous, because they were created by Shiva out of anger and frustration, and they are thought to be related to rakshasas. Gandaberunda - Despite their fearsome appearance, these monstrous Indian toothed birds are said to be the predators of various monsters and demons in Indian or Hindu mythology. However, they are very protective of their territory, and have been known to carry off various animals or people that encroach on their habitat, including elephants. Gandaspati - Demonic spirits akin to will-o-the-wisps, these Central Javan entities usually appear as balls of light, but can also change their forms to resemble small dragons or winged serpents consumed with flame. The Indonesian creatures are capable of causing instant death simply by touching humans, and are thus considered to be far more dangerous than other phantom lights, not leading people away and instead simply killing them instantly. Ganiagwaihegowa - Resembling a monstrous bear completely devoid of hair, this monstrous supernatural predator was said to have terrorised the North American Seneca people of the New York area, pursuing and devouring anyone who strayed out into the wilderness alone until it was slain by two heroes named Hadentheni and Hanigongendatha. They discovered that its only weak points were its feet, and so they traveled to its Underworld home and killed it, cutting off its feet and burning its body. Garappa - Dwelling on secluded islands off the coast of Southern Japan, these regional variations of Kappas are much taller and have spindlier limbs than their more well-known relatives, and are usually known to keep away from human populations to the best of their ability, either living completely alone or in small groups. However, they still love to trick and prank human intruders, but this mischievous streak can be quashed by manipulating their desire to stick to their word and remain honest. Garden Gnome - Found all over the world, but mostly in rural households with large gardens and livestock, these strange and ugly faeries are incapable of living up to their whimsical reputation. They are incredibly fast and agile, and are carnivorous beings that enjoy eating fish and scaring local humans. A notable sighting in which multiple witnesses saw the pointy-hatted creatures occurred in and around California in 2004. Garei - Emerging from old and neglected painting that usually depict their likeness to wander the households where the artwork is stored every night, these uncanny Japanese ghosts are born when an artist has so much skill that they can infuse their works with actual souls. Although the paintings and their occupants are usually humanoids, there are stories of the paintings acting as portals to Hell. A modern example of one of these creatures is the painting known as The Hands Resist Him. Gargantuan Glider - Often mistaken for UFOs due to their metallic shells and glowing bodies, these enormous atmospheric beasts resemble flattened clams or living pancakes with crystal-like carapaces on their backs. They were first witnessed in the Nevada desert during 1925 when four pilots had an encounter with a wounded individual, which was soon picked up by a larger mollusc with four tentacles, and the predator and prey accelerated up to the stratosphere and out of sight. Gargouille - Spouting water from their mouths instead of flames, these serpentine French dragons were supposedly responsible for the desolation of several small villages in 1394. They consume both humans and animals without discretion, and are said to only be repelled by the sign of the cross, suggesting a demonic origin. Gargoyle - Fashioned from cursed stone that has been in contact with large amounts of death and even genocide, these demonic monsters come to life when they are carved into the shape of dragon-like monsters. They are capable of spitting forth large bursts of boiling water and oil to protect their castle territory against intruders. Garkain - Lurking in the trees of Australian forests and swamps, and waiting for unwary humans to pass beneath them, these monstrous bats are said to produce pheromones that can render people unconscious without direct contact. They will feed on the flesh of their victims using their long canine teeth, but can easily be killed using mundane weaponry. Garmakochi - Mentioned in the mythology of the Laz people living on the Black Sea coast of Turkey, these ugly hairy humanoids are considered to be something between men and monkeys in the folklore of the local people. Very little else is known about them, except that some researchers believe that they are identical to the more commonly-heard of Bigfoot. They are more likely to be related to Hibagons or Yerens because of their distribution. Garmr - Comparable of Cerberus, these monstrous hellhounds are attested to in the poetic mythology of the Norse people, and are said to guard the entrance to the Afterlife, as well as heraldic the End of the World with their howling. Their name means 'rag' in Old Norse, and this is thought to be because they appear as if they are fashioned from bloodstained cloth and the clothing of the dead. Garson Invader - Encountered by a young miner in 1954, these ultraterrestrial alien aberrations are said to have emerged from a disc-shaped UFO that landed in their namesake Canadian area, and to have resembled vaguely insect-like monstrosities with multicoloured glowing bodies and spur-like antennae on their heads. They appeared to be psychic, capable of paralysing thier young victim and compelling him to commit acts, later described as unspeakable, which made him want to imprison himself. Garuda - An immensely powerful being, this winged entity is known from Hindu and Buddhist tradition as the steed of the goddess Kali. It is said to have been able to change its size and appearance to appear more (or less) threatening, and to have fed on the life force of lesser monsters. Recently, however, a group of hunters have been able to vanquish it to the best of their ability. Gashadokuro - Soldiers whose bodies rot without proper burials will become wrathful spirits inhabiting their skeletal bodies, and large numbers of these beings can fuse into one of these Japanese titans. They resemble enormous human skeletons that roam abandoned battlefields and mass graves at night, and will tear the heads off any humans that they find. Gassingram - Usually nocturnal and described as having eyes that glow like car headlights, these large feline predators are found in the plains of Central Africa, and were first reported in 1937. They make frightening noises akin to the bellowing of elephants, and are known to carry their prey off to their mountain lairs before killing them. Researchers have suggested that they are closely related to the ennedi tigers. Gastarios - Amusingly assumed to be fish in Medieval European literature, these aquatic invertebrates are thought to be related to prehistoric eurypterids or perhaps terrestrial scorpions, judging by their biology and method of obtaining prey. Although they are no larger than average spiders, they have extremely toxic venom which they inject through stingers in their tails. This toxin can kill most fish with ease, and the predators will inject their poison into the brains of larger animals. Gatto Mammone - Appearing on Shrove Tuesday and attacking those that dare to work on that day, these demonic creatures resemble enormous felines with the letter 'M' carved on their faces. They are sometimes considered to be protective spirits or associated with carnivals and festivals, though this belief has mostly disappeared with the spread of Christianity through Italy, when pagan worship was outlawed and demonized. The creature is thought to be related to Egyptian deities such as Bast. Gauarge - Described as featherless ostriches in Australian Aboriginal folklore, these dragon-like creatures bear a supernatural resemblance to the extinct ornithomimus dinosaurs, and are often found around lakes and rivers. If any human was foolhardy enough to bathe in one of the watering holes frequented by the gauarge, the killer creature would whip the water up into a whirlpool and drown the hapless swimmer. Gaueko - Embodying the night itself, these Basque spirits enforce curfews on the people around them, seeing as they believe that the nights should be for spirits and supernatural beings, and that humans should rest. They take on the forms of monstrous cattle to punish those who venture out into the darkness to work or show their bravery. These people are never seen again. Gawgaw - Cruelly punished despite their only crime being having been born at midnight on the 24th of December, these hideous shapeshifters are mentioned in Maltese folklore. Every night on Christmas Eve, these creatures will be forced to transform into zombie-like beasts and shamble through the streets of their hometown. However, many of them attempt to avoid this curse by staying up all night and counting grains of rice, similarly to how faeries can be trapped. Gawigawen - Although they may look brutish and stupid, these six-headed giants are surprisingly intelligent, and are adept at using a wide variety of weaponry and tricks. They are mostly found in the forests and mountains of the Philippines, and strangely do not possess six different personalities despite having six heads. This is likely because the heads are simply used as receptor organs. Gazeka - First encountered by Western explorers in 1906, these strange beasts are found in Papua New Guinea, and are thought to be marsupials that resemble large pigs with elephantine trunks and claw-like hooves, from which they garner their nickname of 'devil pigs'. Although they are herbivorous, their appearance has been known to be so shocking that explorers have previously mistaken them for demons in porcine guise, and attempted to shoot them. Gbahali - Found in the dense jungles of West Africa, this surviving relative of postosuchus hunts animals by ambushing them and then dragging them into the water using its large teeth. It is said to have an armored back, and measure over 30ft in length. Ged - Found in various deep lakes and rivers across Scotland, these toothy fish represent giant and serpentine variants of common pikes, and are depicted in some heraldic art from their native country. There are believed to be individuals of this species in other countries such as Germanic areas, and they are referred to as Lucies in these areas. Gef - Acting as companions to various innocent families that move into houses and areas in haunted locations, these strange faery rodents resemble large mongooses or weasels. They can speak and understand what is said to them, but will become hostile if directly confronted about their nature or origins. The member of this species recorded was in England during 1931. Gegenees - Massive, six-armed giants, these creatures are found in isolated populations in the Grecian Islands. They are brutal and stupid, though possess strength far superior to any human and many other giants. According to legend, the hero known as Heracles was forced to fight large numbers of the beasts after being marooned on one of their islands. Geist - German in origin, these terrifying spirits are often taken to be completely synonymous with other ghosts, but there is some evidence that their name should in fact be used to refer to a particular variety of ghost, especially ghastly in their appearance and frenzied in their temperament. They are also sometimes said to be somehow linked to the ancient Norse figure known as Óðr, and even connections with the 'Cult of Germanic Mercury', which worshiped Odin, have been made. Genbu - This awful demon is found in the Northern areas of the world, and resembles a chimeric hybrid of a snake and a tortoise in its true form. Although it is wise, it is also wrathful and vengeful about its enslaving in ancient times. In order to attack those that it views as enemies, it can manipulate the temperature around it. Genie - Although originating from the Middle East as another offshoot of the Djinn, these beings have since evolved into their own distinct species. They are found in warm and arid areas such as South America or Asia, and appear to be mostly comprised of blue vapor. They have the ability to grant wishes to those around them, though this often comes at a steep price. This trickery can be avoided by trapping the creatures inside lamps or other objects. Genii Cucullati - Depicted in carvings found all across Romano-Celtic regions in Europe and Britain, these relatively unknown beings are assumed to have had some religious significance to the local people, but no inscriptions are left on the carvings and so it is difficult to tell. It is possible that they are associated with the hooded deity known as Telesphorus, and they could be meant to represent fertility spirits symbolising rebirth due to the egg-like shapes of their carved depictions. Genii Locorum - Similar to nymphs in appearance and behavior, these spirits are common all across Europe from Italy to Great Britain. They are often representative of humanoid manifestations of particular areas or rivers, and this phenomenon is most known in the British River Thames. They are incredibly protective over their localities, and are often originally born from the spirit of someone who died in that area, though can be hurt using iron weapons. Genoskwa - These hairy humanoids are known from Native American folklore, and are supposed to be larger and bulkier than Sasquatch. They are known to raid villages in order to capture humans as prey, and also cover their fur in stones or rocks for protection. Gentry - Dwelling in hills and mountains throughout the British and Irish countryside, these noble and aristocratic faeries resemble diminutive humanoids that reach heights of roughly three and a half feet tall, and are known to be shy and skittish around humans, often fleeing if directly confronted. However, their society is structured much like the aristocracy of Medieval Europe, and so their dwellings are often guarded by warriors, which will encourage any encroaching humans to leave. Georgia Stalk - A pilot by the name of Fred Reagan was flying a small airplane over the North American region of Georgia in 1951 when he was suddenly pulled upwards by an unknown force, crashing his plane into a UFO. Inside the strange vehicle, he was confronted by a group of floating ultraterrestrials that apologised to him for the crash and informed him that he was now cured of cancer. The aliens sadly overlooked the radiation that they emit, and Fred later died of brain degeneration. Georgiaraptor - This troodontid dinosaur nocturnally hunts deer in the national parks of its namesake North American state. It has thick legs that enable it to stalk silently through the densely forested environment, but can also provide the animal with bursts of speed. Geow-Lud-Mo-Sis-Eg - Found in and around the New York state of North America, these diminutive faeries resemble leprechauns or pukwudgies, and are capable of either healing humans or causing possibly deadly mischief. They are skilled at braiding, and are known to tie intricate knots in the hair and clothes of animals and humans in their presence. The more mischievous individuals of their species can be appeased with offerings of tobacco. Gerjis - Hideous tiger-like monsters, these feline predators are known from Malaysian folklore, in which they are said to stalk forests and decimate the fauna in these areas through their ceaseless hunting. According to a local folktale, a group of animals got together and tried to come up with a plan to defeat the creature, eventually tricking it into believing that the sky was falling and that it needed to be buried. Once it was buried, an elephant crushed its skull. Geronian - Alien beings, these frog-like creatures have been witnessed across North and South America. They seem to not be aggressive towards humans, but instead curious, though their interest in our species is sometimes misidentified as an attack. Geryon - Mentioned in one of the many Greek mythological quests of Heracles, this monstrous giant apparently has three heads and three bodies, and is capable of wielding deadly weapons in each of its hands. It was said to have originally protected a herd of magical red cattle, but was then killed by a poison-tipped arrow by Heracles. Its descendants can be defeated in the same manner. Getzko - Bulky and muscular, these Polish hairy humanoids are found in deep mountainous forests, and stand roughly two and a half meters tall at the shoulder. They are strong and aggressive towards humans, and are known to make noises akin to horses. A particular folktale tells the story of a soldier who hunted one of these monsters, and was later found decapitated. Gévaudan Beast - Resembling a large wolf or a hyena, this vicious monster terrorized its namesake area in France throughout the 1760s, and killed innumerable civilians by ripping their throats out. There is speculation that it may have been a shapeshifter or werewolf, though this is currently no more than that. All attempts to kill the monster failed, and the beast eventually simply disappeared. Geyal - Possessive Hindu ghosts formed from the souls of people, usually male, who did not receive proper funerals, these vampiric spirits enter the bodies of their living family members through their open mouths at mealtimes, draining their souls and eventually causing them to become sick and die mysteriously. They will always feed on their loved ones, but they are also known to seek out pregnant women on which to prey if they can. The only way to get rid of one is to give it a proper funeral. Ghaddar - Lurking in the barren deserts of the Middle East and Africa, these ghoulish demons usually resemble undead humanoid females, and are known to kidnap and torture human travelers. They feed on the genitals and other soft tissue extremities of their victims, and are known to keep their prey alive for months in secluded dens or caves. Għaġeb Tal-Ilma - Most closely resembling enormous serpents or dragons with seven heads, these Maltese hydra-like monsters are said to represent each of the Seven Deadly Sins with their heads. They are known to have hunted and killed saints in ancient times, and they are famous for their virulently venomous bites. Although it is not confirmed in the mythology, the venom likely generates the symptoms of the Deadly Sins in those exposed to it, such as lethargy or extreme rage. Ghagiel - Associated with dishonesty, greed and vanity, these demonic giants usually appear as dark-skinned humanoids with snakes and serpents coiling around their bodies. They are generated when energies associated with honesty and reality itself become unbalanced, which will mean that certain groups of angels transform into these monsters. Ghatanothoa - Mentioned in the arcane writings of HP Lovecraft, this indescribable aberration is worshipped as a god by a small cult-like group of followers, and is thought to have been brought to Earth by an ancient alien race, possibly the Mi-Go originating on Yuggoth. Gazing upon Ghatanothoa will lead to the instant mummification of the observer, with their flesh taking on the consistency of leather and their still-conscious brain being forever preserved, thus making research nigh-impossible. Ghawwas - Sadistic aquatic djinn, these creatures resemble prehistoric fish with ferociously spiked scales covering their bodies. They have long tails tipped with poisonous barbs, and view all sapient beings that have contact with water as intruders and enemies, which they poison and kill mercilessly. They live at the very deepest points of the oceans surrounding the Middle East, but are known to come up onto land to extend their territory. Ghole - Hideous bloodsucking monsters, these odd creatures are known from the local folklore of the Middle East, in which they are said to be covered in hair and have long necks like those of ostriches. They are capable of shapeshifting into a beautiful human form to lure travelers into their dens, which they then kill and consume. On occasion, they have been known to fall in love with potential human victims. Ghost Cow of Farm Road 511 - Some of the strangest examples of ghostly phenomena that manifest on and around roads and highways, these bizarre apparitions resemble regular farmyard cattle, and menace drivers who travel down their namesake road in the North American state of Texas. They are known to spontaneously appear only a few feet away from moving vehicles, causing the cars to swerve off the road to avoid them. When the drivers leave the vehicles after the crashes, the creatures vanish. Ghost Moth - These incredibly fast, glowing critters are smaller relatives of the rods, and are often found captured on night vision cameras. Attempts to capture the creatures have failed, suggesting that they are extra dimensional or paranormal. Ghoul - These rarely seen monsters live in underground areas such as sewers or catacombs, and must feed on human flesh to survive. They can take on the form of corpses that they consume, meaning that their true appearance is not seen regularly. Their name hails from Arabic culture. Ghouleh - Feeding on the flesh of those foolish enough to venture out into the barren deserts of the Middle East alone, these ghoulish shapeshifters usually appear as beautiful female humans, though will start to appear corpse-like up close. They are closely related to the eponymous ghouls, and some researchers have suggested an original objective of dragging unwilling souls to the Underworld for these creatures. Ghul - These undead djinn will be found lurking around the graveyards and tombs of the Middle East, where they will feed on corpses. They resemble humans, though they have long claws and donkey-like hooves on their feet. When hunting human prey, they can morph their body into that of a hyena. Giant - Known to have built a number of otherwise unexplainable ruined castles and cities all over the world, this ancient humanoid race is much rarer nowadays. Most of them are thought to be asleep underneath various mountains and hills, but can be awakened using the right musical note or spell. It is unclear why anyone would want to do this, though, because the creatures are aggressive and stupid beings. Giant Aye-Aye - The size of a mid-sized dog, this creature's skin was found in Madagascar during the 1930s. The animal has since been observed in the wild by hunters, and has been classified as a critically endangered species. Giant Horse - Extremely rare among populations of their regularly-sized kin, these enormous mammals are known from a few reports including that of a young boy who witnessed one of the animals in a field with several other normal horses. The most well-documented member of this species was a horse called Dr. LeGear, which was regarded as 'the king of horses' while it was alive. They are found in small populations across the world. Giant Lion - Not actually lions, these fearsome predators are spoken of in the legends and folklore of native Madagascan people, and modern scientists have come to build a theory that they may represent a living group of giant fossas. This predator was thought to have become extinct during the middle Holocene, though this is evidently incorrect. Giant Penguin - These 15ft tall birds are found in swampy areas in North America, which is unusual because no other penguin species occur in this area. They have feet resembling those of an alligator, and are aggressive towards humans that they encounter. Giant Solifuge - As much larger relatives of the usually harmless camel spider, these creatures have been terrorizing the military in the Middle East recently. It is thought that they may have originated from a genetic mutation, and can kill soldiers in their sleep by mauling them as a dog would. Giant Triops - Although these prehistoric-looking arthropods are usually only the size of a small shrimp, these 5 foot long variants have recently been found in a Russian underground river. They appear to have voracious appetites, and attempted to bite the humans that eventually extracted them from the water. It is theorized that the creatures may have been exposed to radiation and thus reached comparatively enormous size. Giant Turtle - A snapping turtle the size of a car, these massive creatures are rarely found in lakes around North America, where they often become immortalized in the local folklore. They have been seen by scuba divers in Iowa, as well as citizens in Indiana. Giasticutus - Large enough to carry off full-grown cattle, these enormous North American birds often hunt in packs, circling their prey and diving around in the air. They usually have bald and vulture-like faces, and glossy wings covered in white feathers. Adult specimens can sometimes reach the sizes of small airplanes, and juvenile individuals have been known to be commonly captured and displayed as attractions in sideshows. Gibborim - Enormous and mighty in stature and power, these strange humanoid angels are often confused with nephilim because of their similar representation in Jewish religious literature. They are capable of producing powerful sonic waves as defense mechanisms, which has led to them being recorded as song-uttering beings. Gidmejmun - Tragic creatures cursed to wander the Earth as unlovable monsters because of past evil deeds, these feline fiends are referred to in Maltese folklore and culture, and are usually known to hide in dark corners and alleyways. They attempt to ease their sorrow by frightening and terrorizing passersby, though some have suggested that they may actually be demonic tricksters. Gierfrass - Either born when someone commits suicide or is buried in clothing that still contains their names sewn into the fabric, these vampiric undead creatures are mentioned in German folklore, and infect their victims with horrific supernatural diseases. They will pursue and kill people who were their friends and family in life before moving onto attacking random passersby. Gigahylobates - These enormous gibbons are found in and around Indian territories, where they steal both food and livestock from villages. Despite their large weight, they are adept at swinging through trees as well as hunting on the ground, and are possibly responsible for some Bigfoot reports. Gigantes - These massive creatures are known from Greece and Europe, and resemble humanoids with serpents for legs and sometimes large wings. They are able to alter their body size whilst maintaining their monstrous strength, and can use limited geokinesis. Gigelorum - The smallest animals known to man, these minuscule insects are known from the Celtic folklore of Scotland, and are said to live in the ears of mites. They are basically invisible to humans, though it is said that some powerful magic users can enhance their eyesight enough to see them for a short time. Gilgamesh - Spoken of in the Sumerian myth known as the Epic of Gilgamesh, this incredibly powerful being was originally known as a king of the ancient Middle East. He is said to have built cities and met with ancient beings that survived the biblical Flood, and to have befriended a wildman named Enkidu. The descendants of this man are today named after him, and they all possess godly strength and intelligence for which they are revered. Gilled Antelope - Appearing akin to a regular antelope, these rare hybrid creatures live in the forests and rivers of Cambodia, and are unique due to having specially-adapted gills on their necks. These organs allow them to breathe underwater for limited amounts of time, and they are therefore thought to be related to Capricorns. They are rarely seen, which suggests that their population is small and sparsely-distributed. Giltinė - Respected and feared as the representations of death on Earth by the Lithuanian people, these hideous hags have bluish skin and long tongues with which they sting their victims. They are born from the souls of young or virginal people who died before their times due to being buried alive. In this respect, they could be considered undead forms of the classic reaper. Gingerbread Witch - Representing a distinct and bizarre branch of dark magic users, these old crones are found in the woodlands of Germany and Europe. They are capable of manipulating reality to a limited degree around them, and have been known to construct vast buildings out of sweets and cake in order to lure children. Upon capturing these victims, they will then cook and eat their bodies, which is believed to have inspired the folkloric tale of Hansel and Gretel. Gin-Sung - Inhabiting the mountains of central China, these hairy humanoid primates are often mistaken for the legendary yeti or other unknown hominids. They are covered in shaggy brown-black fur all year around, and leave footprints reminiscent of the North American bigfoot. Some have suggested that they may represent surviving gigantopithecus. Girimehkala - Demonic monsters resembling elephants with single eyes in the middles of their foreheads, these mighty Sri Lankan beasts are said act as mounts for demonic rulers. Anyone who looks into the glowing eyes of the monsters will become cursed, and will gradually fall sick and die. Girtablilu - Venomous shapeshifters, these creatures have the ability to become scorpion-like beings with barbed stings all over their flesh. They have strength and agility superior to that of humans, and their venom induces everlasting, overwhelming pain. When they transform to and from beast form, their eyes turn completely black. Gjenganger - Spoken of mostly in Scandinavian traditions, these corporeal ghosts are often formed from either the restless souls of those who were murdered or committed suicide, and return from the grave in a completely solid form to torment their family members. The residents of villages in which someone died in the way that would produce one of these creatures would take extensive precautions to prevent the corpses from coming back to life. Glabrezu - Roughly as large as an average giant, these monstrous demons resemble muscular humanoids with two sets of arms, one of which ending in hands and the other ending in massive pincers, and have the heads of canine creatures adorned with large horns. Despite their physical prowess, they prefer to use deception and manipulation to lead their enemies to ruin, granting wishes of wealth and power to their mortal victims, but always with steep prices. In combat, they can use spells to confuse. Glaistig - Resembling beautiful and seductive human women, these Scottish faeries are appeased by local villagers with offerings of milk poured into stones, and thus protect the cattle and livestock of these communities. However, they have also been known to use their physical beauty to lure foolish young men off into the woods, where they will drink their blood or push them off a high ledge. They hide their goat-like legs under long green cloaks. Glamis - Originally a deformed child born to a Scottish ruler in ancient history, these fae have gradually evolved to lose their humanoid body shape and instead gain a more rounded form. This egg-shaped appearance, and the persecution that they receive from others because of their odd looks, has resulted in the creation of the fairytale character Humpty Dumpty. Glashtyn - Resembling goblin-like creatures with bizarre blends of equine and bovine features, these faeries are found in the lakes and rivers of the Isle of Man, and are known to make loud howling sounds to foretell the coming of destructive storms. They are also famous for their playful love of chasing women, and will often hold out jewelry in a poor attempt to lure them towards them. No matter which form the shapeshifters take, their ears will always be pointed like those of horses or cows. Glashtyn - These aquatic equine creatures are found on the Isle of Man, and can shapeshift to become handsome human males. Using this form, they will chase young women and attempt to seduce them, behaving in a similar manner to the Greek satyrs. Glaucus - Said to have originally been born when an ancient Greek sailor consumed a magic herb cursed by a sea deity, these tropical merfolk are capable of transforming others into members of their species. They are capable of foreseeing the future, and are thought to be close allies of the aquatic titans known as Oceanus and Tethys. Glaurung - Akin to an enormous lizard, this wingless dragon is commonly thought to be one of the first of its kind to exist. It dwells in caves high up in the mountains of Europe, and can produce incredible bursts of fire to incinerate its enemies. Despite resembling a wild animal, it is frighteningly intelligent, and has been known to be open to bartering with its prey for their lives. Glawackus - This truly fearsome critter is found in the forests and grasslands of Glastonbury in North America, and is described as appearing as a hybrid of a panther, hound and bear. It is known to hunt livestock and pets at night, whilst emitting awful howling sounds. It is said to have dark black or brown fur and glowing orange eyes, and is thought by hunters to represent a relict population of bear-dogs. Glimmer - Desperately longing to walk among the living again, these ghosts are known to assume the forms of either human corpses or living people that they encounter, and use their image to interact with their families. They are not inherently malicious, though can be detected by the strong light that shines from their eyes when reflected in mirrors if necessary. The beings seem to thrive on producing strong emotion. Glimmer Man - Seemingly capable of making themselves effectively invisible and intangible at will, these unique beings usually appear to humans as patches of distortion or heat-haze in a humanoid shape, and their abilities are often compared to the 'cloaking' effect displayed in the movie 'Predator'. Some researchers have suggested that they may be humans wearing some kind of advanced technological suit, and others have linked them to the series of disappearances known as 'Missing 411'. Glitch - Malicious faeries, these creatures feed on the human aggravation and frustration caused by their ability to disrupt and damage computer technology for otherwise unexplainable reasons. They are very rarely seen in their true forms, and often simply manifest as inexplicable rogue electrical signals. The damage that they inflict on technology is impossible to get rid of unless a deal is struck with the creature. Glob - Seen all across the world for many decades, these gelatinous creatures display no obvious signs of life except for pulsing like a living muscle. Some of them are reported to come from meteors, though some are found in the sewers of urban areas. They are not hostile to humans, though they have sometimes been reported to burn flesh that they touch. Globster - Although sometimes said to be nothing more than whale blubber that has detached from a sinking corpse, these stinking blobs are actually undead beasts that are formed from a dismembered cetacean carcass. They are unable to propel themselves through the water, and so float using current to catch mid-sized animal prey. Glocester Ghoul - Witnessed in 1839 by young Albert Hicks (who would go on to become the last man executed for piracy in North America) as he and a group of three friends were looking for buried pirate treature in Rhode Island's Paige Farm, this dragon-like creature was described as a fire-breathing animal with metallic scales, lights on the sides of its body and bat-like wings. It was last seen on January 13th, 1896 by a man named Neil Hopkins when it emerged from the forest and chased him. Glog - Descended from human vampire hybrids, these Bulgarian creatures have pale skin and stretchy flesh covered in a layer of protective slime. They experience incredibly strong thirsts for human blood, and are known to be able to slither and slide through impossibly small openings to get at potential victims. Gloson - Dangerous phantom boars, these creatures are said to inhabit graveyards and burial sites across Denmark and other Scandinavian countries. They have glowing red eyes and razor-sharp spines on their backs, with which they can slice their victims in half by running between their legs. Glowing Owl - Appearing as bioluminescent barn owls, these predatory birds use their natural glow to entice and confuse prey items such as mice or voles. They move in small family groups, and can form small swirling patterns in their European sky homes. Glue-Keek - Described as an enormous hairy humanoid with tough, leathery skin and glowing blue eyes which can hypnotise human victims, this monstrous creature is known to have terrorised the North American Lumni tribe, killing their warriors and stealing their food. Eventually the tribe decided to set a trap, making a covered pit and placing some bait atop the hole so that the monster would fall in and could be set alight, burning it to death. As vengeance, it created the first mosquitos. Glycon - Similar to Nāgas, these serpentine creatures are found mostly in the Europe and Romania, these blond-haired reptiles are mentioned in the mythology of the ancient Roman cultures. They have healing abilities are were thus worshipped as manifestations of certain deities by small cults, which still exist today to a certain degree. Gnefro - Dim-witted and dwarfish faeries, these creatures live in large groups near rivers and waterfalls in Italy, and are known to appear to lonely travelers at night, and taunt them with insults and pranks. They have weak magical abilities, and their pranks are rarely anything more harmful than simple annoyances. Some people suggest that they are related to boggarts or other household tricksters. Gnieciuch - Closely resembling redcaps, these diminutive Polish demons guard large hordes of money, and behave in a similar manner to succubi, appearing to human victims at night and choking them as they sleep. They are very protective of their headgear, however, and will have no choice but to pay a victim in enough money to fit inside the hat if the hat is stolen when the monster attacks. Gnome - Small and hairy creatures, these faeries are found in deep underground caverns worldwide, and are often depicted in modern garden sculptures. They are capable of moving through solid stone as easily as humans move through air, though are effected detrimentally by sunlight. They often guard precious metals and treasures in their rocky habitats, and are thus often followed by miners and explorers. Gnyan - Dwelling in Tibetan trees and mountains, these pestilential demons inflict human passersby with pathogens such as the black death, and are also known to cause extreme bad luck or misfortune. Research texts from the area name the native spirits of forests as Klu, but all ritualistic or magic-based publications instead use the name Gnyan. Goatman - Found in forested North American areas, especially within the Maryland and Pope Lick areas, these monstrous humanoids resemble the classic ideal of a satyr, with the hind-legs of a goat but the torso of a human. Some researchers have suggested that they are demonic in origin, or possibly indigenous species to the areas that they inhabit, though recent theories have suggested that they are the results of a botched genetic experiment. They are known to wield axes, and to attack cars. Goayr Heddagh - Truly bizarre phantom animals, these goat-like creatures are sometimes seen in the foggy mountains of the Isle of Man, and are said to be able to change the color of their bodies. They will haunt weary travelers and bring them bad luck, though will supposedly run off if challenged or attacked. Gobelin - Despite sharing their name with a sort of tapestry art, these small French faeries are completely unrelated to painting or creativity, and usually resemble diminutive old men that manage household chores in homes in Normandy. They are sometimes equated with goblins because of their similar names and vaguely analogous appearance, but they are actually more closely related to brownies. Goblin - 2-3ft tall in their true form, these faeries can possess people to gain a larger and more physically powerful form. They usually make their nests in damp and shadowy areas such as caves, though have adapted to live in sewers or crawlspace in modern times. They feed on human flesh by catching them in basic traps, and will compulsively collect gold or riches. Goborchinu - Monstrous Irish humanoids, these obscenely strong ogres resemble burly beings with the heads of horses, and are usually associated with faeries. In this respect, they are often used as thugs or hitmen by more intelligent supernatural beings. Because of their appearance, they are thought to be related to the tikbalang. Gold-Digging Ant - Found in both Africa and India, these large insects are said to be covered in hair, and to spend their time constantly digging up gold and precious stones in sandy areas. The locals of these areas will then collect the metals that the creatures find for them, making it a mutually beneficial relationship. Golem - Forged from clay, this being can be brought to life by a spell cast by a Jewish Rabbi during a time when their people are in peril. When bought to life, the beings will be the willing servants to these people, and can use their virtual indestructibility and superhuman strength to carry out their wishes. Golfu - Monstrous birds, these creatures are found in the mountains and grasslands of Malta, and walk on four legs like pterosaurs or griffins. They are relatives of owls, and can use their hideous screeching to petrify nearby aggressors and turn them into crude granite statues of their former selves. Goliath - Mentioned in the mythology described in the Judaeo-Christian Bible, these enormous giants are found in the deserts of the Middle East, and are usually used as warriors by tribes and cults. According to the Bible, the first member of their species was slain by a young boy named David, miraculously using only a slingshot. Likely because of this momentous defeat, the monsters are very rare today. Gonakadet - This massive fish is found in and around Iliamna Lake in Alaska, and is known to pester ships and boats, causing a monster legend to arise. It was known to the Native people as a water god, but has so far not exhibited any supernatural abilities. Gonggong - Manifesting as large black serpentine dragons, these Chinese demons are responsible for floods and deluges and the misery that these water-related natural disasters cause for the local population. They do this by literally manipulating the axial rotations of the planet, and the destruction that this generates is sometimes used to explain the direction in which the rivers and seas flow by Asian scholars. Goorialla - Also known as the rainbow serpent, this powerful Australian creature resembles a large snake with multicoloured scales, and is regarded as a creator deity in Aboriginal mythology, replenishing water supplies during droughts and producing mountains by its movements. It is known to control the weather of its surrounding area, unleashing destructive storms and lightning when it's angry and bringing replenishing rain to those that appease it. Local cultures assign it a role in fertility. Gooseberry Wife - Enormous hairy caterpillars that lurk among the gooseberry bushes of the Isle of Wight, these monstrous creatures are thought to be closely related to the Awd Goggie, and are classified as boogeymen because of their literary function to discourage children from misbehaving. However, they may be more widespread than previously thought, because a somewhat-smaller Gooseberry Wife was seen in England in the mid 1970s. Gorgades - Swift and agile, these ancient hairy humanoids are to be found on an isolated island off the coast of Africa according to the writings of ancient Greek explorers. They are thought to be similar to the satyroi, and the females of the species are well-known for their particularly long and ornate coats of hair. Gorgon - Hideous beasts, these creatures were created from a curse placed on a human family by a wrathful deity. They have a writhing nest of serpents for hair, and massive tusks as well as wings. Their gaze can turn people to stone, even when they are decapitated. Gorgoniy - Thought to be angelic in origin despite their dark and destructive mannerisms, these monstrous beasts are attested in Russian folklore, and are said to guard the gates of Heaven against trespassing mortals. They have some kind of an association with the famous archangel known as Gabriel, and act as his steeds. Gorillae - Highly intelligent compared to similar beings, these African hairy humanoids are easily mistaken for large apes or gorillas at first glance, and were discovered by a party of ancient Greek explorers. They live in tribal societies, with the females being the most ferocious warriors and thus the most respected of the species. Gorjala - Resembling enormous dark-skinned ogres with single eyes and the shells of turtles, these Brazilian giants are slow and stupid, but are known to capture and keep their prey for a long time, slowly eating them over an extended period. They are thought to be related to cyclopes, and are usually found in the cramped underground caves in which they keep their human captives. Goryō - Destructive and vengeful Japanese ghosts formed from the wrathful souls of either those who were members of aristocratic classes in life or those who were martyred, and are capable of destroying crops as well as summoning earthquakes or typhoons. The only way to quell the wrath of one of the spirits was to ask a Yamabushi to perform a certain rite that would 'tame' the entity. There are some stories of the ghosts being worshipped as deities as a form of appeasement. Gougou - Also known as Kuku, these semi-aquatic North American giants are described as feminine humanoids covered in scales, and are known to kidnap humans and transport them in sacks that they hold over their shoulders, which are big enough to contain entire ships. They are known to prey on people in canoes or walking close to waterways, camouflaging themselves as rocks. Their name has been used to mean 'earthquake', seeing as their footsteps literally shake the earth due to their size. Graeae - Similar to the norns or other psychic crones, these ancient Greek humanoids take the forms of grey-haired women, and are known to only have one eye and one tooth between the three of them, which they constantly share in order to see into the future. It is said that the hero Perseus stole their eye whilst on a quest, so that he could ransom it and gain information from the strange faeries. Grafton Monster - Sometimes inaccurately referred to as the 'headless horror', this strange ogre-like beast was first seen lumbering along by the side of a North American road in 1965. It has smooth skin like that of a seal, and a neck that bends to such a degree that it often appears to be headless. The beast moves slowly, though seems aggressive towards humans. Grafton Monster - Sometimes referred to as the 'headless horror' because of its bizarre appearance, this strange ogre-like aberration was first seen lumbering along by the side of a road in the North American state of West Virginia in 1965. It has smooth skin like that of a seal, and a notable lack of a head, leading some to suggest an ultraterrestrial or alien origin, or at least a connection with Mothman or the Flatwoods Monster. The beast moves slowly, though seems aggressive towards humans. Graoully - Serpentine and incredibly toxic, these deadly French dragons resemble small wyverns with slightly demonic features, and are capable of controlling dragons and serpents in their nearby area. There is a story recorded in the folklore of the country about a saint who came to the area, and vanquished the demonic monster with the sign of the cross. Graysli - Short and stout relatives of Grey aliens, these ancient beings are thought to have been worshiped in Egyptian society, and some of the first pyramids were built in their honor. They are said to have gifted humanity with advanced technology, explaining the relative advancement of ancient Egyptian society compared with the rest of the world. These beings last visited Earth in 2004, and have not been seen since. Great Galactic Ghoul - Responsible for the catastrophic failures of innumerable missions to land on Mars through means such as inexplicable technology failures or suddenly-appearing storms, this powerful being's name was first coined as a joke within the space agency. Some potential landers have missed the Red Planet entirely, and only a third of all missions have been successful. It also seems that the Ghoul's curse extends to anything Mars-themed, like Mars exploration video games and films. Green Child - Originally appearing in the quaint English village of Woolpit during the medieval period, these strange beings are thought by some to be a relatively-unknown branch of human evolution. They very clearly share a similar culture and religion to other humans, referring to their European subterranean home as St Martin's Land, but also speak an unintelligible language and seem to be herbivorous. Green Knight - Known from Arthurian folklore, this supernatural entity appears whenever the forest and natural climate of Britain is threatened. It is vicious to those that it deems threats, and is said to have a history with Sir Gawain of the Round Table. Green Man - The faces of these elemental faeries have become iconic due to their common usage on doorways and pottery fashioned by pagan groups in medieval times, and thus the creatures are easily recognizable. They only emerge during Springtime, and are said to aid in the rebirth and sprouting of plants and animals in their area. Their leafy bodies allow them to easily camouflage themselves among foliage. Green-Faced Monkey - Resembling no other known hairy humanoid, this incredibly strange primate was sighted in the woodlands of England during 1996. It has a large and flat face, and usually lives high up in trees, displaying between members of its species using their vibrant, green faces. Gremlin - Having been reported since the 1920s, these destructive faeries are said to wreak havoc on airplanes by breaking vital components or causing inexplicable errors. They caused the most trouble during World War II, when they became entrenched in the fearful legends of both sides. Though they are rarely seen now, it is wise to be wary when traveling at high altitudes. Grendel - The propagator of this species was mentioned in Anglo-Saxon folklore, and living specimens can be found in Britain and Europe. They are vicious creatures, and are similar to trolls in appearance. The females of the species are very different, however, and resemble draconic reptiles more than monstrous humanoids. Gretchin - Small and cowardly relatives of goblins and orcs mentioned in modern fantasy literature, these green-skinned beings resemble toads or frogs with long ears and grasping fingers and stubby legs. They often use primitive weapons and firearms to hurt their victims, and are used in great numbers as henchmen by other, more intelligent faeries. Grey - Thought to have first appeared on Earth during Biblical times when they were described as 'frog demons' but later coming to the public eye due to the Roswell Crash, these alien beings resemble humanoids with large heads and black eyes. They are commonly associated with the nighttime abductions of innocent human victims, and horrific experiments that are performed on these witnesses. Some researchers have speculated that they may be humans from the future, or beings from another dimension, much like the ultraterrestrials. Grey Ghost of Kinchafoonee - Viciously attacking a lumberjack in the wilds of North America in 1955, this monstrous hairy humanoid is thought to be related to Momo or the Honey Island Swamp Monster, and appears as a gorilla-like creature with the head of a pig or wild boar. The witness, who was a farmer in the wilderness of Georgia, was left with noticeable scratch marks on his body, lending credence to his story. Despite its name, it is fully corporeal. Griff - These small supernatural creatures are found in temperate regions such as the forests and mountains of Europe, where they are often kept as pets by magic users. They are closely related to griffins, but are much smaller and less vicious, and are sometimes seen to resemble local birds and mammals instead of eagles and lions. Griffin - Found in areas such as Greece, Italy and what was once Persia, these beasts resemble hybrids of a lion and a large eagle. They are known to congregate in small groups in and around caves and mountains, and will steal gold and jewels from villages around them, which they will then guard viciously against all potential thieves or competitors. Grig - Closely related to pixies and other small faeries, these British creatures usually resemble a hybrid of a humanoid and a cricket, and are able to produce fine music by rubbing their legs together. They are usually found in apple orchards or farms, and are mostly helpful despite sometimes stealing from human visitors by way of harmless mischief. Grigori - As some of the first angels to ever come to Earth, these beings were sent to watch and protect humans by God, and were armed with deadly weapons that resemble swords. However, they eventually became jealous of humans and started to feed on their souls, and this has led to them becoming hunted down by other angels as wanted fugitives. Grim Reaper - Referred to in numerous cultures across the world, these skeletal angels are responsible for maintaining the natural process of death throughout the universe, reaping souls using their iconic scythes. They are in charge of other reapers in their vicinity, and their presence usually attracts great crowds of the lower beings. Although they are often blamed for the phenomenon, they do not cause death, but rather allow it to function. Grimlock - Despite sharing their name with a famous fictional robotic dinosaur, these monstrous relatives of ogres live in caves beneath Europe, and have lost their sight due to the complete darkness of their habitat. They are primitive beings that make their clothes out of animal skins, and fashion crude weapons from bones and stone. Although they are deadly to those inside their caves, the sunlight will cause their skin to blister. They were first mentioned in modern fantasy literature. Grindylow - These ugly little water spirits use come from Britain, and use their long and sinuous arms to drag children who stray too close to lakes down to their deaths. They are classified as faeries, and so can thus be warded off using iron weaponry. Grine - Forming in a parallel universe each time another human is born, these horned djinn are referred to in the mythology of Africa and Morocco, and carry out variations of the occupation held by their human equivalents. The actions of the human influence the grine, and the actions of the grine can influence and change those carried out by the human. Grinning Man - Broad-shouldered and tall, these alien humanoids have been witnessed all over the world in recent years, and are thought to be associated with Men in Black reports, though are sometimes seen to stalk random human victims or to appear to people in their own bedrooms, seemingly feeding on the fear that they generate. Their most distinguishable features are their obscene grins and beady eyes, and the fact that they seem to lack any other facial features such as noses or hair. They are classified as ultraterrestrials. Groac'h - Malevolent female faeries, these creatures inhabit lakes and ponds, and will often attempt to lure human victims close to the water's edge using shining trinkets and treasure. They will then drag their prey under the water by grabbing their ankles, and will eat their corpse. They often use thick blankets of algae and pondweed to hide their presence. Grootslang - This supernatural, South African creature appears as a massive elephant with the tail of a snake, and will obsessively collect gems and diamonds. They are cruel creatures, and will kidnap and eat those who stray too close to their cave habitats. Despite mostly living underground, they will also sometimes be found in lakes and rivers. Groß Tinz Writing Tremors - Spreading rapidly through the student body of a school in the Polish village of Tyniec Legnicki (also known as Groß Tinz) in 1892, this bizarre phantom infection would first make itself known as hand tremors before developing into debilitating full-body seizures. The seizures then spread to 19 other students, before reappearing to infect a total of 47 more students in Basal school in Switzerland over a period of twelve years. It was attributed to mass hysteria. Großmann - These faceless creatures were known from the folklore of Germany, but have since become much more prominent in the United States where they are often mistaken for the legendary slenderman. They can shapeshift to disguise themselves as humans, though must drain the life-force of a young human victim every 100 years in order to survive. Grugach - These hairy, naked Irish faeries are found in the cellars and basements of large and old houses, and will help with household chores in exchange for a steady supply of gold. They are expert at caring for cattle, and are often 'employed' by overworked farmers. Like many similar household faeries, they will turn malicious if they are not paid correctly. Grýla - Found mostly in the mountains of Iceland, these hideous female trolls are thought to be associated with Christmas in local tradition, and play a similar boogeyman role to the Krampus. They are capable of detecting which children have been naughty and disobedient throughout the year, and will then come down from the mountains to kidnap them during the Yuletide season. These victims are then made into stew. Gryllus - These unintelligent creatures were featured in medieval European manuscripts, and resemble an oversized human head on two legs. They tend to simply stumble after those that they deem to be appropriate masters, and will become incredibly attached to these people. Gryphon - Although their name is homophonic with the far more common griffins, these creatures are actually closer in appearance to winged protoceratops dinosaurs. They are sparsely distributed throughout Greece, where they make small nests filled with several eggs, which both the males and the females will viciously protect. Gryps - Often described as having the bodies of horses and the heads of mighty eagles, these strange creatures usually serve as ferocious guardians for deposits of minerals such as gold. They were commonly used as symbols of guardianship in Greek and Roman artwork, and large natural populations of the creatures could be found around caves in the Middle East, according to ancient explorers. Gryttie - Lurking in deep and icy bodies of water across Sweden, these monstrous aquatic mammals are thought by some scientists to be relatives of walruses or sea-cows, and have been seen since 1800. More research has recently gone into locating one of these swimming monsters, and a vast network of underground caves have been discovered to be suitable habitat. Guadalcanal Reptoid - Japanese troops are said to have encountered these strange, long-tailed beings while stationed on their namesake Solomon Island during World War II. The creatures appear as combinations of human and reptilian features, but are not known to be alien in origin unlike other reptilian humanoids. According to the accounts in which the creatures were first mentioned, they constructed a statue on the island depicting one of their kind clutching a raygun in its tail. Guajona - Known from Cantabrian legends, these vampiric Spanish witches take on the forms of hideously disfigured humanoid females with vaguely avian features such as bird-like legs and beaked noses, and are said to emerge from under the ground at night to drain the blood of children and adults in homes they silently enter. They have single, grotesquely-elongated teeth in their mouths which they insert into the veins of their victims to feed, leaving them sickly and pale in the mornings. Guánica Gargoyle - Encounters with these bloodsucking flying beasts are thought to have begun in the 1990s, though are known to have continued at least through to 2010. The creatures are described as bat-like, and are mostly seen around their namesake area in Puerto Rico, where they attack and kill livestock. It is unknown if they are related to the chupacabra, or whether they are evolutionary competitors. Guánica Gargoyle - Encounters with these bloodsucking flying beasts are thought to have begun in the 1990s, though are known to have continued at least through to 2010. The creatures are described as bat-like, and are mostly seen around their namesake area in Puerto Rico, where they attack and kill livestock. Guardian Angel - These incorporeal beings are not actually angels, but are rather human spirits that will follow and protect their living relatives. A person can have more than one guardian angel depending on their family size or their lifestyle. Gudiao - These predatory birds resemble silver-colored eagles with horns on their forehead and beak, and live in the mountainous areas of China and Asia. Not much is known about the creatures, seeing as most of the information was featured in ancient Chinese bestiaries that have now been lost to time. They are said to make sounds akin to the cries of a human child in order to lure their prey closer. Guecubu - When a particularly vicious criminal is executed, they have a chance of reanimating as one of these undead fiends, even if their bodies are burnt and their ashes are scattered. Their ghastly forms are made from as much bone as it is dirt, and they have no memory of their past life except a strong lust for vengeance. This wrath will not only be concentrated on those that executed them, but entire villages at a time. Guédé - Acting as reapers and psychopomps in the voodoo religion of Haiti, these African spirits are thought to be closely related to the legendary Baron Samedi, and structure their entire species in a similar manner to a modern nuclear family. They will protect the lives of those who are not destined to die at a particular moment, and guard the natural order. Offerings of food and alcohol are offered during religious ceremonies to these beings, out of fear that they will become vengeful. Gug - Almost alien-seeming, these subterranean abominations were undiscovered by humanity until the writings of HP Lovecraft were published. They seem to be intelligent, though are also prone to unstoppable violent rages, often killing many innocent bystanders. They have vertical mouths down the middle of their heads, and two bright pink eyes that are inefficient at seeing above-ground. Gugalanna - Deadly and rage-filled, these massive angelic bulls are often used as weapons by Babylonian deities, sent to punish or test human heroes or the populations of entire areas. They are capable of tearing through cities and villages using their enormous size and brute strength. One of them is said to have been killed by the Middle Eastern hero Gilgamesh. Guhin - Despite resembling humanoid wolves or dogs, these mountain-dwelling Japanese creatures are thought to actually be closer to tengus in their heritage. They make strange noises and produce glowing lights to spook human intruders who may seek to damage their habitat, though are also known to have a mutually beneficial relationship with some mountainous communities or lumberjacks. Guǐ huǒ - Fiery ghost manifestations, these Chinese entities appear in graveyards and battlegrounds, or in other places where there are large amounts of corpses, these will-o-the-wisp-like beings are thought to be created from the phosphorescent gases that escape from decaying human bodies. These vapours sometimes ignite when exposed to hot or humid conditions, producing sporadic bursts of aerial flames on Summer nights. The same term is sometimes used to refer to ball lightning. Guiafairo - Producing strange nauseating chemicals that elicit extreme fear responses, these enormous ghoulish bats are feared in the local cultures of West Africa. They are found mostly in mountains and on rocky outcrops, and are said to use their massive claws to dismember their prey. Strangely, they have the ability to open locked doors. Guivre - Known as extremely aggressive creatures in the folklore of ancient France, these demonic dragons were said to patrol the countryside and kill unwary travelers with their poisonous breath. However, they are afraid of naked humans and will blush and look away upon seeing them, giving potential victims time to get away. Gulon - Symbolic of gluttony in local Scandinavian folklore, these ferocious faery wolverines are said to eat as much as their stomachs can handle and then jam themselves between two trees until the food is squeezed out of them. They will then continue to consume the flesh and bones of anything and everything that they can find. It is said that the blood of one of these creatures mixed with honey creates a powerful aphrodisiac. Gulyabani - Resembling werewolves or ghouls, these monstrous Turkish creatures are referred to as dwelling in deserts and taking a sick pleasure from terrifying unfortunate travelers and riding horses, tangling and braiding their manes into intricate knots. They are usually found in graveyards and abandoned locations. Similar to some Djinn, the creatures will be forced to work for humans as servants if they are stabbed in the back of the neck with a sewing needle. Gumberoo - Seemingly silly when first described, these creatures appear as hairless black bears with large bellies and rubbery skin. They are known to be ravenous eaters, and will consume entire horses and then instantly move onto finding more food. They will make their dens in wooded areas, and their rubbery skin results in any projectile fired at them bouncing back and hitting the person who fired it. Gumpee Nimitr - Dwelling in the Himmapan Forest found among the Himalayas Mountains just below the Buddhist Heavens, but commonly depicted in the artwork of India and Thailand, these unique hybrid creatures are thought to be related to kinnaras, and resemble angelic humanoids with reptilian legs, often compared to those of crocodiles. The forest in which they dwell may be comparable to the Faery Realm, seeing as it is usually invisible to the human eye. Gurulu - Resembling gigantic harpies, these monstrous Sri Lankan ogres live in mountainous areas, and have been known to swoop down on unsuspecting travelers to kill them and feed on their flesh. They are thought by some to be corrupted manifestations of the deity known as Garuda, and are mentioned in the Buddhist religion of their home area. Gurulu Raksha - Said to have accompanied the savage rakshasas in ruling over the country of Sri Lanka in ancient times, these demonic winged creatures feed on the flesh of their human victims, and have a natural adversity with snakes and serpents. They are often depicted in exaggerated masks and headdresses worn by dancers during religious festivals, and such clothing is said to scare away evil spirits. Gurumuka - Appearing as spindly stick-like humanoids related to the Mimi, these Australian vampires hide among barren foliage in the Outback, and pounce on lonely travelers and bite them with protruding fangs. If these victims are not given magic-imbued medical attention from a wise shaman within a day, they will die in great pain. The only way to completely prevent an attack from one of these monsters is by traveling in groups and avoiding darkness. Gux - Spoken of in the folklore of the Ahtna people of Alaska and North America, these monstrous creatures are poorly described in the mythology itself, but their name means 'scaled one', and so they are either thought to be enormous fish or possibly chitinous aquatic insects. They lurk in lakes and rivers, and are known to eat people that stray too close. Other names for the same creature include Ġu∙x and Gook. Guyascutus - Thought to be mammalian in heritage, these rare creatures are found in the mountain peaks of North America, and are said to resemble a hybrid of a deer and a razorback hog. Their legs are apparently uneven in length to help with fast climbing of the craggy rocks, and are thus slow on flat surfaces. There is a story about a farmer who bred the perfect sheep, that could climb on mountains though were slow on roads. Gwiber - Resembling massive serpents with bodies covered in slimy feathers, these terrifying winged dragons lurk in rivers and lakes across Wales, and prey on humans and livestock the stray too close to the water. They kill their prey by making vicious bites to their necks using their viper-like teeth, and are also capable of spitting venom. According to Welsh mythology, a great hero attempted to hunt one of these beasts only to be promptly humiliated and killed. Gwisin - Interfering with technological devices and household objects and appliances, these mischievous Korean ghosts are supposedly born when someone dies without completing all of the goals that they had set for themselves during life. They are usually found in abandoned school and graveyards, and they are known to be visible in photographs and videos. Gwrach-y-Rhibyn - Lurking in and around Welsh rivers and crossroads, these hideous winged faeries will invisibly stalk their prey until they pass on of these said areas, and then they will suddenly become tangible and attack viciously. They emit frightful shrieks similar to those of banshees and other Welsh monsters, and are capable of taking flight using their bat-like wings. All those that hear their screams are doomed to die. Gwragedd Annwn - Beautiful feminine faeries dwelling in Welsh rivers and lakes, these nymph-like entities are known to take human men as their husbands, but to require a very specific offering as a courtship measure (usually half-baked bread), and to completely vanish from the relationship and from our realm if they are struck three times by their husbands. The hybrid children generated from these unisons are called Plant Annwn. They were originally created from women who insulted Saint Patrick. Gwrgi Garwlwyd - Fighting against various Arthurian heroes in Welsh literature, these vicious cynocephali are named after the first member of their species, who was eventually assassinated after massacring British soldiers. They act as formidable warriors and fearsome warlords, leading hordes of the werewolf-like beings against potential invading armies. Gwyllgi - Appearing akin to a dire wolf with blazing eyes and flaming breath, this Welsh hellhound is said to haunt roads and graveyards at night. It seems considerably larger and more physically powerful than its kin, often approaching the size of a full-grown bear. It is sometimes known as the 'black hound of destiny', which suggests that it may have some influence over the fates of those who see it. Gwyllion - Ugly faeries, these Welsh creatures lurk atop mountains and among herds of sheep or goats, and are said to watch travelers with ominous intent. They are sometimes known to lure travelers astray into deadly terrain, and have a strong fear of bright light and storms. Because of this, they will become benevolent if allowed to stay inside during tempests and windstorms. Gylou - Haunting pregnant mothers or newborn children, these demonic ghosts usually appear as haggish humanoids, and are thought to be the wrathful ghosts of human women who died without having children. They are spoken of in the literature of ancient Greece, and are said to be repelled by the wearing of certain gemstone amulets during pregnancy. Gynosphinx - Beautiful but deadly, these duplicitous creatures are known from Egypt and other African regions, and resemble a hybrid of a lion and a human female. They live in mountains, and will commonly also have wings akin to those of an eagle. They enjoy asking travelers riddles, and if the traveler cannot answer the riddle then the monster will devour them. Gyochu - Microscopic organisms, these beings have not been effectively studied at the time of writing, though it is known that they are able to inflict leprosy-like symptoms on those that they enter. They were known as demons in Japanese mythology, though it is more likely that they are related to tardigrades. Gyorn Gyorn - Also named 'Bradshaws' after the archaeologist that discovered the first evidence for their existence, these bizarre Australian humanoids are similar to nephilim, and are thought to have existed on the continent before the Wandjina appeared and created laws and order. They usually appear as spindly humanoids with tassel-like garments covering their bodies, and sometimes have human-like heads though more commonly have conical foreheads and beak-like faces. H’awouahoua - Mentioned in the Algerian mythology of North Africa, this bizarre hybrid boogeyman resembles an aberrant amalgamation of animal features, with one arm bearing the claw of a lobster and the other ending with a monkey's paw, the tail of a giant scorpion and a face resembling that of an ape surrounded by living serpents waiting to attack victims. It wears a long, patched coat made from the clothes of all the children it has eaten after catching them with its extreme speed. Ha’lx’aixxtlenox - More simply known as 'Killer Whale People', these gigantic merfolk are similar to selkies and resemble giant humanoids in their true form, but are known to use enchanted skins to assume the forms of orca whales. They are held in high regard in the Haida culutre of North America, as they are in control of the flow of fish and other marine food supplies in their habitat, and are offered sacrifices of grease and tobacco because of this. Underwater, they live in ornate villages. Haakapainiži - Southwest American creatures, these foul beasts will either take on the form of a kindly old man or a giant grasshopper, and will feed on human children which they stuff into the basket that they carry on their backs. They will sing loudly and whimsically, which seems to have an enchanting effect on nearby people, both children and adults. In order to dismember their prey and attack victims, they will use their viciously spiked limbs. Habarbar - Capable of killing human victims with a single bite, these deadly reptiles were born when a displeased deity combined the features of a large lizard and a snake, according to the teachings of the Jewish faith. They are considerably rarer nowadays, though still lurk around some farmlands in the Middle East. Habergeiß - Associated with the Perchten Runs traditions in Austrian and German traditions, these shapeshifting boogeymen are similar to the Krampus in that they carry crates called 'Zistl' on their backs, using these containers to carry away badly-behaved children. Due to their shapeshifting nature, they are recorded to take many different forms, including that of a three-legged goat or a vampiric bird with red and yellow feathers. Seeing one of these monsters is considered to mean bad luck. Habit - Taking control of human bodies all throughout history, this terrifying entity is known from modern North American urban legends, and is said to force those that it possesses into committing hideous crimes such as murders and torture. There is some indication that it was once a human mental patient, though it has since ascended to become a demonic being. Unlike other demons, its eyes glow purple when it is in its true form. Hábrók - According to Norse mythological sources, these enormous birds are the pinnacle of hawks that can be trained to hunt, because of their long claws and massive size. Very little is known about the lifestyle or habitat of these creatures, though some speculate that they may dwell in mountain territories due to large footprints found in these areas. Hachishakusama - Appearing as an impossibly tall, pale humanoid woman, this terrifying Japanese boogeyman makes a distinctive sound akin to a masculine voice saying 'po po po'. It usually targets young children, using its strange voice to mimic the calls of their parents and loved ones in order to lead them away. When it is seen, it resembles a strange woman with a wide-brimmed hat and a white Summer dress. Hadhayosh - Resembling monstrous oxen with flaming bronze skin and six horns, these massive beasts are mentioned in the folklore of the Middle East, in which their flesh is said to grant immortality if eaten. Despite their mighty size and appearance, they live in a similar manner to regular cattle, though they will charge to deadly force and speed if provoked. Haemorrhois - This awful snake is found in European areas, and is known for its deadly venom which can cause the victim's blood to leave their body extremely quickly. They have bright red scales and a yellowish underbelly, and have two scaly horns on their head like those of vipers. When infected by the venom, the victim will bleed from their mouth, eyes, nose and pores, and can only be saved using medication made from vine leaves and honey. Haetae - Inherently righteous creatures, these one-horned beasts are known from the folklore of Korea and Asia, and were often used in sculpture form to guard palaces and temples from damage or attack. They have bodies that resemble lions covered in thick grey scales, and are incredibly quick and savage when attacking potential threats to themselves or their masters. Hafaza - Helping the souls of their human counterparts fight off attacks by demons or evil Djinn, these Middle-Eastern guardian angels are known from Islamic traditions, in which it is said that Allah appoints two of their number to watch over specific humans and record their good and bad deeds throughout their lives, like the Kiraman Katibin. The information that they collect will be used on Judgement Day to determine if the people they have been guarding are worthy of entry to Paradise. Hafgufa - Enormous in mass and temperament, these monstrous sea beasts are spoken of in the folklore of Norway and Iceland, in which they are said to often be mistaken for small islands. They have a net of fronds under their chins that they poke up from the surface of the water during low-tide, attempting to lure ships close under the belief that they are vegetation. Hafmaður - A common sight for ancient Icelandic sailors, these strange humanoid merfolk were often equated with other mermen, and were said to be omens of storms or other conditions which could lead to loss of life at sea. Strangely, it seems that they are more well adapted for life on land than in the water, but will only come ashore to escape danger, and will avoid humans. Some of them are vicious and cannibalistic, and must be killed using silver bullets or buttons. Hafstrambi - Found in the choppy coastal waters of Greenland, these enormous creatures resemble pillars of rocks or cliffs when viewed from above the water, though are thought to have enormous tails like those of merfolk below the surface. Their appearance is thought to foretell storms and maritime disasters, and they demonstrate which sailors and boats will be the casualties of these occurences by the direction in which they plunge back into the water. Hag - These faeries will assume the form of a beautiful woman during the day, but will appear as monstrous witch-like beings during the night. They will sit atop the chest of their victims as they sleep and cause hideous nightmares and paralysis. They can only be reliably killed whilst they are doing this, but can also create real-world incarnations of their victims' nightmares to defend themselves. Hagan Mystery Creature - Related to the African gambo, this large aquatic monotreme resembles a primitive cetacean with a beak like that of a platypus. It was found washed up on a Californian beach in 1979, and was said to be roughly 10 foot long with a blowhole like that of a whale. Other creatures like it have not been seen since, which leads to speculation that it may either be very rare or extinct. Hagondes - Hook-nosed cannibalistic creatures, these monsters were known from Native American folklore before coming to prominence in the modern day. They resemble ghastly clowns, often with inexplicably inhuman features. In 2016, there was a rash of sightings of these creatures all around the globe, which prompted public panic. Hagseed - Usually unintelligent and subservient, these beings are born from powerful dark magic users such as crones or warlocks, and will be heavily mutated and hunchbacked in appearance. Their existence is known to have inspired the Shakespeare character 'Caliban', and it is by this name that their species is sometimes known. To quote Shakespeare, no nurture can combat their nature, meaning that they are genetically inclined to evil. Hahakigami - Brooms were originally used as ritual objects in Japan, cleansing rooms and buildings of evil spirits and destructive energies with sweeping motions. However, this use makes them extremely liable to becoming Tsukumogami, and when they gain sentience they can often be seen on Autumnal streets across Japan, sweeping wildly at blowing leaves. They can sometimes also be used as helpful charms against evil spirits, or for good luck during childbirth. Hahn Saburo - Normally invisible unless hunting prey, these vampiric Indian spirits resemble will-o-the-wisps in their true forms, appearing as balls of light or lanterns, and are known to lure unwary travelers deep into forests by either making strange noises or summoning packs of hellhounds to chase them towards them. Once the travelers have been driven satisfactorily far away from any sort of help, the vampire will drain their blood before leaving their bodies for the hellhounds to devour. Hai Ho Shang - Similar to sea-monks and bishop-fish, these hostile Chinese merfolk resemble large fish with the shaved heads of monks or other clergymen. They have amazing strength for their size, and can drag entire ships beneath the waves with ease. The only way to protect vessels against attacks is by performing a specific ritual dance, or by burning feathers. Haietlik - Known from Native American lore, these enormous electric eels live in the seas surrounding Canada, and supposedly prey on orcas. Instead of being terrified, fishermen who see these creatures believe that they bring good luck. However, if their orca prey are removed from them, they have been known to lash out at humans in the vicinity. Ha-ilī’las - Patrolling the coastline of Canada in an enormous ship resembling a traditional European galleon, this terrifying being is the embodiment of smallpox, and is thought to derive its appearance from the European settlers that brought the smallpox pathogen to the Haida nation, nearly resulting in its total destruction. It is not considered evil, but is known to send awful epidemics out into the world when it is displeased, such as when it failed to marry one of the Moon's daughters. Hai-Riyo - These rare oriental dragons are found in the mountains and swamps of China, and are covered in birdlike feathers. They feed on mid-sized animals such as deer or pigs, but are feared by locals because of their striking and unusually large wings. Hairy Dwarf – Common in the early days of the flying saucer craze, these small hairy humanoids are among the many bizarre ultraterrestrials that are assumed to be aliens by modern witnesses. They were first recorded in 1954, when a group of them emerged from a flying vehicle and attempted to forcibly abduct a group of travelers in Venezuela. Their skin has a texture similar to metal, making it virtually impenetrable. Hai-Uri - Mentioned in the Khoikhoi and Sān mythology of Southern Africa, these bizarre humanoids are surprisingly agile despite literally only having half their bodies, with normal human morphology split vertically down the middle so that they only have one arm and one leg. They delight in frightening humans, and are capable of jumping over bushes and pieces of scrub in pursuit of terrified victims. Some researchers have suggested a relation to the Tokoloshe due to their tricksterish nature. Hakenmann - Although easily mistaken for human murderers and psychopaths at first glance, these malevolent Germanic water spirits are more closely related to nixies and other aquatic faeries, and use vicious fisherman's hooks to drag their victims to watery graves. Although they usually appear in humanoid form, they have also been known to manifest as hideous merfolk-like creatures when fully submerged in water. Hala - Destructive Bulgarian demons, these monsters are said to be solely focused on guiding devastating hailstorms over areas of population and agriculture. If one of the creatures is encountered, they will usually have an extremely adverse effect on the viewer's mental and physical health. However, they have been known to establish positive relationships with some humans who treat them with respect. Halifax Slasher - Stalking isolated English towns during 1938, this violent tulpa was born from the behavior of local young people who gave themselves scars and bruises and then attributed it to a rampaging madman. The widespread belief in such a being provided the concept with physical life, and it acted as a boogeyman figure, wielding either a large mallet or a razor blade. Hall Prowler - Stalking the emotionally-charged corridors of schools and colleges, these nebulous creatures are found in almost all schools, especially across North America where urban legends are especially rife. A famous example of one of these beings is the diminutive and long-clawed entity that haunts a grammar school in Italy's Campania, which has been witnessed by over 30 students since April of 2005, but they have strangely been warned not to approach the press, suggesting a coverup. Ham Vareti - Mentioned in the literature of Zoroastrianism, these Middle-Eastern ghosts represent the souls of deceased heroes and warriors, and are known to linger on Earth to help their descendants. They are regarded as incredibly potent and powerful spirits, retaining all of the fighting skill that they had in life, and using these abilities to defend their bloodline from harm. Not much else is known about them, but they usually appear as traditional Persian warriors. Hamadryad - Living in trees across the Grecian Islands, these spirits are usually incorporeal, though can cause the trees that they inhabit to take on humanoid form. If the trees that the beings are attached to dies, the being itself will also die, and it is for this reason that hamadryads will attack those who seek to harm their trees. Hameh - Described in the Arabian mythology of the Middle East, these beautiful vampiric creatures are formed from the vengeful souls of those who have been murdered, and resemble birds with either bright green or purple feathers. Screeching when they see murders taking place, they emit a loud and monotonous cry of 'iskoonee', which translates as a plea for blood. They will tenaciously seek out the individual who murdered them in life, and once they have exsanguinated them they will finally die. Hamou Ukaiou - Married to Aisha Qandisha, this malicious Afrit is known from the folklore of Morocco, in which it is said to pursue women travelling along at night with the intention of attacking and devouring them, much as his wife does to men. Strangely, both members of this deadly Djinn couple can be frightened away if one of their intended victims sharpens a knife on the ground in front of them. Despite its evident power, very little else is known about it. Hamrammr - Known from ancient Icelandic literature, these shapeshifting magic users use a specific spell that enables them to transform into, and gain the abilities of, animals that they have eaten. They gain more power as they kill and consume more animals, eventually becoming biologically immortal. Some modern witches have attempted to emulate their power, but have not succeeded. Hanako-San - Supposedly killed in an air raid during World War II, this wrathful spirit inhabits the sewer systems and bathrooms of Japan, and will appear to victims when its name is called. It was originally a young girl, and will now drag victims down into the sewers to act as company and friends for it. Usually, all that is seen is its pale hand, though it is also said to wear a red dress. Haniver - Resembling vaguely humanoid stingrays, these amphibians are found in the brackish waters around France. They are often captured by fishermen and taken back as trophies or as tokens of their bravery, despite their passive behavior in the wild. Hannya - Feeding exclusively off beautiful women and infants, these green-scaled Japanese demons resemble Onis with long horns, flaming eyes and forked tongues, and are usually found near the sea or other sources of water, but will never be too far away from human settlements. They will creep into the houses of their female victims and emit a loud screech, shocking them enough to be possessed and slowly driven to madness and cannibalism, eventually devouring children and becoming monsters. Hannya - These parasitic demons take on the form of Japanese theatrical masks, and will possess any person who wears them. The masks will then become impossible to remove without exorcism, and the victim will gain the ability to breathe fire and become invulnerable to conventional weaponry. Like all demons, they are vulnerable to salt and iron weapons. Hantu Anak Gua Batu - Limestone caves are said the be the dwellings of these Malaysian elemental spirits, which are often called upon by shamans and warlocks. Witnesses say that they are floating creatures with glowing red eyes, and spiky structures on their flesh that mimic stalagmites. They are sometimes referred to as ghosts, though are not undead. Hantu Batu - Playful Malaysian rock poltergeists, these creatures are known to throw alarming quantities of rocks and pebbles at passersby, and can even cause rainstorms of stones and boulders. They are mostly harmless, though are territorial and are thus prone to throwing stones at passing vehicles that invade their territory. Hantu Daguk - Taking the form of a swirling black cloud of amorphous vapour, these Malaysian ghosts are formed from the souls of murder victims. They are often found on roads or highways, blocking drivers and reducing visibility. This behavior is known to cause fatalities and inexplicable car crashes. Hantu Denai - Malaysian demons associated with hunting, these ancient spirits live in jungles where they hide in the paths made by prey animals moving through the underbrush, attacking hunters as they follow the aforementioned animals. They are not known to be lethal, but will instead shapeshift into hideous animalistic forms and imitate the sounds of feared wild animals to drive the hunters out of the forest and protect the flora and fauna of the jungles in which they live. Hantu Jembalang - Ancient beings of earth and mountains, these massive creatures are known to attack and bring ruinous destruction to those who exploit the land's resources. Their capabilities are so feared by some Malaysian locals that an offering is made to them every time the soil is disturbed. Hantu Penyardin - Resembling dog-headed demons much like Psoglavs, these despicable canine creatures were once only to be found in caves and alcoves close to the sea in Malaysia, but they have since spread to the Polynesian Islands. Despite their obviously predatory morphology, they do not feed on human flesh, but will instead consume the souls of their victims. Very little is known about them, but their name is sometimes said to be synonymous for 'vampire'. Hantu Tinggi - Towering tree-like spirits found deep in the forests of Malaysia, these bizarre entities are said to be so tall that humans can only see them from the waist down, and their heads touch the sky while their legs are mistaken for trees. Making eye-contact with them will cause humans to become ill, and they are known to grow rapidly in height as they are approached, eventually grabbing humans and teleporting them to random locations. Attacks can be prevented by ignoring the beings. Hapinunu - Feeding on the flesh of children, these South American vampires resemble female winged humanoids with large, pendulous breasts that they use to pick up and kidnap children and other victims. When Christianity entered the region, the mythology surrounding these nocturnal beings was changed to suggest that they were dark magic users and enemies of the Judaeo-Christian God. Hapyxelor - Almost defying description, these carnivorous monsters dwell in deep ponds and lakes across Canada, and have tall fins and three eyes. They were first witnessed in 1941, and they have tusk-like teeth that they use to dig shellfish out of muddy riverbeds. Their strange name comes from a term that popped into the head of the first witness upon seeing one of them crossing a body of water. Haradashi - Despite their uncanny appearance, these Japanese spirits are friendly and kind, and use their shapeshifting abilities to manifest comical faces onto their exposed bellies for the sole purpose of making people around them laugh. They will be drawn to those who are lonely and depressed, especially those who are suffering from alcoholism (due to the creatures' fondness for sake) and will perform ridiculous dances to cheer them up. Sometimes they lead travelers in bad weather to shelter. Haraja - Capable of driving people insane or literally killing them using extreme fear, this feminine Djinn is found in the Doukkala region of Morocco where she is known to dwell in dark bodies of water and locations that are reputed to be haunted, shapeshifting into many different forms to best frighten her victims, such as a goat or a red wolf. Some researchers have suggested that she might be related to Aisha Qandisha due to her watery habitat and the often-sexualised forms she assumes. Harimau Jadian - Inheriting the power of transformation from a lineage of dark magic users, these Indonesian were-tigers are said to use their shapeshifting abilities to wreak vengeance on those who have wronged them. Other than that, they usually only feed on livestock, and are do not tend to the hostile to humans. They will only recognize their friends and family if called by their name. Hari-Onago - Lurking on Japanese street corners, these nocturnal creatures resemble beautiful young women with vicious barbs at the ends of their prehensile strands of hair. They smile at passing single men, and if the smile is returned then they will use their hair to tear the victim to shreds. Extremely fast runners can escape the creatures, seeing as they disappear instantly upon sunrise. Harmachis - Taking on the form of a sphinx-like creature, this Ancient Egyptian deity is thought to be an aspect of Horus, and to represent the dawn and the rising of the Sun, as well as being capable of bestowing supernatural wisdom on human devotees. According to a legend, a future pharaoh of Egypt happened upon the god while it slept, and was given a prophetic vision of his rule that would come to fruition as long as he made a temple of the deity. This temple became the Sphinx of Giza. Harpocrates - Sometimes referred to as a deity or a fallen angel, this grotesque being was once thought to have been a manifestation of the Egyptian god Horus, though has now evolved into the pagan god of silence and secrets. This is thought to have come about from a misunderstanding of the hieroglyphic representing the being's original role as a childlike version of Horus. Harpy - These winged humanoids are demons that are thought to have been created by a Greek deity in ancient times, and will snatch food and riches from people that stray into their modern day territory. They have also been known to carry off people who have wronged them, and to produce foul dung that can contaminate food to an inedible extent. Hashihime - Literally burning with envy, these insanely jealous Japanese spirits live underneath long bridges, and are believed to have been originally born from a scorned ex-spouse who prayed to ancient deities to make her into a demon of vengeance. If anyone speaks negatively of the bridges under which they live, or compliments another bridge whilst near them, they will be attacked by the creatures with extreme misfortune and bad luck. However, if they worship both the being and the bridge Hashmal - Burning with holy fire, these terrific angels usually appear as humanoids in amber armor surrounded by a ball of flashing flames and lightning, and are mentioned in Jewish literature. Their name signifies the static electricity effect of rubbing an amber stone with cloth, and the term 'electricity' was later coined from the Hebrew translation of the name of these angels. Hatif - Skilled poets and storytellers, these invisible djinn are mentioned in Middle Eastern Arabic writings, and are said to usually appear in order to give humans directions or warnings of events in the future. This is usually depicted in classic stories of the region as the creatures appearing and delivering their wisdom in the form of intricate poetic verse. Hatman - Creating extreme fear and panic responses in the humans in their vicinity, these terrifying entities are thought to be demonic in origin, and are often associated with the shadow people. They are well known for speaking in cryptic messages and persuading their prey to commit suicide. There is some speculation that they may be related to the Men in Black. Hatonn - Usually assuming the form of a large grey alien, this strange deity has been contacted by a small group of cultists or followers in the modern day, and it seems to believe that it is tasked with allowing Earth to make contact with alien races. It is capable of possessing willing human hosts, and is recognised as the commander of a large alien satellite that orbits the Earth. Hatuibwari - These rare and bizarre dragons are found in Melanesian, and resemble winged serpents with four eyes and human faces. In the local religion, they are referred to as the male version of Mother Nature, and it is assumed that this myth came from their ability to manipulate plant life around them. They will show this supernatural power when they are threatened by potential aggressors. Hauflin - Thought to have inspired J.R.R Tolkien's view of the hobbits, these small and nimble humanoids are to be found in the forests and mountains of lowland Scotland. They are usually simple and primitive in their lifestyles, hunting and farming for food and supplies, though are known to defend their homes courageously if the need arises. Haunebu - Towards the end of World War II, a small splinter group of Nazi scientists and commanders set up a base in Antarctica in which they crafted these infamous flying vehicles. They are capable of moving at incredible speeds and easily destroying other aircraft, due to the usage of technology stolen from a crashed grey spacecraft. Havhest - Usually described as having the bodies of fish the heads of grotesque horses, these bizarre Scandinavian creatures are believed to be relatives of the hippocampus, but are far more predatory and deadly than their cousins. They have wide mouths filled with multiple rows of fanged teeth, and are capable of producing bursts of flame from their jaws. This has led some researchers to suggests a relation with dragons. Hav-Musuvs - Mentioned in the Paiute traditions of North America, especially in tales told around the Mojave Desert or Death Valley, these mountain-dwelling ultraterrestrials are said to have originally sailed across vast oceans to trade with the Native Americans, but to have started using silent canoe-like UFOs once the climate changed. The aliens mostly hide away from humanity, but are not afraid to use tube-like weapons to cause electrocution or death if their territory is encroached on. Hayyoth - Taking on innumerable different forms, these Heavenly monsters are known to have commonly appeared in the visions of Judaeo-Christian prophets in close association with ophanim or cherubim. Jewish views dictate that they are a specific type of angels closely associated with fire, and tasked to hold up the throne of God. However, in Christianity their appearance is interpreted as being more metaphorical rather than physical. Headless Cat - Usually either completely black or white, these mid-sized beasts are capable of moving at extreme speeds, and are known from the urban legends and folklore of some North American regions. They are often seen in correlation with encounters with shadow people, and seem to play havoc with electrical devices in their vicinity, causing lights to flicker. It is speculated that they are used as some kind of reconnaissance or hunting party by shadow people. Hecatoncheires - Presiding over storms and hurricanes, these many-headed giants are spoken of in the mythology of ancient Greek and Roman societies, and are said to have played a key part in the war against the Titans by throwing mountains at the evil deities. Despite this, they are too savage to be permanently used as warriors, and are now used as guards to the gates of Tartarus by the Greek pantheon. Heiðrún - Truly unique ancient Norse ungulates, these goat-like beasts are said to graze from the trees and foliage that grow inside Valhalla, and to then produce highly sought-after mead from their udders in place of milk. It is unknown how they do this, though it is speculated that the trees from which they feed are somehow related to the legendary Yggdrasil, and are fermented to make alcohol in the process of digestion. Heikegani - Found mostly in the waters of Japan and Asia, these crabs have powerful front limbs that can be used to wound prey in a samurai-sword like motion. They feature in mythology because of the patterns on their backs that resemble a human face. Hekret - Representing evil or unnatural power in Egyptian mythology, these demonic serpents serve as minions of Apep, and are responsible for consuming the flesh and drinking the blood of the unfortunate souls who end up in the Underworld. According to the ancient Text of Unas, there is a ritual that can banish all demons and evil creatures from the Earth, and these foul serpents are among them. As mentioned in this same text, religious figures can be affected negatively if they look at them. Helhest - Formed from the spirit of the horse that was originally buried in every graveyard before human corpses were permitted to be interred, these phantom beasts will patrol church grounds and cemeteries on three legs. It is said that anyone who sees them will grow sick and eventually die of a mysterious illness. There are tales of the creatures breathing fire and appearing demonic in nature, though these are yet to be investigated. Heliodromos - Resembling hybrids of griffins and vultures bathed in brilliant flames, these fiery hybrids were believed to be couriers of the Sun in ancient European mythology. The Greek cult of Mithra worshipped these creatures, and they were often depicted in murals as humanoids holding flaming torches, possibly hinting at a shapeshifting ability. Hellcat - Often equated with hellhounds and black dogs, these demonic predators usually resemble enormous black panthers or pumas, and are considered to be the guardians of treasure and riches in Irish folklore. They are sometimes known to have the ability to speak and to be capable of shapeshifting to gain enormous stature or vaguely dragon-like features. Ancient legends speak of battles between these ferocious monsters and powerful warriors, which often ended with the deaths of both parties. Hellequin - First attested to in the French folklore of the 11th century, these demonic beings were described as resembling monstrous harlequins, and chasing the souls of the damned across Earth. They are said to wander coastline areas at night, and attack those who view themselves as 'holy men'. Due to their less common status in today's world, they have become often used stock characters in French plays. Hellhound - Demonic creatures, these beasts are often used by crossroads demons to hunt down those who have made deals with them and owe them their souls. They are incredibly tenacious, and will stop at nothing to hunt down the prey that they have been set upon. They have glowing red eyes, and can become invisible as well as breathing fire. Hell-Kite - Mentioned in the English writings of William Shakespeare, these savage birds resemble eagles or their namesake kites, and are found in the skies above the fiery pits of Hell. They are equivalent to airborne hellhounds, and hunt down the souls of those that have previously made deals with demons. Hellmouth - Very commonly depicted in the Anglo-Saxon art of Medieval Europe, this vast entity appears upon the deaths of those who have been wicked or evil in life, and will engulf them in their enormous jaws and send their souls straight to the fires of Hell. It has often been compared to the Leviathan or Fenrir, and is sometimes seen to literally contain Satan in its flaming maw in classic artwork. It is not known if it is just a disembodied face, or if it has a body in an unknown dimension. Hellspawn - Enormously physically strong, these monstrous demons are usually formed from human souls too broken to be transmuted into anything conscious. They are dumb and brutish creatures, though are capable of teleportation as well as producing intense heat and flames. Some individuals of the species have large wings, though this is rare. The mythology in which they were mentioned is currently unknown, though they are thought to have been first mentioned in modern fantasy literature. Hem - Usually likened to swans or crocodiles, these enormous aquatic animals are mentioned in the mythology of Turkey and South Asia. They are generally very poorly described in scholarly works, and as a result little is known about their appearance or lifestyle. Some argue that they are closely related to the hemaraj, though this seems unlikely. Hemaraj - Virtually unknown by modern researchers, these agile dragons appear as reptilian hybrids of crocodiles and lions, and are sometimes said to have small vestigial wings. They are usually found around temples and areas of religious worship in Thailand and South Asia, and are thought to act as guards for these holy places. Hemikynes - Virtually identical to the cynocephali, but thought to belong to a less well-known subspecies, these vicious humanoids are first mentioned in the journals of ancient Greek explorers such as Hesiod. They are found in the coastal regions of European countries such as Bulgaria, and make loud noises similar to the barking of dogs or howling of wolves. Heraclid - Representing the numerous descendants of the legendary demigod known as Heracles, these incredibly strong people are known to have often been appointed royal statuses in ancient Greek times. One story in particular tells the story of a city under siege from an army of these beings, which was ultimately only stopped by the timely intervention of an oracle. In modern day, heraclids are famous for their peak-human DNA, and are thus often sought after as organ donors. Hercinia Bird - This glowing animal is found in Germany, and is thought to fly at night to light the way for other animals. The feathers of this creature are highly prized on the black market. Herensuge - Armed with seven savage heads, these rare Basque dragons are associated with the demon lord known as Sugaar, and are known to demand human women as sacrifices from local villages. Although they are mentioned sparingly in the original mythology from the area, a later Christian story tells of a knight attempting to rescue a damsel from the clutches of one of these creatures, and nearly failing if not for the intervention of an angel, which decapitates the serpent. Herne the Hunter - After being gored to death by a stag, this ancient English hunter made a deal with a demon whilst on his deathbed, and was able to become immortal on the condition that he always wore stag's antlers. He is now accompanied by packs of phantom dogs and horses, and is responsible for making trees wither and cow's milk turn bloody. His first mentions were in the 1597 works of William Shakespeare. Herren-Surge - Capable of flying through the air without use of visible wings, these seven-headed serpentine Basque dragons usually live underground, but are known to sometimes emerge to feed on unattended herds of sheep. They have intoxicating breath which can lure prey animals towards them, and are said to self-combust every seven years before being reborn. Anyone who sees one of the demonic monsters and lives will be plagued with bad luck until the serpent next regenerates itself. Heyókȟa - Thought to be associated with the thunder elementals known as Wakíŋyaŋ in the mythology of the Lakota tribe of North American natives, these clown-like people act in the exact opposite to those around them, using extreme behaviour to both satirise and mirror the behaviour of a society, and are considered the only ones who are allowed to violate certain tabboos. They also act as emotional healers, using stories of shameful events to stop others letting their fears go unquestioned. Hezrou - Bearing superficial resemblances to enormous humanoid toads, these demonic monstrosities are feral and animalistic, and are entirely motivated by an endless search for food, using their wide jaws to produce a crushing force. Their bodies constantly secrete a stinking fluid which evaporates into a cloud of noxious vapour upon contact with air, choking anyone who stands near to them. Mariliths are sometimes known to be demoted to Hezrou as punishment for breaking demonic laws. Hibagon - Lurking around the Hiroshima area of Japan, these monstrous hairy humanoids are sometimes thought to be survivors of the nuclear disaster that have mutated into a hideous form. They stand roughly 5ft tall, and are covered thick layers of dark brown hair with white highlights around their hands and feet. Sightings of the beasts have been being reported since the early 1970s, though the creatures have already become engrained into the local folklore. Hıbılık - Also known as 'Gıbılık', these demonic manifestations of the sleep paralysis phenomenon are known from the Ottoman folklore of Turkey, and are thought to be closely related to incubi and succubi. They appear as bedraggled and lonely-seeming women or men, and will sit down on the chests of their victims with the intention of strangling them to death. However, if the victims manage to grab their enchanted fur hats known as 'börk' they will survive and be rewarded excessive riches. Hibla-Bashi - Mentioned in the folklore of Iraq and the Middle East, these demonic vampires resemble satyrs or fauns, and are found in mountainous areas where they are known to lure travelers from their paths before draining their blood. Some researchers have suggested that they may be related to the nephilim, which were said to be cursed with eternal hunger and thirst without the ability to consume anything Hide - Seen by a diver in 1953 Australia, this amorphous blob is able to detect movements in the water around it, and then paralyze prey that it touches using a potent venom. It is brown in color, and moves by pulsating, and physically absorbs prey, up to the size of a large shark. Hide-Behind - This nocturnal relative of nightjars is featured heavily in North American lumberjack folklore, renowned for its ability to move silently through its forest territory. They use their long claws to grip on to tree branches, and can outrun a human at full sprint. They will drag prey back to their nest, where they are never seen again, though they also seem to have an aversion to alcohol. Hiderigami - This bizarre Japanese beast has one eye, one leg and one arm, and is thought to be related to the psoglav because of its hairy, canine appearance. It seems to possess far more powerful magical abilities than its evolutionary cousin, though, because it is able to incite droughts in its general vicinity. If directly threatened, it can instantly remove all of the water in the bodies of potential aggressors. Hieracosphinx - Found mostly in Egypt and Africa, these creatures are thought to be related to griffins, but are much more intelligent. They enjoy riddles, though are less aggressive towards humans, and prefer to hunt deer and other animals. Hiisi - Dwelling in mountains and thick forests across Finland, these monstrous humanoids are thought to either be demons or faeries, and are known to make loud noises to frighten passing humans as well as sometimes stealing valuable resources. Some of them are small, resembling goblins, whereas some grow to the sizes of classic giants. As representations of untamed nature, they cannot step inside areas cultivated and tended to by humans. Hikigaeru - Dwelling in palaces beneath deep lakes and rivers across Japan, these shapeshifting vampires resemble enormous toads or frogs in their true forms, but usually take on the appearance of seductive human females. They are extremely poisonous, and will eventually drain their victims of blood once they have gained their trust. Hili - Dripping toxic liquids from their bodies as they fly, these terrifying undead birds are mentioned in the mythology of isolated African communities. If a single drop of the fluid lands on a person, they will become virulently ill, and only the strongest magic can cure the sickness and prevent it from spreading throughout a community. When the sick person dies, the bird will usually return to the site to scavenge the rotting remains. Hınkır Munkur - Most closely resembling large humanoids or ogres with smaller versions of themselves growing from a sack in their chests, these Turkish aberrations are feared as bogeymen by local children. They will hunt down unwary travelers before either strangling or drowning them and eating their corpses. However, they are terrified of urination and will vanish immediately if threatened in this way. Hinn - Preferring to take on the forms of powerful wolves or lions, these Middle-Eastern shapeshifters are thought to be related to djinn, and can often be found among the ranks of the aforementioned beings. They are intelligent and deceitful, despite resembling beasts, and are known to have fought with Iblis during a war against the Judaeo-Christian God. Hinnagami - Molded from clay made out of graveyard dirt, these frightening constructs are mentioned in Japanese folklore, in which they are said to grant wishes and bring extreme wealth and fortune to their creators. They will obsessively ask for more wishes to grant and tasks to perform, being extremely possessive of their owners. The spirits will still cling to their creators even after their deaths, when they have been known to travel to Hell and haunt them for eternity. Hinqumemen - Despite appearing as regular lakes devoid of life, these Native American creatures are really monstrous elementals that have liquid bodies, and will follow all those who drink from them. They will hunt down these victims and eventually drown them in order to drag their bodies back into the lakes. Some of these lakes have consumed so many people that their water turns red with blood. Hinzelmann - Usually appearing as childlike dwarfish figures dressed in red velvet, these German relatives of brownies are mostly ambivalent, and will provide good luck and perform household tasks if appeased, but will be malicious if they are mistreated. They dwell in castles, and will openly jest with and amuse the denizens of these buildings, sometimes leaving sweets and confectionary in the shoes of local children during the lead-up to Christmas. Hippalektryon - Covered in golden yellow feathers, these Greek creatures resemble hybrids of horses and roosters, and are thought to have originally come from the Middle East or Asia. They were commonly depicted on vases or shields, and their comical appearance was supposed to drive away demons or evil spirits. Some have suggested that they are related to Pterippus or Hippogriffs, but ancient Greek texts also posit a similarity to giant vultures or griffins. Hippocervus - Uncommon Greek hybrid beasts, these creatures resemble amalgamations of horse and stag features, and are sometimes said to represent indecision and poor choices. This is considered to be due to their scattered and unintelligent behavior, which is often compared to that of timid people who throw themselves into uncertain situations and later regret it. They are thought to be closely related to the Tragelaphos, and it is unknown if they are the products of breeding horses and deer. Hippogriff - First mentioned in 16th century literature, these rare hybrid creatures are closely related to both griffins and pterripus. They are proud and dangerous, and will kill humans if they view them as a threat, despite mostly eating small birds and insects. There are rumors that they are born from the unison of a griffin and a mare, though these have been proven to be untrue. Hippoturtleox - Descended from a lineage of prehistoric cows that evolved to become aquatic, these turtle-like creatures are found in lakes and rivers in Tibet and Asia. The first individual of the species was captured in 1972, but was hardly studied before Chinese soldiers brutally killed and ate it, eliminating the possibility of any remains. These creatures have evolved wide bodies and ribcages to aid in flotation, and feed on plants in their watery dwellings. Hirguan - Attempting to hunt and kill local deities, these demonic hellhounds are found in the Canary Islands, and prefer to remain invisible during their savage chases. When they do become visible, however, they resemble enormous dogs with woolly hair and large, glowing eyes. They have sometimes been known to move around on two legs, therefore resembling terrifying werewolves or dogmen. Hırtık - Turkish relatives of satyrs, these murderous shapeshifters are found near the Euphrates River in Asia, and are said to resemble hairy humanoids with the legs of nondescript animals and backwards-facing feet. They will assume the forms of any humans that they encounter, and will then go and talk to the loved ones of said humans in order to convince them to follow them into the forest where they will be drowned in rivers. If fire is placed near to a disguised Hırtık, their fur will burn. Hitotsume Kozō - One eyed creatures, these tricksters are roughly the size of a human child, and are found around Japan and Asia. They appear suddenly on dark streets, and will record the morality of those that they see. This will then be used to decide the fortune of that person for the next year. Hittite Griffin - Described in the culture of the Middle East, these humanoid creatures have the heads and wings of large birds such as hawks, and the feet and bodies of humans. They are sometimes referred to as demons, though this is unknown to be correct, because the creatures have not been seen for many years now. Hobgoblin - These ugly little faeries will live in households, where they will steal from and play pranks on the occupants, which are often blamed on children and adolescents in the area. They are often seen making clothes from stolen garments and objects, and hiding in various nooks and crannies all around the house, where they build bird-like nests. However, they can be effectively domesticated using offerings of cream and cereal. Hobyah - Extremely vicious variants of goblins that are found in the forests of Scotland, these creatures are known for their cannibalistic and infanticide tendencies. Their numbers and distribution are limited, thankfully, though it is thought that a group of them followed settlers to North America. Luckily, this population was all but wiped out when their weakness to large dogs was discovered. Hocereu Wahira - Closely related to Acheri and other North American disease spirits, these strange elementals are known from the cultures of the Cree and Algonquin people. They can travel extremely quickly through isolated villages, spreading a virulent and lethal pestilence through the air that they breathe. Very little else is known about them, because they seem to be extremely rare nowadays. Hodag - First encountered in the North American state of Wisconsin in 1893, these bizarre creatures were described as having the heads of frogs, elephantine tusks and long tails with spikes running down them. A group of men was assembled to hunt down the first individual, and they ultimately found it and killed it using dynamite after a fierce battle. Strangely, the remaining hodags only feed on white bulldogs, and they are significantly rarer nowadays due to the scarcity of these animals. Hodag - Small but territorial, these ceratopsian dinosaurs are found in the wilderness of Wisconsin, and will attack those that intrude on its habitat and gore them to death using their horns. They behave akin to pigs or boars, and will happily eat anything and everything that they are presented with, even human corpses. Hödekin - Always wearing felt hats that obscure their faces, these German faeries are related to brownies, and guard households viciously, sometimes even shapeshifting into monstrous forms to frighten away intruders. They are usually compliant and happy to serve the human residents of their habitats, and are known to keep watch overnight and warn people of problems and toils in the future. When they are angered, they will rapidly become murderous and excessively violent, and must be exorcised. Hofafa - Sometimes confused with demons or fallen angels due to their appearance, these rare djinn have large wings and can fly gracefully, and are sometimes regarded as air elementals. Little is known about them, though they are usually found in the Middle East and are sometimes said to be able to give the gift of flight to humans that strike deals with them, though this is usually at a steep price. Hogboon - Closely related to trolls, these humanoid monsters live in caves and moors across Britain and Ireland, and are said to help humans with tool-work and farming if offered gifts of ale and milk in return. However, they have been known to become hostile and menacing if their underground homes are disturbed or they feel that their help is being underappreciated or abused. Hograven - Winged ungulates, these creatures were spoken of in medieval bestiaries, and were to be found in dense forests and mountains in Europe. They are rare nowadays, though otherwise unexplainable hoof prints imply they still exist. Hokhoku - Sometimes referred to as the 'Cannibal of the North', this massive bird is mentioned in North American mythology, and is depicted in tribal dances in which a priest dresses as one of the enormous creatures. The monsters are greatly feared, because they are known to swoop down on human victims and break their bones before devouring their brains. Holadeira - Resembling regular dolphins with spiky ridges on their backs instead of the usual dorsal fins, these strange dolphins are found in the Amazon River of South America. A famous photograph of one of the entities was taken in the 1990s, but has not been studied sufficiently since. It has been suggested that they are related to encantados. Holawaka - Originally beautiful angels sent by an African deity to tell the local population that they would be immortal and could simply slip off their skins to regain youth, these avian beings are said to have become distracted before delivering this message. Instead, they told the message to a snake in exchange for a piece of its recently-dead prey, and thus the deity cursed the local humans with disease and pestilence instead. Hollinwell Virus - Manifesting for the first and last time on the 13th July 1980 in Nottinghamshire, England as the Forest League of Juvenile Jazz Bands were marching towards the county show that would eventually give its name to the phantom pathogen, this bizarre phenomenon resulted in dizziness, vomiting and fainting among the youth band. 259 people eventually had to be taken to nearby hospitals, including adults and babies, and several horses were also taken ill. Mass hysteria seems unlikely. Hom Mooar - Luring unwary travelers into the Faery Realm through their beautiful music that they produce using enchanted fiddles, these tricky faeries are found among the hills of the Isle of Man. Their victims will instantly lose their sense of direction upon hearing their music, and wander aimlessly until they are teleported to the Faery Realm, from which few ever return. Hombre Caimán - Living in underground tunnels across South America, these reptilian creatures are sometimes said to have originated from a greedy man who was cursed by a witch. It is unknown if this is true, though it is known that they feed on the flesh of all those who wander into their dark domain, though prefer to eat human females. Despite this, there are stories that some of them have developed sentience, and are refusing to eat other sapient beings. Hombre Gato - Roaming Argentinean villages at night and preying on both humans and animals, these monstrous shapeshifters resemble enormous humanoid cats or panthers in their true forms. Recently, a spate of sightings caused mass hysteria to break out among rural communities, due to the disappearances and mutilation of livestock. Hombre Pez - Resembling humanoids covered in dark scales and striking red hair, these Spanish beings are thought to be the descendants of a young child who was lost at sea, and eventually transformed into an aquatic creature. He was returned to land for a brief period, but then vanished back into the ocean, presumably to produce the numerous beings of the same species that we see today. Some have suggested that many of the sightings may simply be of humans with natural genetic deformities. Home Dels Nassos - Found in Catalonia and Spain, this bizarre entity begins his lifecycle resembling a grotesque caricature of a humanoid with 365 noses, and is said to lose one each day of the year until December 31st when he only has one left in the place that a regular human would. Apparently he can only be observed on the last day of the year, and so children are often told to go out and see if they can see him, as a form of fun game for them to play with the harmless entity. Homo Gardarensis - Close in appearance and heritage to Neanderthal humans, these Greenlandic trolls were first discovered around a long abandoned Norse village. They are sometimes mistaken for humans with acromegaly, but are closer to prehistoric humans in reality. Homo Marinho - Found in the choppy oceans around South America, these dangerous merfolk use their humanoid appearance and culture to lure humans towards their beach settlements. However, they will strangle and eat any people that they capture using this cruel strategy. Homo Nocturnus - Stalking the darkness across Southeast Asia, these odd primates resemble juvenile orangutans with large eyes and less hair, and are rarely seen by modern explorers. They were first studied and classified in 1735, and were erroneously identified as a previously-unknown species of humans. Homo Troglodytes - Found in jungle and cave areas in warm countries, these strange hairy humanoids are thought to be related to long-extinct forms of prehistoric humans. They were first officially discovered in 1658 after a description was published by a naturalist explorer. The creatures live in large groups and are often observed wearing primitive clothing. Homunculus - These disgusting, awful hybrid creatures are born when human blood or sperm is injected into the egg of a chicken or another animal, and will then take on intelligent (though aggressive) life of their own. They must be kept in incubators for a long period of time, and should be fed with horse manure, and will be covered in a sludge that has a similar texture and smell to the white of a rotting egg. Hone Onna - Despite being undead in nature and horrifically skeletal in their true forms, these Japanese ghosts retain a strong sense of romantic attachment and sexual desire fpr those they loved during life, and are capable of appearing just as they did when they were alive to all those who are not either unclouded by love or have strong religious faith. They rise from their graves at night and seek out those they loved, having sexual intercourse and draining their lovers over a period of time. Honey Island Monster - Behaving similarly to aquatic trolls, these strange primates have evolved to resemble hybrids of chimpanzees and alligators, and were first seen in North American bayous during the 1960s. They are covered in foul-smelling brown hair, and are amazingly physically strong. The four digits on their hands and toes are connected by thick webs of skin to enable swimming. Hongaek - Following and feeding upon humans who are naturally unlucky, these monsters resemble horrifying clouds of red mist that are capable of amplifying any preexisting misfortune or injury. They are spoken of in the lore of the Korean people, and are said to be repelled by mullet seed. Areas in which a large number of disasters or tragedies have occurred are likely to spawn one of these monsters. Honnari Hannya - Produced when a human female who was previously under the influence of the same curse that produces Chūnari Hannya and Kijo fully succumbs to her jealousy and envy, these terrifying Japanese demons are now no longer part human, and are instead serpentine monstrosities capable of using powerful magic and breathing fire. They have given into their jealousy to such a degree that there is now no way to calm their fury other than killing the once-human creature. Hook Horror - Large ambush predators resembling enormous bipedal birds with tough, beetle-like carapaces instead of feathers and enormous hooks instead of wings, these monstrous insects are thought to be more closely related to cockroaches than birds. They live in large groups among networks of subterranean tunnels, and sleep for roughly half of their lives. Despite if their beastly appearance, they are intelligent and have been known to learn human languages. Hookman - With reports dating from at least the 1950s, these wrathful ghosts are usually formed from the souls of those who were deeply adverse to sex and modern relationships in life, and are now doomed to take their anger out on the teens of today. They use bladed hooks as weapons, and are capable of becoming invisible, often attacking the parked cars of teenage couples in a 'lovers' lane' manner. Hopkinsville Goblin - These floating alien entities were seen in Kentucky in 1955 by a large number of witnesses, and reportedly attacked local farmhouses after emerging from a spaceship. They were described as having long ears, yellow eyes, clawed fingers and glowing bodies. Similar creatures have since been seen in several different locations all around the world, suggesting that this ultraterrestrial race has no intention of ceasing its visits. Horerczy - Often taking on the form of an unsuspecting human, these German demons are able to spit large quantities of butterfly-like entities that feed on human blood. Once the butterflies have fed, they will fly back into the disturbingly wide and toad-like mouth of the demon to nourish it. As with most other demons, these creatures can be prevented from attacking, and hurt, by use of holy water. Horned Human - A relict population of ancient hominids, these creatures exist in very small numbers in cave systems in Pennsylvania, where they use primitive weapons such as bows and arrows to bring down prey such as deer. They are rarely seen by modern humans, and so stir up a panic when they are, due to their resemblance to demons. Hornhead - Sporting two large horns on their heads and a saw-like ridge running down their backs, these curious aquatic mammals spout water in a similar manner to whales and dolphins. They are found mostly in the Northern Atlantic Ocean, and have been seen to move in pods with several young individuals. Their whiskered bodies can sometimes be mistakenly labeled as being scaly. Horpí - Giant Catalan serpents with green pearls embedded in their heads, these Spanish reptiles are non-venomous despite their resemblance to deadly vipers, and the gem atop their heads is said to grant immunity to poison if it is held in the mouth of a human. Strangely, they despise the sound of flutes so much that they will instantly become paralysed if exposed to the sound of the musical instrument, allowing crafty adventurers to pluck the jewels from their heads. Horsemen of the Apocalypse - Four legendary entities that were mentioned in the Bible, these beings represent different aspects that may herald the end of human history. They each have incredible power over their elements, which are war, famine, pestilence and death. The Horseman of Death is sometimes thought to be synonymous with the Grim Reaper. Horsham Pygmy - 18 inches in height, these small hairy beings are thought to be relatives of other furry dwarves all across the world. Their faces are free of hair and have a leathery texture, and their noses are hooked. They have proportionately long arms, and seem to use these to pick blackberries from the bushes and undergrowth. Hōsōgami - Spreading fatal diseases such as smallpox among human populations, these ancient Japanese demons are thought to infect people with their deadly plagues as vengeance for some past mistreatment. They are afraid of dogs and the color red, and people who fear they are at risk of disease would have worn red clothing. Families wishing to recover from an infection would imprison these demons in small shrines, both to honor and appease them and to prevent them from infecting more people. Hot Hant - Found in the Lower Mississippi Valley and Southern Alabama areas of North America, these frightening spirits are distinguished from other ghosts by the temperature increase they trigger in the surrounding area, allegedly due to the flames of the hellish realm from which they originally came. If a human walks through their vaporous form, then they will die instantly and become one of the ghosts themselves. They are mentioned in literature like 'To Kill A Mockingbird'. Hotheaded Ice Borer - These rodents are found in Antarctica, and have bony plates on their heads that are connected to numerous blood vessels, allowing them to become burning hot. They use this ability to hunt penguins, by melting the ice beneath them and feeding on them when they fall. Hound of Mons - Not only did the British troops have to deal with the onslaught of the German army during the World War One battle of Mons, they were also plagued by the rampage of a bizarre creature much like a hellhound, which is known to have hunted and mauled all those who strayed out into no-man's land for too long. It is said to have been the result of hideous experiments conducted by a German scientist, extracting the brain of a madman and placing it into the body of a wolfhound in an attempt to create a weapon to sway the Great War in Germany's favour. Hound of Tindalos - Barely canine in appearance, these ancient monsters originate from a slightly different reality to our own, as mentioned by HP Lovecraft, and need to consume the life energy of normal animals to stay alive. They do this by chasing their prey across time and space and then extracting their bodily fluids using a long proboscis-like organ. Houri - Described as having large dark eyes and pale skin, these seductive humanoids are described in the teachings of the Islamic religion, and are thought to be supernaturally beautiful djinn that exist in Heaven to repay good deeds carried out by believers on Earth by faithfully accompanying them and providing them with love and companionship. They are similar to nymphs, and some researchers have suggested that they are recreations of the spouses of the souls of those in Heaven. Houston Batman - Most famously encountered on June 18th of 1953 by a woman named Hilda Walker and a group of her neighbours, this bizarre winged ultraterrestrial was said to resemble a yellow-glowing humanoid clad in a tight-fitting black suit. It terrified the witnesses before vanishing into a yellow haze, promptly after which a large UFO took off overhead. The Mothman-like alien was seen once again in the 1990s, when it was described as a giant wearing a helmet. Hræsvelgr - Mentioned in ancient Norse traditions, these monstrous creatures are found in the northernmost sectors of Earth's atmosphere, and can cause mighty hurricanes and storms with their wing beats. Although they usually look like massive eagles, they are also said to be able to assume the forms of giant humanoids. Their name means 'corpse swallower' in Old Norse. Hrassvelg Monster - Extremely rare outside of European heraldic sources, these strange dragons have the bodies of lions, the heads of cobras, and mighty wings with which they can fly great distances. Uniquely, the creatures can spit venom that is highly flammable and corrosive as a defense mechanism. Hrimpursar - Composed entirely of ice and snow, these giant elementals are known from Norse mythology, and are thought to be the direct descendants of the ancient being known as Ymir. They exist in raucous tribal societies, and relish hunting and killing any creatures that are caught in their paths, as well as having been known to attack the Norse deities in the past. It is the brutal behavior of this species that results in the irrational fear of jötunns and other ice elementals. Hrökkáll - Covered in saw-toothed fins and sharp scales, these monstrous eels are thought to be the descendants of an undead monstrosity created by an ancient Icelandic necromancer. They haunt ponds and stagnant bodies of water, and lie in wait for human victims. These victims are sliced to pieces by their bladed fins, and poisoned by their acidic venom. Hrosshvalur - Surviving relatives of pliosaurs, these Icelandic creatures are often mistaken for demonic whales because of their enjoyment of sinking boats. They have white flesh with striking red manes and fins. Because of their destructive nature, and the fact that their appearance foretells bad weather, they are often used as familiars by dark magic users. Hsiao - Combining the features of a large ape and a bat or a bird, these creatures are found in the mountain forests of Asia. They have long and powerful arms, and are able to move quickly through the air as well as being strong on land. It is speculated that they may be either forest spirits, or possibly demonic in origin. Hsien - Although they do have bodies of their own, these nigh-immortal creatures can jump in and out of cadavers that they touch, though will still have a link to their original body. Due to this, these beings can be blackmailed by holding the original body hostage, as well as completely destroyed by being shot in the head whilst in a dead body. Hsi-Hsue-Kuei - Inhabiting the bodies of recently deceased individuals, these vampiric Chinese demons will take over the corpses of their hosts, erasing any trace of their past memories or personality, and simply using their new physical forms to seek out blood to drink. According to some modern sources, simply killing the body will not vanquish the demon, and they must instead be exorcised in order to prevent them from possessing further victims. They may be related to the Jiang-Shi. Hua Fish - Appearing as bizarre hybrids of snakes, fish and birds, these winged Chinese reptiles use their long tongues to consume small animals and insects. According to local folklore, the appearance of these fish presides the coming of a great pestilence or famine, and so the creatures are often killed or hunted down in order to prevent these disasters. Hua-Hu-Tiao - Although they resemble peaceful pachyderms, these Chinese monsters are actually vicious winged carnivores. There are historic myths about the beasts escaping from the captivity of a powerful ancient deity, and proceeding to consume as many humans as possible in a vicious feeding frenzy. These sorts of frenzies are rare today due to the seclusion of these monsters' populations, though are known to occasionally happen. Huallepen - Related to the bunyip, these aquatic bovine creatures are said to haunt lakes and rivers in Chile, and have legs that resemble those of seals and faces like cows. They emit terrible baying sounds at night, which can cause miscarriages and other pregnancy complications in women who hear them. The creatures themselves are virtually harmless on land, though take on a vicious and predatory disposition when submerged in water. Huáng Yao - Lurking in the undergrowth of Chinese forests, these powerful predatory mustelids resemble large weasels with yellowish or black bodies, and have feline heads and faces. They are known to be tenacious and carnivorous, and can hunt prey up to the size of a large deer. There have been no recorded attacks on humans. Huay Chivo - Half man and half goat, this creature was first mentioned in Mayan folklore, and seems to be unique to certain areas of South America. It is said in the mythology that it represents a witch or shaman who has themselves into a monster to prey on livestock. In modern times, speculation has arisen that the creature may be related to the chupacabra. Huayrapuca - Found in Ecuador and Colombia where it is considered to be a feminine deity representing the wind, this South American dragon-like being either appears as a winged reptile with a head at both ends of its body, a whirlwind of red material, or a beautiful woman with red dust in her hair. Although it is capable of doing both good and evil, it is said to bring droughts and kill livestock if it is annoyed, but this can be warded against by drawing crosses of ash and water above doorways. Huggin’ Molly - Featured in the urban legends and folklore of North America's Alabama, this unique ghost is said to inhabit the area of Abbeville, and to behave much like a boogeyman in that it will pursue children who disobey their parents or stay outside too late. It garners its name from its tactic of suddenly grabbing the delinquent children and screaming loudly in their ears, not intending to cause death but instead feeding on the shock and fear this generates. Huitzilopochtli - This powerful Central American deity represents war and human sacrifice in the beliefs of the Aztec culture. It is said by these people that they must make frequent sacrifices to the being in order to protect their society from 'eternal night' and negative fortune. According to the mythology, he also represents the Sun itself, and is the brother of Quetzalcoatl. Huldra - Seductive forest spirits, these Scandinavian nymphs are found in lakes and forests all across their territory, and will help local workers such as charcoal burners and miners. The term 'huldra' only applies to the females of the race, and the males are called 'huldrekall', and dwell underground. They are thought to originate from a curse that was placed on the family of a woman who refused to show her children to a local deity, and the deity decided that these children should be hidden Huma Bird - Representing unreachable greatness in Middle Eastern tradition, these incredibly beautiful birds spend most of their lives flying invisibly in the highest reaches of the sky, never landing on the ground. They are very similar to phoenixes, and are known to consume themselves in flame when they die to allow themselves to be quickly reborn. Their shadows foretell kingship for whoever they fall on, and any humans that capture and kill one of the birds will be cursed to die in 40 days. Humanzee - First created through the process of genetic engineering in the 1920s, these intelligent beings represent hybrids of human and chimpanzee DNA. They are immensely physically strong, and are easily controlled and ordered around by human commanders, and were thus used in the armies of Soviet Russia. The individual known as Oliver was originally referred to as a member of this species, though this has since been proven false. Humbaba - Monstrous creatures that were first mentioned in the Epic of Gilgamesh, and are said to guard forests all across the Middle East, these beasts resemble a lion with horns and snakes for tails. They are incredibly poisonous and deadly to humans, and can only be killed by decapitation. They seem to be some form of elemental, seeing as the flora and fauna of their forests depend on their survival. Hundun - Representing primordial chaos in Chinese religion, these monstrous spirits are said to resemble glowing dogs with coiling tails and four wings. They feed on feelings of peace and euphoria among humans, often being drawn to meditation, and take these senses away from their victims. Because of their demonic nature, they are known to be constant antagonists of various clans of angels. Hungry Grass - Usually not taking on an animal form, these strange plants are mentioned in Irish folklore, and are said to curse anyone who steps on them with eternal hunger that will eventually lead to cannibalism. They are thought to have originally been formed from grass that grew on the graves of fear gortas. Hunky Punk - Capable of camouflaging themselves as crude stone caricatures of human residents of the surrounding area, these impish creatures are found in and around medieval churches. They enjoy making harmless mischief, and lack the spitting ability of larger gargoyles. Despite their stunted wings, they are still sometimes seen to fly for short distances. Huntin - Depicted in the Xhosa mythology of South Africa, this nature elemental is sometimes said to be a deity, and dwells in certain silk-cotton trees in the coastal areas of the country, demanding to be worshipped and to be given sacrifices of fowls. Trees in which Huntin was said to dwell were surrounded by girdles of palm leaves, and they are forbidden to be felled on pain of death. All other silk-cotton trees are also protected by the entity, and sacrifices must be offered before felling. Hupia - Capable of shapeshifting into either the loved ones of their victims or large bat-like creatures, these faceless ghosts are the restless spirits of the deceased, according to Caribbean culture. They are usually nocturnal, and enjoy consuming guava fruits, which can be used as offerings to appease the duplicitous beings. Akin to bogeymen, they are known to target children who stay outside after dark. Huspalim - Found in Africa and Ethiopia, these curious rodents resemble large marmots with the faces of monkeys, and dappled red spotty hair all over their tough skin. Their meat is described as being tasty and nutritious, but their flesh is incredibly difficult to penetrate. It may be because of over-hunting that they are rarer today than they were in the past. Hverafugl - Closely related to penguins and other aquatic birds, these bizarre creatures are found in the boiling geysers and lava springs of Iceland. Their feathers are tightly compacted and their bodies have evolved into unique torpedo-like shapes. Very little research has been done on them because of their inhospitable habitat, and even the ancient local cultures still regard them as mysterious and intriguing. Hvidslangen - Enormous and monstrous white snakes, these Danish creatures are found in caves and alcoves across mountainous areas. They have the magical ability to attract massive hordes of serpents that crawl all over them and act as armor. It is said that it brings death and sorrow wherever it moves. Hwch Ddu Gwta - Hunting down those that stay behind too late at the Celtic festival of Samhain, these enormous demons resemble black pigs or sows without tails, and were originally mentioned in Welsh folklore. With the coming of Christianity, these beasts were associated with the Devil, and regarded as a form of punishment for those that took part in pagan festivals. Hyacinth - Appearing around beds of their namesake flowers, these ghostly nymphs are born from the soul of a beautiful young man who was the lover of both the Greek god Apollo and Zephyr. Zephyr eventually became jealous of Apollo and use a discus to strike and kill Hyacinth. Apollo begged Hades to not take Hyacinth's soul, and to instead make him into a species of flowers, dyed blue by Apollo's tears. Hyades - Either born from the unison of Atlas and one of the Oceanids or as the children of Hyas and Boeotia, these Ancient Greek nymphs are members of a small but distinct family, and are close relatives of the Pleiades and the Hesperides. They are closely associated with rain, seeing as their name literally translates to 'I fall as rain', and are known to permanently weep for the loss of their mother. Eventually they were transformed into a star system which now bears their name. Hyakume - Appearing as mounds of writhing flesh covered in bright yellow eyes, these Asian aberrations will protect ancient temples and historic ruins under the cover of night, using their many eyes to seek out potential thieves. If a human is in the area, one of the beasts' eyes will fly onto them and survey them, but will return to the monster when the human leaves the temple. They are not particularly violent creatures, and prefer to scare away humans instead of killing them. Hybrid Chupacabra - This is the name given to chupacabra reports that seem to not fit into the other categories, and often resemble hairless werebeasts in shape. The specimen in the photograph was discovered outside Mexico City recently, and had apparently died of natural causes. It is unknown what relation these beasts have to the more common chupacabras. Hydrarchos - Discovered in the Victorian era, a corpse of one of these monstrous sea serpents was found beached on the coastline of North America, and was displayed as a 'curiosity'. Living individuals of these 114 foot long sea monsters are incredibly rare, though there are rumors of small populations of these animals living in sea caves and deep underwater trenches. Judging by examination of the corpse's teeth, the creatures seem to be magically-influenced descendants of prehistoric whales. Hydrarchos - Found in the waters around Alabama and North America, these monstrous sea serpents have been known to reach lengths of up to 114ft when they reach adulthood. They have some degree of control over other sea serpents in their midst, and are thought by some to be related to the Biblical Leviathan. Hydrippus - Often confused with hippocamps because of their extremely similar appearance, these European creatures are mentioned in the traditions of the medieval era as the rulers of fish and aquatic life. They resemble large horses with the hindquarters of fish covered in golden scales, and it is said that all fish that disobey their commands are doomed to be caught by fishermen. Hydrus - Found in the muddy banks of the Nile river, these specially-adapted mustelids have long and serpentine bodies, which are capable of rolling up into tight balls. In this form, they allow themselves to be swallowed by dragons and crocodiles, and will then re-emerge in their stomach and tear them apart from the inside out. This gruesome manner of feeding has garnered them the title of 'enemy of reptiles'. Hylactor - Roaming the temperate forests of Greece and Europe, these predatory apes have adapted for a quadrupedal lifestyle, and have thus grown to resemble dogs. They are known as 'babblers' because of the shrill screeches and screams that they emit in order to communicate with each other. There are reports of these sounds taking on supersonic properties when exposed to magic. Hyldemoer - Guarding elderberry trees throughout England and Scandinavian countries, these shapeshifting witches are known to commonly take on the forms of large trees, and to inflict extreme bad luck on woodsmen that take berries or branches from their protected trees without asking the entities first. In their vicinity, elderberry trees cannot be hit by lightning or destroyed through any natural causes. They are sometimes held to have prophetic abilities, and this is attested to in folklore. Hypnalis - A magical species of the common asp, these dangerous Egyptian snakes have a slow-acting venom that will enable them to later kill their victims whilst they sleep. As a result, they are well-known for causing inexplicable deaths during sleep, sometimes attributed to nightmare demons. It is said that the Egyptian queen Cleopatra used one of these snakes to kill herself. Iara - Responsible for otherwise inexplicable disappearances in the Brazilian rainforest, these freshwater merfolk are capable of enthralling men using their hypnotic songs. These people will then serve the creature for the rest of their lives, and when they get old and die, the immortal being will just seek out replacements. Iblīs - Corrupting the minds and souls of any being around it, this terrifying creature is thought to be the equivalent of Lucifer in the Islamic faith, and is said to have been created by God out of pure flame. It is known to be the father of all djinn, and enjoys manipulating the minds of its creations into committing acts of bloodshed and sin. However, there are some stories of it seeking reconciliation with God. Ibong Adarna - Beautiful and colourful, these Filipino birds of paradise are well-known for their hypnotic songs and their ability to cure many illnesses using these magical tunes, and are said to nest in trees made from solid gold. However, they are not thought of as benevolent, because they use their singing ability to lull potential captors into a deep sleep, whereupon they petrify them using their faeces. Extreme pain can protect people from falling under the musical spell. Ican - Members of a truly bizarre lost civilization located in the forests and caves of Peru, these people seem to have lived in harmony with large populations of surviving dinosaurs, and to have developed flying vehicles independent of the outside world. They were first discovered by modern society in the 1960s, when engraved stones made by their culture were discovered in various mines and caves. Although they are much rarer today, it is believed that the civilization still exists, and is in h Ice Person - Despite the obvious lack of creativity employed in their name, these terrifying North American beings are thought to be either relatives of djinn or faeries. According to the creation myth as told by native peoples, they were originally all over the country before they were chased away by a deity. As could be expected due to their elemental nature, they can be hurt or killed by fire and heat. Icegedunk - Literally rolling around the icy tundra’s of Canada and Alaska, these bizarre pinnipeds resemble seals with tapering bodies and fleshy wheels in place of hind limbs, which they use to move at great speeds through the rocky landscape. Unlike other pinnipeds, they spend a minimal amount of time submerged in water. Very little is known about their diet or breeding habits, and natives to the area say that the remarkable creatures are nearly extinct nowadays. Icelandic Troll - Scary and deadly despite only being the size of a regular human, these nocturnal predators have a natural aversion to light and taste for the flesh of human children. They do not have tails unlike some of their counterparts, and live in large family groups in caves and mountains. Iceni - Incredibly strong and powerful warriors, this matriarchal society exists in small clusters in Britain. In official historical records, this tribe went extinct due to the Roman Empire, though in reality made a deal with a deity to enable them to survive and become inhumanly physically strong. Ichchadhari Nag - Once a normal king cobra survives for over a hundred years without biting anyone and thus preserving its venom, it will transform into one of these curious shapeshifting beings that are mentioned in Indian folklore. They have red gems on their foreheads that are formed from their venom, and it is this artifact that grants them their abilities. If the gem is stolen, the creature will hunt down and kill the person who took it. Ichijama - Capable of projecting a ghostly version of themselves to harm those that have wronged them, these Japanese magic users produce their spiritual doubles through a ritual involving a cursed doll. The spirit double will ask to be let in to the intended victim's house, and will give them a gift. Shortly after accepting the gift, the victim will become possessed and eventually die. Ichneumon - Similar to weasels or mongooses, these Egyptian mustelids are closely related to the hydrus and the leontophone. They are the natural enemies of dragons, which they attack by covering themselves in mud to be used as armor. When fighting these mighty reptiles, they will use their muddy coats to turn away any blows aimed at them, and then seek out an opportunity to target the dragon's throat. Ichthyocentaur - Related to merfolk, these primitive creatures were thought to be sea gods by the ancient Greeks. They have humanoid torsos and two legs with webbed feet emerging from their midsection, and a long fish tail. Although they were mostly mentioned in Greek folklore, there are some small populations of the creatures in the waters around Syria. Ichthyocentaur - These aquatic monkeys are found in the waters around Greece, and have evolved a long tail that has branched into a whale-like fluke. Because of the presence of two primitive back legs and a wide back, they are often misidentified as aquatic centaurs. Ichthyophagi - Found in the Persian Gulf and along the coasts of the Red Sea, these humanoids are known from the writings of Ancient Greek explorers, and are said to subsist entirely on fish, catching them at low tide and cooking them out in the sun, before making their flesh into bread or cakes after braying it in mortars and dehydrating it in sieves. They are extremely adept at swimming, and live in caves along the coastlines, only venturing inland to find drinking water. Idaemonon - Poking their long, bladed fingers out of the ground between six in the morning and six in the afternoon, these frightening Earth elementals will inflict a withering sickness on those that step on their fingers. They are known from the mythology of the Philippines, and are said to hide and steal human belongings during the rare occasions when they venture above ground. They are unique among their fellow Earth spirits, suggesting that they may have a different evolutionary history. Idsetti-Deha - Dwarfish Bolivian faeries known from the mythology of the Tacana people, these bizarre South American creatures resemble red-furred sloths which lack anuses, and are known to live in an underworld-like realm that they access through armadillo burrows. They feed on water droplets and the aromas released by nearby food, and are said to be incredibly repulsed by the act of defecation. Some stories featuring the creatures depict them as entertaining comedic heroes. Ieles - Resembling large, bipedal cats at first glance, these monstrous faeries are known from European folklore, and lurk at crossroads or fountains where they will attack and drain the blood of any humans they find. Although they are capable of causing all manner of sicknesses in humans, they have sometimes been known to fall in love with particular people. They have a fondness for music, and it seems that they may be predatory vampiric nymphs of some kind. Ielle - Usually appearing as strikingly beautiful faeries dancing in secluded forests or bathing in isolated ponds, these seductive Romanian ultraterrestrials have a hypnotic effect on men in their vicinity. They are incredibly powerful, burning the ground and scorching the foliage around them when they dance, and abducting all those that see them or attempt to copy their dances. If they are not appeased on specific days of the year, they can cause all those that hear their singing to become mute. Ifrit - First known from Islamic culture, these Djinn can use abilities such as shapeshifting, flying using wings, transforming other people into animals, and producing mighty bursts of fire from their bodies. They are often found in or around ruins and derelict buildings. Despite their terrifying power, they can be controlled by a human if they have a tattoo placed on their body by said human. Ifrita - Mentioned in Middle Eastern mythology, these Djinn are often conflated with Ifrits because of their similar sounding names, but are actually of a different species more akin to succubi. They usually resemble caricatures of human women with unfeasibly large breasts and buttocks, but are capable of assuming regular human form to blend in with society. Like succubi and lilitu, they are natural seductresses, but are not known to be associated with sleep paralysis. Igigi - Regarded as the lower class of deities in Middle Eastern Sumerian mythology, these possibly alien entities are said to have been forced to work for the Anunnaki, constructing vast waterways and performing agricultural labour in Paradise, eventually rebelling against their cruel masters and attacking Enlil, the chief deity of the Sumerian pantheon. Realising that the agricultural work was the cause of the disquiet, the Anunnaki created humanity to perform the jobs instead. Igosha - Usually appearing as nothing more than headless and legless humanoid torsos, these bizarre Slavic aberrations behave akin to brownies or other household spirits, and are thought to have originally been the ghosts of unbaptized children. They are fond of playing mostly harmless pranks, but these can be avoided by loudly acknowledging the presence of the beings and giving them offerings of bread and spoons. During the Winter months, they will demand hats and gloves, ironically. Iguanoid - Thought by some researchers to represent a subspecies of reptilian, these saurian aliens often wear long black hooded robes to hide their scaly features, and are known to be capable of mind-controlling their enemies. They do this through their impressive mastery of witchcraft and dark magic, which are traits that had previously not been observed in aliens. Ihmissusi - Transformed into monsters as a result of harmful pranks from forest faeries or spirits, these Finnish werewolves usually have bent spines and extremely long index fingers in their human forms. Their presence has sometimes been known to warp silver objects, but they can still be used to harm the monstrous shapeshifters. Ihuaivulu - Known from the South American folklore of Argentina and Chile, these enormous dragons have serpentine bodies covered in red scales, and seven heads that constantly spit fire. Because of their similar morphology, they are sometimes said to be related to hydras. They live in volcanoes and other areas of great heat or tectonic activity, and are known to fashion armour for themselves out of copper that melts in their extremely hot habitat. Ijiraat - Terrifying malevolent shapeshifters, these Inuit faeries are found in the caves and plains of Greenland, and have been known to assume the form of any animal in the area to get close to potential human victims. They can change every aspect of their appearance save for their glowing red eyes. After an encounter with one of these creatures, victims tend to quickly forget the details. Ijiraq - Described in the folklore of the Inuit people, these shapeshifters are found in caves and caverns, and are known to make children vanish without a trace. They are sometimes seen by their future victims as a flitting shadow in the corner of their eye, but are not able to be observed directly. There are stories that the children are able to escape if they manage to persuade the creature to let them go, though these are unconfirmed. Ikaki - Very little is known about these deadly spirits, other than they take on the forms of humanoid turtles and take a sickening pleasure in killing humans using what is sometiems described as a 'dance of death'. They are found in rivers across Nigeria and West Africa, and are thought to be related to kappas due to their similar appearances. Despite their powerful abilities, they are not physically strong and can be overpowered if ambushed. Ikal - Living in caves across Mexico and Central America, these bizarre alien hairy humanoids are covered in black fur and have faces that are often described as looking like those of old men. They traverse the skies using small spherical airships and devices resembling jetpacks that can be mounted on their shoulders. Like many other ultraterrestrials or faeries, they are highly temperamental and will abduct any humans that irk them, and are sometimes known to abduct and impregnate human women with hybrid children. Ikiryō - Sometimes simply called 'living ghosts', these strange beings are manifestations of a living person's soul that appear during times of either intense hatred, passion or simply unconsciousness. They have been known to appear to people directly before the deaths of their hosts, leading to loved ones witnessing these apparitions just before the person in question dies. Iktomi - A powerful trickster, this spider deity is known throughout all of the native North American tribes, where he is said to be able to produce potions to affect other gods. He is also said to produce web to control other people like puppets, and is prophesied to spread this web all over the globe in the near future. He is thought to be the patron god of new technology, and has developed a degree of control over computers and robotics in the modern day. Ikuchi - Colossal sea monsters, these beasts roam the coasts of Japan, and secrete toxic oil into the water that they pass through. Any boats that enter their paths will be enveloped by their serpentine bodies for days, and the sailors will have to bail the oil out of the ship to prevent themselves from sinking. Ikugan - Most closely resembling monstrous apes or gorillas with thick grey fur, these hairy humanoids live in the jungle tree canopies of the Philippines, and use their prehensile tails to snatch passersby. They are savage and carnivorous, and will devour the humans that they kidnap. Iku-Turso - Featuring both the characteristics of walruses and octopuses, these monstrous creatures lurk in the deep waters of the Finnish coasts. Although their large size is a valid threat, their most dangerous ability is to shoot projectiles that can cause deadly diseases in those that they hit. They are not often seen today, and have become nothing more than folklore in modern communities. Ikuutayuuq - Patrolling the coast of the Canadian Hudson Bay, these murderous ogres are known from Inuit folklore, and will hunt and kill any humans that encroach on their territory, holding their victims down on their backs and then drilling deep holes into their bodies using specialised claws. This torture can last an agonisingly long time before the victim dies, and then their bodies will be haphazardly covered in rocks. They are much rarer today, after having been hunted to near extinction by a local hero. Il-Belliegħa - Dwelling in Maltese wells and other deep sources of water, these undead creatures are said to drag passers-by down into their deep dwellings. Tales of these monsters are often used by parents to discourage children from looking down wells, and thus the beings have become confused with bogeymen in recent years. They are formed from the spirits of those who fall down wells and whose bodies are never found. Illes - Dwelling in networks of subterranean caverns and caves in Iceland and other Slavic countries, these nocturnal trolls are renowned for their shapeshifting abilities, which they use to assume the forms of seductive humans in order to lure mortals into their dens, whereupon they will devour them. In their true forms, they are described as hairy and dark-skinned, resembling other monstrous trolls. Unlike other members of their group, they are known to be intelligent and manipulative. Illuyanka - Found in the waters surrounding Turkey, these monstrous aquatic dragons resemble eels or sea serpents, and have the ability to control or create lightning and vicious storms in their vicinity. Despite their beastly appearance, they are actually intelligent creatures, and enjoy manipulating the lives of those who escape their attacks. They do this through creating human descendants, and controlling the minds of these people. Imaginary Friend - Although sometimes considered to be the same beings as Zână, these strange creatures are actually the ghosts of deceased children that use the company of other children to maintain joy and friendship after death. They have been shown on several occasions to have the ability to see into the immediate future, and have saved the lives of their companions or their families from sudden accidents. Imap Umassoursa - Large enough to often be mistaken for islands, these enormous sea monsters are mentioned in the Inuit folklore of Greenland are said to lie in wait just below the surface of the water, and rise up just as ships pass overhead. These destructive actions would lead to the ships being capsized and all the sailors on them being plunged into the water, where they promptly freeze to death. Imjärvi Humanoid - First witnessed in 1970 by a pair of terrified skiers in Finland, this diminutive alien resembles a humanoid dressed in a skin-tight green suit, with a pointed metallic helmet and a hooked nose. According to the witnesses, the creature carried a small black box from which tendrils of multi-coloured light emerged, and these had the ability to anaesthetise any limbs that they touched. One of the witnesses later had another encounter with a female ultraterrestrial. Imori - Born from the wrathful ghosts of slaughtered armies inhabiting colonies of geckos, these Japanese beings either appear as minuscule versions of their living selves, or humanoid lizards. Other reptiles congregate in large numbers around them, as if they were possessed, and the creatures themselves are armed with all manner of weaponry. They can be killed by providing the bodies of the slain soldiers with proper burials. Imp - Little demons, these creatures adore playing pranks on the people around them, and feeding off the dismay and frustration that this causes. They were first spoken of in Germanic lore, and were described to be the companions of some witches or other dark magic users. Impundulu - Powerful evil creatures, these monsters are spoken of in the folklore of South Africa and are said to be often summoned by dark magic users to do their bidding. They feed on the blood of their victims and are capable of summoning brutal thunder or lightning storms with their wings and claws. The flesh and fat of these creatures acts as an almost eternal fuel source if it is burnt. Imseti - Almost beautiful despite their mummified undead nature, these ancient Egyptian creatures are thought to have originally been descendants of the deity known as Horus. They are said to represent the liver in the mummification process, and to be responsible for reaping the souls of those who either die of a broken heart or an influx of emotion. Imy-Hemef - Roughly 50ft long, this enormous demonic serpent is recorded in Ancient Egyptian mythology as dwelling atop Mount Bakhau, which is considered to be one of the gargantuan mountains on which the heavens rest, and is heavily associated with the sunrise and the East. The serpent's name means 'dweller in flames' and the frontal part of its body is covered in flints and shining metal plates. During Ra's journey on the Sun Boat, the god uses magic words to put the flaming monster to sleep. Incubus - As the male form of the succubus demon, this shadowy figure will appear to female sleepers and force them into sexual intercourse. They are sometimes known to collect sperm obtained by succubi and use this to impregnate their victims with demon hybrids called cambions. Indigo Child - Although often believed to be nothing more than pseudoscience and fakery in mainstream science, these powerful beings represent another stage of human evolution that is highly sensitive to psychic or supernatural presences. They may display many of the symptoms associated with ADHD or autism, and are thus often misdiagnosed as having these conditions. There are stories of the beings communicating with the dead and their spirits. Indombe - Featured in a bizarre and incomprehensibly metaphorical story from the native people of the African Congo, this massive serpent has a segmented body made from copper plates, through which scorching flames run. According to the aforementioned myth, Indombe was outraged when a local hero attempted to enchant her, and so she attacked him and swallowed all those who lived in his village. Horrified, the hero killed and ate her, but she returned as ghost because her head was not eaten. Indra - Said to the King of Heaven in the Hindu faith, this mighty entity represents both protection and destruction, and is said to have fought armies of rakshasas in his youth. In way of weaponry, he uses a double-headed sceptre called Vajra. Indrid Cold - First encountered in 1966 by a single witness in North America, this terrifying entity is thought to be demonic, and is known to have some control over or affiliation with the men in black. It seems to have a fascination with learning more about and experimenting on the human race, and is capable of communicating with human victims through telepathy. Due to the location and timing of the first sighting, some have guessed that it may be related to mothman. Indrik - Having existed in Russia until recently, these creatures resemble the wooly rhinoceroses of ancient times. They were to be found on mountainous plains areas, though have since been hunted to extinction there. However, there is a small population in a reserve in China. Indus Worm - Giant worms that live in the muck and mud of South Asian rivers, these nocturnal creatures devour cattle and livestock using their mandibles overnight. The creatures are sometimes hunted using bait, and a flammable oil is extracted from their bodies after they are dried out. This oil is known to have been used in incendiary weapons such as grenades. Ine Weu - Mentioned in the Indonesian folklore of the Manggarai people in Western Flores, these demonic hairy humanoids are described as feminine creatures with enormous pendulous breasts, which they can somehow use to capture unwary victims. Unlike Ebu Gogo, they are roughly of human height, and have large legs and feet which enable them to take extremely long strides. They enjoy frightening people by appearing and disappearing rapidly, and are said to cause the eventual death of any witnesses. Inferno - Expressing their wrath and anger through manifesting roaring flames covering their bodies, these furious spirits are named after the Portuguese or Italian word for 'flame'. The fire that coats their ghostly forms can burn and damage the very souls of their victims, and leave a powerful curse on any objects that it scorches. There is speculation that they represent human souls that escape from Hell. Ingnerssuak - Regarded as the equivalents of either faeries or demons in the Inuit folklore of Canada and Greenland, these diminutive humanoids live in much the same conditions and societies as their local human counterparts, but are also supposed to dwell either underground, accessing these secret tunnels through invisible entrances in cliff-faces. Their species is divided up into two separate classes depending on their attitude towards humans, the benevolent Mersugkat and the monstrous Atdlit. Inifri Duir - Living inside massive, ancient oak trees and fiercely protecting the flora and fauna that share their woodland habitat, these British ogre-like faeries are usually neutral towards human contact, though will become wrathful if their trees are cut down or coppiced. If this happens, they will shapeshift into the forms of human traders and sell passersby poisonous fungus disguised as delicious cakes as revenge. Ink Monkey - Serving as a companion to Chinese scholars and writers, these small simian elementals are used to create and refill the ink in inkwells, as well as turning pages and fetching new brushes. They have soft black fur and red eyes, and usually sleep in the desks or cupboards of said scholars, drinking the ink when the scholar is finished writing. Inkanyamba - Akin to enormous sea serpents with horse-like heads, these monstrous South African beings dwell in the plunge pools of large waterfalls, and are most active during the Summer months. Local tribes believe that their activities, especially anger, produce powerful storms and monsoons. Some scientists have speculated that they may be large eels. Insectoid - Witnessed during the traumatic alien abduction experiences of many people all around the world, these beings are often seen accompanying Greys, Reptilians or other ultraterrestrials. They are tall and resemble enormous praying mantises, complete with bulging eyes and six limbs. Although they speak to each-other in a strange clicking language, they can use telepathy to communicate with other beings during the medical experiments that they perform. Intruder - Mentioned in an obscure urban legend of unknown source, these horrific bogeymen normally resemble large big cats with glowing green eyes, and are 7ft tall when sitting upright. They slip into empty houses at night and wait for their occupants to return home, before beginning their hunt and picking off the human victims one by one. It is difficult to know from where they come from, seeing as the main source for information is a researcher known as Neil Arnold. Intulo - Regarded as evil omens by Zulu natives because of an ominous creation myth in their culture, these blue-skinned reptilian humanoids stalk the grasslands and forests of Africa. It is said that when the creator god decided that humans shouldn't be immortal, he sent these creatures to bring the message. Not much is known about the animals themselves, though they are known to have a tribal society involving closely-knit clans. Intxixu - Considerably smaller and less impressive than other minotaur-like creatures, these dwarfish Basque human-betizu (a species of wild cow) hybrids make up for their diminutive size in intelligence, seeing as they are known to build megalithic structures in the Spanish Aiako Harria Mountain Range. Much like faeries, their reduced stature is also associated with increased magical abilities and a mischievous temperament, and they will only help humans on rare occasions. Inuarutligkat - Commonly mistaken for faeries or dwarves, these diminutive aliens are mentioned in the folklore of the Inuit people of Canada and Greenland, and are known to possess projectile weapons that can kill or paralyse their victims when aimed at them. Their appearance, as well as the technology that they use, is extremely similar to that of the Valensole Abductors witnessed in 1965. Like most other similar creatures, they are ultraterrestrial in origin. Inugami - Protective spirits, these beings are often created by magic users through use of particular spell that enables the spirit to latch onto the magician's family, and do their bidding. However, if the family has a petty grudge against someone else, the creatures have been known to act on it in a drastic way. This often includes possessing potential enemies and causing them sickness and bad luck. Inuit Dwarf - Resembling humans with small and stout bodies, these dwarfs are found in the icy plains and caves of Greenland and Canada. They are mostly hunter-gatherers, and have incredibly powerful magic abilities that they use to change the size or species of their catches, such as turning lemmings into bears. Inulpamahuida - Surreal insects, these South American relatives of the stick insect have been able to grow to a much larger size and now mimic whole logs instead of leaves or twigs. Because of this bizarre defense mechanism, they are feared as 'walking trees' by local cultures, and are part of the general paranoia that has accumulated surrounding the untamed jungle. Inupasugjuk - Wandering across the Arctic plains of Greenland and Canada, these colossal Inuit giants seem to find humans amusing, and have been known to pick up and carry human victims as playthings. The females are more often seen than the males, suggesting a matriarchal society. They have difficulty seeing objects that are not moving, and so humans that stand still are likely not to be noticed. Invidiak - Also simply known as shadow demons, these incorporeal menaces appear as clouds of darkness with enormous wings and claws, and are believed to be associated with the sin of envy due to having been originally formed from the tortured souls of those who were envious in life. They are normally weak to direct sunlight, but can resist this hinderance if they possess a human body. However, if these human hosts are struck with a beam of magical light the demon will be immediately expelled. Invisible Crowd - This phenomenon is thought to be psychic in origin, and manifests as the loud and enveloping sound of a chanting crowd around a victim. The victim will not experience any ill effects save for an overwhelming sense of fear. The voices will be singing in a language that sounds like Arabic, though it has not been studied enough to decifer what the phantoms are saying. Invunche - Notoriously difficult to kill, these Chilean creatures are created by dark warlocks by corrupting the bodies and minds of innocent children that they kidnap using evil magic. This process involves feeding them human flesh and breaking their bones, and will eventually result in a creature that will guard the warlock's lair. They cannot speak, and instead communicate in guttural and ugly sounds. Inyana - Gaining their magical powers from increased contact with ancestral spirits and ghosts, these African magic users act as diviners and soothsayers, capable of predicting the futures of those around them. They do this through the rhyming repetition of specific spells, taught to them by spiritual beings known as the itongo. Inzignanin - Found in the rivers and seas of certain North American areas, these aquatic humanoids are thought to be distantly related to ponaturi and merbeings, and are known for their short and inflexible tails. The beings live in small groups and bask on rocks. They feed on raw fish, and have become much rarer since the area's fish population depleted. Ipotane - Bizarre and threatening humanoid hybrids, these creatures are known from the folklore and mythology of the Grecian islands. They resemble humans with the legs and faces of horses, and are thought to represent an evolutionary missing link between centaurs and satyrs. There is some confusion about their name, because it means 'knight' in Greek, which suggests that the creatures may have once been more civilized than they are today. Iranian Toothed Bird - Found in caves and mountains across Iran, these chicken-sized creatures represent bizarre hybrids of mammalian and avian features. They have long, hairless snouts, feathery bodies and legs like those of small birds. Not very powerful hunters because of their small size, the animals mostly prey on mice and insects, which they catch by chasing. Iratxo - Usually benevolent, these goblin-like Basque faeries are known to help with farming tasks and jobs overnight if they are offered food as payment. However, they can cause poltergeist-like activity within households if they are not paid, as is the case with most working faeries. Iriz-Ima - Described as an elephant with the features of a crocodile, this monstrous reptile is found in the caves and rivers of Africa, and is often confused with other dinosaur-like entities in the same area. Not much is known about it except from its territorial and aggressive behaviour towards other large animals in its habitat. The males of the species have large tusks. Irkuiem - Proceeding with a bizarre hopping gait, due to their front legs being longer than their back legs, these strange Siberian creatures resemble white bears with large heads and slim bodies. They have been sometimes known to migrate to Alaska through ice floes, and the skin of one of them was obtained and studied by a scientist in 1987. The results were inconclusive. Irrinja - Using a special ointment and a wolf-skin belt to transform into monstrous predators, these Australian shapeshifters will wait for sandstorms, and then bury themselves in the sand. When the storm is over, the transformation will be complete and the hideous monsters will burrow their ways out of the sandbanks, before beginning a ferocious pursuit of nearby humans. Iruntarinia - Violent but constructive Australian Aboriginal spirits, these brutal beings are invoked in a traditional ceremony to turn a regular human into a magic-using medicine man. This ceremony involves the spirits pelting the victim with invisible projectiles until they are dead, and then they tear out the organs of the human and replace them with new, magical ones. After this, the human will be reborn with a small incision in their tongue, and must wait a year before practicing magic. Ishbi-Benob - Renowned for their incredible strength and ability to use enormous weapons, these strange beings are thought by some researchers to be descendants of nephilim and other giants. One member of this species is said to have wielded the sword that killed the biblical King David. Ishigaq - Extremely lightweight creatures, these faeries are found in cold areas of North America such as Alaska. They are known for hovering over snowdrifts and observing passers-by, leaving no prints as they move through the snow. It is thought that they have a subterranean society, similar to the sidhe of Britain. Ishim - Comprised of both fire and ice, these righteous angels are spoken of in the holy texts of the Jewish faith, and are said to be the angels most closely associated with the lives or mortals. Their main function is to provide the Judaeo-Christian God with worship and songs, which could be interpreted as some variety of sonic ability. Isiququmadevu - Bearded and bloated monstrosities known from the folklore of the African Zulu and Bantu nations, these hideous aberrations dwell in pools and rivers, and are said to have enormous mouths large enough to engulf entire armies. There is a local legend which details the story of the daughter of a king who decided to bathe in a river containing an Isiququmadevu, and was swallowed, leaving her mortified father to try and kill the beast. He was eventually successful after outwitting it. Iskoki - Capable of possessing willing and religiously-devoted hosts, these strange Djinn are found all across the world in territories such as Africa or the Middle East. They are known to be sometimes worshiped by human groups who offer them sacrifices and build temples in their honor. As with most Djinn, some of them are good but most of them are evil, and are said to cause disease. Ismenian Dragon - Descended from a monstrous Greek serpent that was slain as it guarded the sacred spring of Ares, these monsters resulted from Ares cursing those who killed the first individual, and transforming them into others of its kind. They resemble enormous cobras, and are capable of producing Spartoi if their teeth are sown into the ground. Isogashi - Constantly running from place to place as if trying to complete unending tasks, these busy Japanese spirits resemble blue skinned humanoids with long pink tongues in their true forms, but are usually known to possess human bodies. People possessed by these creatures will feel compulsions to constantly move around and run errands, and will be uncomfortable if forced to remain still. However, this is not an unpleasant feeling, and the victim will enjoy getting things done. Isonade - Lurking in the bays and seas of Japan, these mysterious sharks have bodies that are covered in metallic barbs and spikes, that they use to grapple onto prey. They are known to move through the water without disturbing it or making a single sound, and to silently their fins over the decks of boats. When they do this, fishermen are caught on the barbs and dragged into the depths. Ispolin - Often used to represent the pre-Christian settlers in local Bulgarian mythology, these monstrous giants are similar to the nephilim and are sometimes described as only having single eyes. They were supposedly the second generation of people created by God, after the failure of a dwarfish race. Their diets consist only of raw meat, and they are extremely hostile to humans, but will be killed instantly if they come into contact with blackberry plants. Issitoq - This wrathful Inuit deity punishes those who break local taboos, and acts as a surveillance officer for the more powerful Native American deities. Befittingly, he resembles a giant flying eye, and is often accompanied by other creatures that resemble smaller versions of himself. His targets will start to experience paranoia and panic attacks, and will then suddenly disappear, never to be seen again. Isti-Papa - This murderous beast is found in the Southeastern forests of North America, where it feeds on both animals and humans by crushing them with its great weight. The hide of the beast is impervious to weapons, and it often marks its territory by scraping bark off trees using its curved tusks. It - Despite sharing its name with a fictional coulrodaemon, this Scottish creature is described as being shapeless and malevolent. It is likely best described as a living mass of amorphous slime, and it is known to feed on livestock and slow moving larger creatures by absorbing them. It is feared as an evil spirit by locals. Italian Tomb Spider - Truly eldritch arachnids, these volant monstrosities resemble large spiders with bright white bodies and enormous wings comparable to those of bats, and are also sometimes said to have no less than twelve legs. As their name suggests, they dwell exclusively in underground ruins and catacombs, and are thought to be bad omens or even signs of the impending deaths of family members by miners and explorers who have the misfortune of encountering them. Itongo - Representing everything that ever was and everything that ever shall be, these immensely powerful African elementals are communicated with in small exchanges by highly-trained magic users. They exist inside the collective minds of African tribes, and thus know everything that the tribesmen do. Their abilities include creating matter and manifesting themselves as physical beings. Itse - Slightly different to the soul, these apparitions will appear to those around a particular person moments before or after their birth, and join with the person to give them their personality and sense of self. According to Finnish mythology, this entity can sometimes become separated from its host during a traumatic event, which results in depression or mental illness. Itsumade - Shrieking in a terrible voice that sounds akin to a suffering human, these Japanese ghosts are born from the tortured souls of those who starved to death, and fly around battlefields and other sites of great anguish. Their call roughly translates as 'how much longer', and is meant to ask for how long the suffering of the dead will go unnoticed. They resemble large birds with human skulls and the tails of snakes. Ittan-Momen - These malicious creatures are born when a long strip of cloth gains a life of its own through prolonged neglect. They can often be seen moving through the skies of Japan, and are malicious towards humans. They will wrap their victims up in their flat bodies, and smother or strangle them to death. Itzcuintlipotzotli - Well-known across Mexico in the 1700s, these rotund predators resemble small dogs with pronounced humps on their backs and stubby necks, as well as bulbous noses. They are much rarer today, and have not been officially recorded since 1843. There is speculation that they were not dogs at all, but rather large scavenging rodents. Ītzpāpālōtl - This demonic goddess is associated with the stars in the night sky in Aztec mythology, and is said to have wings that resemble those of a black butterfly or moth. She often helps women survive childbirth, though will devour humans indiscriminately during solar eclipses. She is known to be the ruler of the demons known as the Tzitzimitl. Ivanovo Incomprehensible - First witnessed by a group of Russian men celebrating New Year in 2004 after it alighted from a glowing orange spherical UFO, this bizarre alien humanoid is possibly the strangest ultraterrestrial ever recorded, and resembled a completely two-dimensional being with a long snout. It appeared to take some time to mock the panicked men before turning sideways and revealing its lack of a third dimension. One of the men was hit by a beam from the UFO and the being vanished. Ixtab - These faeries feed on the misery and despair that surrounds someone committing suicide, and were first documented in Mayan folk tales. They will usually assume the form of an unsuspecting human woman, but resemble a skeletal creature with rope burns around their necks in their true forms. Iya - Formless and destructive, these North American elementals are thought to be distant relatives of the trickster deity known as Iktomi. They are said to reside under the sea, and emerge onto land as enormous storms that devour villages and people alike, to feed their endless hunger. Despite their savage behavior, they are not believed to be evil by native cultures, and are sometimes held to be sacred. Jabberwocky - A monstrous dragon, this creature supposedly originates from another universe known as Wonderland, but is now found deep within European and North American forests. It resembles a hybrid of fish, dragon and insect characteristics, and is just as adept at hunting underwater as it is at flying. It is known to feed on the guilt, anxiety and the very sanity of those around it, and can only be killed using a weapon called a Vorpal Blade. Jack in the Green - Often shown in May Day parades, this English elemental being usually resembles a conical structure covered in foliage and surrounded by musicians, but is also known to be represented as a Green Man figure. The tradition in which it is featured evolved from a parade ceremony with milkmaids carrying decorated buckets, and eventually holding these on their heads. This practice was adopted by people of other professions, like chimneysweeps, with which it is now associated. Jack O'Kent - Constantly tricking and hunting demons and devils by making bogus deals with the unsuspecting evil creatures, these mischievous English faeries sometimes act as harmless bogeymen when no demons are available to trick. For example, a member of this species once persuaded a demon to build a bridge and promised it the first soul that crossed it, and then threw a bone across so that a dog would cross the bridge instead of a human. Jack the Ripper - Possibly the most historically famous example of a phantom attacker, this murderous spirit is well-known for mutilating the gruesomely murdered corpses of its female victims. It was commonly encountered in the streets of Britain throughout the Victorian era, and is still known to possess human bodies in the modern day occasionally. Jackalope - These small mammals are found in North America and Canada, and resemble rabbits with the antlers of a pronghorn deer. Although they appear sweet, and are usually docile, they are actually more aggressive than other rabbits, and will bite or scratch those that they perceive as threats. Jack-in-Irons - Covered in chains, these giant faeries are found in dark and wide roads in Britain, and are well-known for brutally mutilating and decapitating human victims, and then attaching their heads to their belts. They usually wield large, spiked clubs, and are sometimes seen to have facial features akin to those of a boar, suggesting a shapeshifting ability may be present. Jaculus - Small and specialized dragons, these winged creatures are found in the deserts of North Africa, and use their pointed beaks to impale prey that they swoop down on. They prefer to climb trees and then leap out of them to gain velocity before hitting their prey. Despite this hunting method, they are also known to use putrefying venom to kill smaller prey items. Jago-Nini - Similar to the mokèlé-mbèmbé, these African reptiles appear similar to sauropod dinosaurs, though seem to be carnivorous, unlike the extinct saurians. They feed on manatees that are found in their river habitat, but are also not afraid to attack and kill passing humans. It is thought that reports of deaths caused by the mokèlé-mbèmbé are actually the handiwork of these predators. Jaguaru - Personifying the concept of time itself, this bizarrely-deformed South American predator resembles a wolf or big cat with a hideously misshapen head adorned with five eyes, two of which will be open during the day and two of which will be open at night, while the fifth is on the neck, always open and looking towards the past. It is known as the protector of the flora and fauna of the jungle in Paraguay's Yaguarón, and is said to live in a deep and secluded cave. Jahi - Used to represent the menstrual cycle in Zoroastrian tradition, these succubus-like demons are closely related to the fearful Ahriman, and are held to be responsible for the destruction of some of the original divine creations in this religion. They are famous for their overpowering stench and their almost liquid hair is commonly simply described as 'filth'. Jangjamari - Appearing as heavily overweight humanoids, these aquatic Korean faeries are covered in seaweed and rice plants, and are often seen to play intricate and beautiful musical instruments. In traditional religious rituals and dances, they are used to represent fertility and bountiful Summer harvests, likely due to their covering of rice and vegetation. Jangsan Tiger - Dwelling the densely-forested mountainous areas in their namesake South Korean locale, these ferocious predators resemble humanoids covered in thick white fur, and usually move around like dogs or tigers. They are famous for their ability to mimic the sounds of screaming women or wailing babies, and use this to lure their prey towards them. Like manticores, they have two rows of teeth, and move incredibly swiftly. Jann - Resembling humanoid snakes, these Djinn are the rarest of their group, and feed on the fear of their victims rather than the flesh. They can do this by trapping their prey in a terrifying hallucination by injecting them with venom through touch, and then consuming the hormones produced. Japanese Tsunami Ghost - A rare variety of ghost, these beings form when a large number of souls are simultaneously drowned or killed by water in some similar manner. They appear as clouds of white vapour that seem to have minds of their own, and can even clamber over obstacles as if they were solid. The first time they were recorded was during the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami when one of them was caught on camera, prompting online interest in the phenomena. Jaracas - Vaguely serpentine demons, these Brazilian creatures are known to slither into the homes of sleeping mothers and drain their bodily fluids and breast-milk, though are also known to attack sleeping males in order to drink their blood. These victims will grow continually weaker until they waste away and die, because the monsters will come back every day until they are exorcised using specially-targeted prayers. Jarjacha - Produced from a curse placed on those who commit sexual offenses, these Peruvian creatures will transform into bizarre hybrids of humans and llamas overnight, and attack people by viciously spitting at them. The shapeshifters will then return to human form when the morning comes, and will have no memory of their moonlight activities. Jarnbuwal - Held as an important spirit-being in Australian Aboriginal culture, this enormous humanoid is sometimes referred to as the 'Thunder Man' because of its ability to create thunder by throwing the double-headed club that it wields, and produce stormy conditions in the sea by literally walking over the water. It is known to have created a sacred site for itself by smashing the side of a mountain with its club. Some researchers in the Northern Territory have linked it with Cyclone Tracy. Jasconius - Large enough to be mistaken for a mountain range when resting on the surface, this Irish sea serpent was feared by medieval travelers. Humans would land their boats at the side of the mountainous structures, and would be drowned when the creature dived deep into the water. There is a folk story about a group of sailors who landed on jasconius, and lit a fire which woke the creature from its sleep. Javerzaharses - Presiding over traditional weddings, celebrations and songs, these Armenian faeries often resemble beautiful young nymphs, and are found near pine tree forests. Close contact with them can provide humans with good fortune for childbirth and marriage. They are sometimes thought to be female equivalents to the Kaches. Jawzahr - Literally unable to die, this enormous Middle-Eastern dragon is said to have stolen a potion that enabled prevented it from being killed, but the personifications of the Sun and Moon told a group of deities that this had happened. Obviously the gods couldn't kill the monster, and so now it chases the celestial bodies on which it wants revenge. According to the local culture, lunar and solar eclipses are caused when the dragon finally catches up to the Sun or Moon. Jawzahr - Literally unable to die, this enormous Middle-Eastern dragon is said to have stolen a potion that enabled prevented it from being killed, but the personifications of the Sun and Moon told a group of deities that this had happened. Obviously the gods couldn't kill the monster, and so now it chases the celestial bodies on which it wants revenge. According to the local culture, lunar and solar eclipses are caused when the dragon finally catches up to the Sun or Moon. J'ba Fofi - Monstrous spiders, these creatures are known from the jungles of the Congo, where they produce webs stretching several meters to catch prey up the size of a small deer. They will hide in booby-trapped burrows and wait for their prey to wander into their territory. Jelly Man - Appearing for the first time in Summer of 1965 when it terrified two Spanish children while they were attempting to gather peaches, this gelatinous aberration was said to resemble a translucent, featureless humanoid with extremely long arms. The 6ft-tall creature advanced towards the witnesses while making a strange rattling sound, prompting the children to flee in terror and the being to never be seen again. Some have suggested it was ultraterrestrial in origin. Jenglot - First reported in Indonesian mythology, these vampiric creatures are born from the residue of dark magic, and will originally resemble small but grotesque dolls. However, any other person who even has connections to the magical world that comes into contact with this doll will transform into a murderous monster that must then be killed using decapitation. Jengu - Mentioned in the folklore of riverside communities in Africa and the Cameroon, these godlike merfolk bring good fortune to those that worship them, and can cure diseases as well as acting as intermediaries between ghosts and humans. They are said to act as the alphas in populations of miengu, which are sometimes recognized as their descendants. Jenny Greenteeth - This child-snatching pagan deity resembles a green skinned hag, and will live in ponds and lakes. In ancient times, children and the elderly used to be sacrificed to her, though now that this does not happen, she takes up more of a predatory role. It is important to note that she is not confined to the water, and has been known to hide in trees and caves as well. Jersey Devil - Born from a curse placed on an ancient family by a demon, this creature bears a superficial resemblance to a horse with bat wings. It roams the Pine Barrens area of New Jersey, and was responsible for a mass panic in the early 1900s. It is known to swoop down from the skies and snatch livestock from local farms. Jetete - Found in shallow bodies of water around Chile, these strange birds are thought to be closely related to flamingos because of their body morphology and behavior, and their diet of shrimp and krill. They are capable of flying small distances with their fairly stunted wings, but can use the claws on their feet to spear the crustaceans they eat. Despite not being able to fly as well as their flamingo relatives, they can run incredibly quickly using their muscular legs. Jetin - Often confused with the yeti, which hails from the same region, this ancient subspecies of polar bear was discovered to still be alive in 2013 after a hair sample's DNA was analyzed. The creature is a relic from a time when brown bears and polar bears were yet to diversify from each-other, and has a skinny frame with the ability to walk on its hind legs. It is thought to be behind the naming of a yeti as 'man-bear' in Tibetan language. Jettatori - Mentioned in the lore of the Jewish Kabbalah, these people are born with virtually no difference in their anatomy compared to regular humans, but they usually have piercingly bright-coloured eyes. They are found all across the world, and have the ability to bestow extreme bad luck and misfortune on those around them using malevolent gazes or the 'evil eye'. Some individuals of this species can be kind and benevolent, unaware of their condition and the harm they do to others. Jezebelian - Associated with the ancient biblical figure of Jezebel, these seductive vampires use their physical beauty to trick unwary passersby into joining them in secluded locations. They will then kill them and feed on their blood, rarely transforming their victims into members of their own species. Not much is known about their origins or behaviour. Jhoting - Those who spend their lives begging or scavenging for food will become these grunting and miserable ghosts after death if they die unsatisfied and desperate. According to Hindu tradition, a life of suffering and hardship will lead to a death of suffering and hardship, and those who die without any living spouses or relatives will also become these emaciated ghosts. Jiafei - When some trees reach an age of 1000 years old, they stand a chance of gaining souls of their own and morphing into these tsukumogami that are mentioned in the folklore of Japanese forested regions. They sometimes manifest as pig-like creatures that resemble the penghou, but are widely recognized to be distinct beings from these canine creatures. Jian - Avoided and feared by even the most powerful ghosts, these unnatural Chinese creatures are born from the fractured souls of ghosts whose remains have already been destroyed. They are sometimes said to be the incarnations of people who were cursed due to using forbidden demonic magic during their lifetimes. Jiangshi - Found in Asia, these animated corpses are capable of moving extremely quickly under the cover of night, thus giving them the nickname of 'hopping vampire'. They feed on the life force of sleeping victims, and will swiftly return to their coffins come daylight. They are terrified of their own reflections for unknown reasons. Jiaolong - Described as resembling fish-like creatures with the heads of tigers and the tails of serpents, these nebulous aquatic Chinese dragons are usually found in brooks and rivers, and are known to trap human victims with their sticky saliva before pulling them into the water and draining their blood from their armpits. They are said to manifest in waters where the number of fish has reached 3600, and will function as their leaders, but will disappear if a fish-trap is placed in the water. Jigar Khoy - Stealing seed-like organs containing the souls of their victims from their magically-mesmerised bodies, these bizarre North Indian vampires will then implant the stolen organs into their own legs in order to cook them, literally roasting their own limbs over a fire to make the organs edible before serving them to other members of their species. They can also make more of themselves by recruiting apprentices who are willing to learn dark magic and then eat cakes made of human livers. Jikininki - Cursed to forever wander the Earth and consume the rotting corpses of the dead, these ghoulish Japanese undead are thought to represent the souls of those who were greedy and cruel in life, but not evil enough to enter Hell. They are self-aware, and have often been known to lament the hunger that so often controls them, sometimes begging passing magic users to exorcise them. Jikininki are capable of shapeshifting, and usually only take on their monstrous forms when they feed. Jimeng - Humanoid creatures with the heads and scales of dragons, these Chinese beings are found in thick forests and atop secluded mountains. They seem to have a degree of control over the fauna in their vicinity, as well as the weather. This ability has led to some speculation that they may represent deities or demi-gods. Jimmy Squarefoot - Wandering the mountains of the Isle of Man, these mighty boar-headed giants are so named because of the great masses of bandages that are often seen to coat their feet. They are sometimes used as mounts by the brutal Foawr, though they are thought to be peaceful when not manipulated. Jimplicute - Seamlessly blending into the environment around them due to their bizarre, asymmetrical bodies and colour-changing scales, these dragon-like reptiles are found in the forests of North America, and are sometimes mistakenly said to be vampiric ghost dinosaurs. Their breathing mimics the blowing of leaves, and is said to be strangely soothing to humans, often putting them into drowsy states before the reptiles swallow them whole. Jimplicutes can only be killed by harpoons. Jin Tanah - Dwelling in deep forests across Malaysia, these terrifying elemental demons are born from cursed soil or earth on which massacres or battles have taken place. They have the ability to control the flora and fauna of their forest habitats, and use this power for their own wrathful purposes. Their name suggests a relation to Djinn, though this is unconfirmed. Jinja Hime - Spending most of their lives under the waters of Japan, these prophetic serpents have two horns on their heads and the faces of human women. It is said that they foretell great tragedies and then save the lives of those who see them doing so. A member of this species was first seen in 1819, when it predicted a disease epidemic and a crop failure. Jinmenju - Nigh-ridiculous Asian trees, these bizarre entities were first heard of from the mountains of China, and are legendary for their unique ability to grow laughing fruit with human faces. These fruit always smile or laugh, even when they are picked, and is said that they taste both sweet and sour if eaten. It is thought that the trees are much rarer nowadays because their seeds are continually eaten. Jinmenken - The lost spirits of road accident victims, these Japanese ghosts take on the forms of dogs with humanoid faces, and are known to appear on highways at night and run at extremely high speeds. They are capable of human speech, though will either attack or ask to be left alone instead of engaging in a conversation. Strangely, the beings seem to be of a recent origin. Jinshin-Mushi - Small Japanese insects, these creatures have organs on the backs of their thorax that can produce powerful sound waves if they are threatened. A swarm of the animals using their abilities at the same time can generate a localized earthquake, and cause many types of minerals to collapse. Jiraiya - Practicing ninja-like fighting skills, these Japanese shapeshifters are said to have originated from an ancient warrior who used magic to morph into an enormous frog during battle. They are skilled combatants, and can leap great distances. As mentioned in the folklore, they have a natural adversity with snakes and serpents. Jnana Dakini Simhamukha - Manifesting as a humanoid female with the head of a lion, this violent and wrathful entity is known from the Vajrayana Buddhism of India and Asia, and is said to be a vengeful remnant of a previously-existing Ḍākinī as opposed to a spirit subjugated by magic. It acts as a meditation deity known as a Yidam, repelling attacks by malevolent psychics or demons. This being is the Buddhist equivalent of the lion-riding Hindu deity known as Durga, both repelling demons. Jnun - Completely invisible spirits in their true forms, these Moroccan djinn can shapeshift either into attractive human women or monstrous hags with froglike features, and are capable of possessing human victims if they are encountered and the human does not stab a knife into the ground to protect themselves. This possession is destructive and can result in psychological damage or infertility, especially since the Jnun cannot be exorcised, and must instead be placated using sacrifices. Jodie the Pig - Truly unnatural and terrifying, this hideous entity appeared as a porcine humanoid with glowing red eyes, and the ability to shapeshift as well as alter its size at will. It positioned itself as the imaginary friend of a young girl involved in the original 1975 Amityville case, and was only visible to her. This North American demonic beast has not been seen since. Jo-gä-oh - Mentioned in the folklore of certain Native American tribes, these small faeries inhabit caves and rocky outcrops beside rivers, and enjoy playing catch with humans that they see. They are mostly protective spirits, and are in charge of ripening the fruit as the seasons change, as well as guarding the entrance to the Underworld. Joimârița - Similar to the Krampus, this Romanian bogeymen lurks in mountainous areas, and will stalk and punish children that they view as disobedient or rude towards their authority figures. They resemble humanoids with horns and fangs, and are also known to be capable of possessing human bodies, such as those of family members or loved ones of their victims. Jólakötturinn - Also known as Yule Cats, these savage Icelandic creatures act as bogeymen during the Christmas period, hunting down and killing those who have not received new clothes before Christmas Eve. This was often used as an incentive for farmers to finish processing their wool before the festive period, and it was said that all those who helped them do this would be rewarded with new clothes, whereas all those who did not would be devoured by the brutal cats. Jörmungandr - One of the children of Loki, this mighty serpent is said in Norse mythology to surround the entire world by coiling through its oceans and clutching onto its own tail. In ancient times, it was bound by the pantheon of Norse gods to prevent it from destroying the world. However, it is spoken in these same myths that the beast will reawaken during the apocalypse, known as Ragnarök. Jorōgumo - Making their nests in the caves, forests or empty houses of Japan, these shapeshifting arachnids prey on young men who are looking for love. They will invite these victims into their home, using the form of a beautiful woman, and then use a powerful venom to slowly eat their bodies. They are capable of spinning silk strong enough to trap a full-grown human, and can control other spiders using pheromones. Jötunn - Greatly varying in size and appearance despite being often known as frost giants, these Norse faeries are said to have originally been born from the body of a defeated titan known as Ymir. Some modern-day deities are said to be descended from these monsters, and some groups of trolls can also trace their ancestry back to them. The males of the species are usually hideous and savage, whereas the females are beautiful and reasonable. Jovian - Found in the upper atmosphere of the gas giant planet known as Jupiter, these enormous alien creatures appear as living zeppelins or flying jellyfish, and bear a resemblance to the atmospheric beasts of Earth. Very little is known about them because of the hostility of their home environment, but they are not thought to be sapient due to the lack of communication between organisms that has been detected on the planet. J-Rod - A member of a distinct species of benevolent Grey alien, this strange being acts as a telepathic translator for the human workers at the North American Area 51 base. It is not known if it is the only member of this isolated species kept secret by the government, though it is the only one that has been photographed and studied. Jubjub Bird - Dwelling in the skies above the same bizarre Wonderland from which the Jabberwocky hails, these deadly birds emit shrill cries like pens being run along chalk boards, and usually make their nests in drab and depressing areas. They are described as desperate and living in a perpetual state of passion in the nonsense poems in which they are first mentioned. Their diet includes oysters, eggs and the flesh of sheep and other livestock. Jubokko - This disgusting tree grows on battlefields and the sites of other atrocities, and use their long roots to feed on the blood that has soaked into the soil. However, they are also known to shape their branches and tendrils into fine tubes to drain passersby of blood and fluids. It is from this foul behavior that they get their nickname of 'vampire tree'. Jué - According to ancient Chinese esoteric texts, rhesus monkeys which live for longer than 500 years will eventually become these hairy humanoid-like entities with blue hair, and walk upright to reach heights of 1.6 meters. All individuals of the species are male, so they must kidnap human females to produce children, and all those women who do not produce children will eventually transform into Jué themselves. The hybrid children will look like humans, and will have the surname 'Yang'. Juggernaut - Bearing the image of an ancient pagan god, these massive constructs are used in the ritual practices of the Hindu religion as enormous floats during parades. However, there are stories of the enormous beings crushing those that get too close, and it is known that they are sometimes used as weapons by the gods to which they are devoted. Julana - Thought to have originated from an individual who endlessly wandered the Earth with his father during the Dreamtime, but then became a lonely ghost when his physical body died, these frightening Australian spirits quickly morphed into rapacious demons. They will burrow underneath the sands of the Outback, and erupt from the desert in order to ambush and assault female passersby. These attacks are often of a sexual nature, and so some researchers have suggested a connection to incubi. Jumart - Born from the incredibly rare unison of a horse and a bull, these French creatures usually resemble a horse with the hindquarters of a bovine, though have been known to sometimes have noticeable horns. The mount of the historic Alexander the Great is said to have been a member of this species. Jumbee - The subjects of numerous superstitions across the Caribbean, these demonic ghosts are thought to represent the corrupt and wrathful spirits of those who were judged to be evil in life. They are capable of shapeshifting, and are sometimes known to possess people if they are not appeased through ritualistic offerings. Like faeries, they cannot move past granulated substances without counting them, and are unable to cross running water. Jungfrauenadler - Closely related to harpies and sirins, these birdlike monsters are capable of reasoning and sentience unlike their evolutionary cousins. They were often depicted in the heraldic art of medieval Europe, and were referred to as 'virgin eagles' within this context. In appearance, they resemble large birds with the heads and chests of human women. Jurawadbad - Shapeshifting Nāga-like Australian creatures, these reptilian beings can alternate between the forms of large serpents and humanoids indistinguishable from the general population. They often marry particularly beautiful humans that they take a liking to, but are known to murder these individuals using their venomous bites if they cheat on them or are otherwise unfaithful. Jurupari - Endeavoring to create an entirely male-dominated world, these misogynistic South American demons are given scant mentions in ancient mythology, and are said to be descended from some kind of Sun deity. Their eyes burn gold with a fiery yellow light, which signify their solar heritage. Very little information is given about their abilities or behavior in the mythology. Ka'aguy Póra - Found in the thick jungles of the South American region of Paraguay, these bizarre faeries resemble amorphous masses of tentacles in their true forms, but prefer to assume the shapes of gnarled trees. They act as ruthless protectors of the jungle flora and fauna, hunting down and brutally killing anyone who seeks to exploit the region. No matter which form they take, they will always have single eyes that glow 'like fireflies'. Kabagon - Large and grey, these massive aquatic mammals were first observed by fishing vessels off the coast of New Zealand in 1974, and were recorded to resemble giant hippopotamuses. It is speculated that they are relatives of relic populations of extinct sea mammals like the desmostylids. Kabus - Frightening Middle Eastern horned Djinn, these grey-skinned creatures descend upon sleeping humans and cause nightmares and sleep paralysis, as well as chronic illnesses. They are usually depicted in artwork with large orange-feathered wings, and pinkish garments, as well as two other horned Djinn flanking them. Kaches - Gluttonous and musical air elementals, these Armenian faeries are said to provide a link between the world of humans and the kingdoms of local deities, whom they serve. They are benevolent spirits, and often invite humans to join in with their raucous parties and excessive drinking. They are often compared to elementals found across Europe, such as kobolds or devas. Kachina - Heavily featured in the folklore of the Pueblo Native Americans, these elemental spirits are not deities despite often being confused with them due to the vast array of appearances that they can assume. According to Hopi lore, many of the Kachinas were killed in an ancient battle, leaving only their masks and paraphenalia which are now used in ceremonial dances. Different Kachinas are the representations of different characteristics of the world around them, and the local human populations treat them with reverence and respect so that their surroundings remain safe and prosperous. Kafre - Found in the mountains and jungles of the Philippines, these humanoid boars are capable of moving around on both four legs and two, and are said to be able to speak local languages to a limited degree. However, they are not intelligent and their attempts to hunt and kill humans for food can easily be outwitted. Kaftar - Nimble and deadly shapeshifters, these Middle-Eastern creatures are much rarer nowadays due to a cure for their condition being discovered in 1376. They stalk the deserts and small towns on their outskirts, preying mostly on children that they are able to catch. It is for this reason that they are considered by some to be bogeymen. Kage Onna - Closely related to shadow people, these terrifying Japanese phantoms appear in rundown buildings when the moon is bright in the sky, manifesting onto windows and doors. They resemble the shadows of either young women or hideous hags, and move around even though there is no actual person around to cast them. The houses in which kage onna appear will soon become haunted by other, more destructive, ghosts and monsters. Kagewani - Horrendous undead sharks, these creatures swim in the seas surrounding Japan and Asia, and feed on the shadows of ill-fated fishermen. Once their shadows have been completely consumed, the victim will be doomed to waste away and eventually turn to dust. Even if the creature is killed, the victim will still die prematurely. Kaiaimunu - Found in the grasslands of Papau New Guinea, these feathered dinosaurs are relatives of therizinosaurus, and feed on small animals and tough vegetation. They are sometimes mistaken for sauropods because of their long necks, as well as being feared and persecuted because of their vicious-looking claws. There is some truth to the latter rumor, though, because the creatures have a habit of lashing out with their claws if threatened. Kaijin - First recorded in the manuscripts of historical Japanese naturalists, these aquatic hairy humanoids are often seen in cold coastal waters in their home territory, and are poorly adapted for life on the ground. They have sometimes been recorded to wear primitive clothing or seal skins around their waists. Kakasbal - Detailed in the Mayan mythology of Central America, this hideously grotesque demon is said to resemble a humanoid creature formed from dismembered organs and covered in dark hair, with the limbs and testicles of various animals hanging from its body. Everything about it is deadly, seeing as looking directly at its eyes causes instant death and its breath turns crops to dust. It can travel through shadows and can change humans into evil caricatures of themselves using its voice. Kalanoro - Rare primates, these quill-backed creatures live deep within the forests and caverns of Madagascar, and feed on fish, vegetables and grain. Their long spines supposedly imbue them with supernatural strength, and thus the material is sought after by local mystics and shamans. It is said that the creatures have lived on the island since long before humans arrived, and the first encounters were reported with the first ever people on the landmass. Kalgajaad - Resembling yetis or other hairy humanoids, these powerful Canadian spirits appear to those who manage to survive harsh winters or glaciations periods, and are often depicted in masks and costumes in traditional tribal rituals. Not much is known about them, though they are usually thought of as being an all-female race, and their name translates as 'ice woman'. Kalku - Pale-skinned and evil Chilean sorcerers, these beings are sometimes thought to be the undead souls of dark magicians that were resurrected to serve powerful evil entities. They are often found in the general areas of creatures such as nguruvilu and chonchons, and are capable of casting powerful hexes and curses on those who cross them. Kallikantzaros - Found in Southeastern Europe and Greece, these goblin-like demons emerge from their underground hiding places from the 25th of December to the 6th of January. They are creatures of the night, and will attack those that they encounter, though can be warded off by placing a cull ender on one's doorstep. Any child born during the aforementioned 12 days has a risk of transforming into one of the creatures when they reach adulthood. Kamaitachi - These creatures have learnt to ride hurricanes and tornadoes, and resemble weasels with sickles in the place of their claws. They move at such speeds to be invisible to the naked eye, and are so swift with their attack that they can remove chunks of flesh without drawing blood before the wound is healed by an enzyme that their saliva emits. Kamikiri - Seemingly simple and inoffensive creatures, these Japanese monsters scuttle around urban areas, and use their lobster-like claws to suddenly cut the hair of humans that wander by their habitat. This is not threatening in itself, though an attack by one of these creatures is often a sign that the victim is about to unknowingly marry a spirit or shapeshifter. Kampe - This monstrous deity appears as a grotesque hybrid of a human woman, a dragon and a scorpion, with a body covered in writhing venomous snakes. She acted as a guard for the gates of Tartarus, which was believed to be the ancient Greek idea of Hell. Luckily, she was killed when Zeus and the Greek pantheon invaded this realm to free a prisoner. Kanaima - Described in the folklore of Northwestern Brazil, these wrathful ghosts are capable of possessing human victims and forcing them to shapeshift into animal-like monsters. They then use this form to sadistically hunt and torture surrounding humans, using their claws as ranged weapons that they can fire forth from their fingertips. In order to leave their host, the creatures must perform a specific ritual involving the ingestion of the victims' blood after killing them. Kanaloa - Serving a complementary role to one of the main four Hawaiian deities named Kāne, this strange god is usually depicted as an octopus or squid, and is sometimes said to have been the leader of a group of spirits that waged war against the gods, but to have been relegated to ruling the Underworld after this rebellion failed. However, because of the close relationship that Kanaloa has with Kāne, it has been suggested that Kanaloa's evil nature was an invention of Christian missionaries. Kanazuchibō - Resembling giant humanoid ants, these strange Japanese creatures were born from groups of regular ants that were worshipped for their mound-building abilities in an ancient Japanese religion, and grew wrathful and monstrous when the religion died out. They are often seen wielding mallet-like weapons, and are regarded as spirits of cowardice, either targeting those who are cowards or making those that they haunt extremely meek and fearful. Kandahar Giant - Suddenly attacking a squadron of US soldiers after being found in a cave in Afghanistan, this redheaded giant was soon killed by the group of soldiers. Apparently, this wasn't before a member of the team was skewered by the giant's sword. There is speculation by the hunter community that this creature may have been a rephaite, though this is unable to be verified because the US government is covering the incident up. Kani Bouzu - Haunting Japanese temples and places of religious worship, these bizarre hybrid humanoids resemble monks or warriors with the features of gigantic crabs. They ask passersby confusing riddles and questions, and if they cannot answer these questions the monsters will beat them to death using their claws. Kanontsistóntie’s - Born from the gruesome slaughter and beheading of innocent shamans during a period of famine in a North American village, these shapeshifting beings are sometimes simply known as 'flying heads'. They haunt those who are related by blood to those who committed the ancient atrocity, and are known to drag their prey into deep bodies of water such as rivers and lakes. Kappa - Resembling a humanoid turtle, these aquatic Japanese spirits swim in the rivers and will attack those that get too close. They have a hollow area on their heads which contains water, and if this water is spilt the creature will become immobile. Although usually tenacious when hunting prey, they can be dissuaded from this by a cucumber with the victim's name written on it. Kapre - Dwelling in the forests and woodlands of the Philippines, these tough-skinned faeries are mostly nocturnal, and are well-known for carrying cigars or lit matches in their hands. They have sometimes been said to fall in love with human companions, and then follow them throughout their lives. If they are threatened, they will transform into trees, and if those trees are cut down then the creatures will become vengeful. Karabasan - These evil djinn are akin to succubi, and will descend on sleeping humans that have eaten in their beds or are not fully covered. They can be seen or heard when they do this, and the victim will be in a nightmarish state where they experience a heavy weight pressing down on their chest. Karakoncolos - Appearing in Turkish and Serbian cities and lurking on shadowy street corners during the Christmas period, these large hairy humanoids are intelligent and duplicitous, and enjoy asking passersby riddles. If the word 'black' is not in the answer to these riddles, the monsters will kill the travelers by paralyzing them and leaving them to freeze to death. They can shapeshift into forms such as those of innocent children or loved ones to lure victims closer to them. Kara-Kondjiolos - Vampiric shapeshifters known from the folklore of Turkey, these werewolf-like creatures are sometimes associated with nightmares and other sleep-related traumas, and are said to fly through the air using uprooted tree-stumps at night. They do this in order to search for unlucky victims to drain of blood, and are also known as either 'Karakondlo' or 'Karkan-Tebokis'. Very little else is known about them despite their unique method of locomotion and hunting. Karakondzhul - Appearing in Bulgaria and the Balkans between Christmas and Epiphany, these hideous undead aberrations resemble bizarre winged hybrids with horns, hooves and thick dark hair, and are thought to be represent the resurrected bodies of people who were born during the 'Unclean Days', between January 7th and January 19th. They will either kill their victims immediately, or ride on their backs and crush them under their weight until dawn. Drawing a cross with ash will repel them. Karakura - Vaguely masculine night demons known from Turkish folklore, these incubus-like spirits are said to bring nightmares to sleeping humans and perhaps even literally steal their lungs, as well as to menace women during the postpartum period. They specifically target people who leave breadcrumbs in their beds. Although physical descriptions of them are usually scant, they are said to be the sizes of goats in the Konya region, but are said to be shapeless in Erzincan and Erzurum. Karkadann - A variant of the unicorn to be found in Persian territories, these creatures resemble a hybrid of a rhinoceros and a ceratopsian dinosaur. Nowadays, they are found in small numbers on the plains of their habitat, and will act viciously to all animals except human virgins. Karkançoli - Found in Albania and documented in the folklore of the Romani Gypsy people, these hideous undead creatures resemble corpses covered in chains or iron clothing, and are only active in January when they hunt for human victims. They contantly emit deadly fumes in the form of their breath, and are sometimes equated with Albanian sickness demons as a result of this, as well as being confused with Kukudhi and even Kallikantzaros because of their similar names. Karkinos - Found in swamps and marshlands in Greece and Europe, these enormous crabs are featured in the ancient legend revolving around Heracles' triumph over the Lernaean hydra. They use their massive pincers to break the bones of their prey, and are known to feed on large animals that wander too close to their watery habitat. The constellation of Cancer is named after these monsters. Karura - Protecting human communities from serpents, dragons and bad weather, these mighty elemental beings resemble enormous avian humanoids with red feathers and the heads of eagles. They can produce large quantities of flame and fire from their beaks, and are worshipped in some branches of Japanese Buddhism. Their home realm is Heaven, but they are observed to come down from Earthly mountains when they are needed. Karura - Protecting human communities from serpents, dragons and bad weather, these mighty elemental beings resemble enormous avian humanoids with red feathers and the heads of eagles. They can produce large quantities of flame and fire from their beaks, and are worshipped in some branches of Japanese Buddhism. Their home realm is Heaven, but they are observed to come down from Earthly mountains when they are needed. Karyōbinga - Preaching Buddhist religious messages in their hypnotically beautiful voices, these winged beings resemble the classical sirins or harpies, and were originally mentioned in Indian mythology. They are believed to start emitting spiritual songs whilst inside their eggs, and to then move on to a special realm of Paradise when they die. Listening to their songs can help people achieve enlightenment. Karzełek - Living in the mines and cave tunnels of Russia, these faeries are the guardians of rocks and precious gemstones, but are considered kindly and helpful towards miners and explorers. They will guide those who are lost to safety, as well as leading treasure hunters to veins of ore and precious metals. However, if they are offended they can be deadly, and are known to push miners off large inclines and make tunnels collapse. Kasai Rex - Although often represented as a surviving, African theropod dinosaur, this creature is really a large monitor lizard. It hunts mostly rhinoceroses or smaller animals in its territory, and is capable of standing upright on its hind legs to scare off potential rivals. Kasa-Obake - Created from an umbrella that has gained a life of its own, these creatures are not malevolent towards humans, and will instead behave in a playful manner. However, there are other umbrella-like spirits that are dangerous to humans, and so caution must be taken not to confuse the two. Kasha - Ghoulish Japanese creatures, these monsters resemble humanoid felines that are permanently covered in hellish flames. They lurk around areas such as morgues and funeral parlours in order to facilitate their diet of fresh human corpses. At traditional funeral services, a specific incantation is spoken by the priest to ward off the beings. Kaster - Strange Danish faeries, these creatures resemble male humans with gems and precious minerals of various kinds growing from their flesh. Passersby are free to reach out and take these crystals, though will be immediately taken back to the creatures' lairs if they touch any part of their skin that isn't covered by gems. Katakan - Usually classified as higher vampires due to their monstrous bodies and powerful shapeshifting abilities, these massive bloodsuckers hide in shadows, turning invisible to wait for human prey on which to feed. They resemble enormous bipedal bats with long claws, and can only be traced by watching their shadow move as they are invisible. Although not killed by sunlight, their regenerative abilities are at their weakest at midday, but they are still invulnerable to steel weaponry. Katanes - Slender and monstrous, these small hairy humanoid vampires use their sharp teeth to maul and attack isolated humans and drain their blood. They resemble extremely thin and almost emaciated goblins, and are mostly known from the teachings of the Islamic religion of the Middle East. Katavi - Commanding an army of evil water spirits, this malevolent African elemental is mentioned in the Nyamwezi mythology of Tanzania, and is said to be present in deserts and barren wasteland areas as well as among the lakes and waterways of the country. There is a national park in Tanzania that bears its name, but it seems that it is actually named after a different individual called Katabi. Offerings were left for Katabi around a sacred tree. Kataw - Capable of controlling the aquatic fauna in their vicinity, these strange faeries resemble merfolk, and are found in the waters surrounding the Philippines. They resemble beautiful women with light skin from the waist up, but then have long tails covered in scales instead of a lower body. Not only can they control fish, they have the ability to literally haunt the dreams of those that cross them, physically harming them through their sleep. Katen-Pai - Resembling aquatic bears or large and deformed cattle, these strange Australian beasts are mostly known from a bizarre skull displayed in a local museum during 1847. Because of their unusual and monstrous appearance, these cryptic mammals are often mixed in with reports of bunyips or other such creatures. Katib - Following the humans to which they are assigned everywhere from birth to death, these angels are said to record every deed committed by the person, good or evil. They are attested to in the teachings of the Islamic religion, and the records that they keep are used to judge the souls of the deceased and decide if they should be sent to Heaven or Hell. Katsura-Otoko - Inhumanly beautiful, these Japanese faeries are said to live on the surface of the moon, and to feed on the souls of humans who stare up at them for too long. Looking into their eyes has a severely hypnotic effect, and shortens the lifespan of those who are captured in their gaze. Their victims will eventually age so much that they drop dead. Kattakyn - Terrifying undead predators described in Norse mythology as resemble massive cats, these creatures are often shapeshifted into by draugr or other powerful undead humanoids. They have long claws and vicious teeth with which they can rip the flesh from hapless victims. Like other undead, they can be killed by decapitation. Kavay - Related to shrews and other insectivores, these Madagascan mammals are found in shallow pools of water, and will leap out to attack human passersby, displaying strong territorial behavior. Like the Aztec ahuizotl, they will feed on the eyes and fingernails of animals or humans that they kill. It is not known if this is simply a product of convergent evolution, or if the animals are related. Kaw Kaw - Hideous and sluggish Maltese bogeymen, these creatures resemble fat humanoids that can stretch to impossible lengths to swallow victims whole. Those who are consumed will be transported to a prison-like pocket dimension in which they will be constantly fed on by the creature. Even with several victims in its stomach, the monsters can become as thin as a sheet of paper to enter houses silently. Kawanchā - Most closely resembling the animated skeletons of hairy humanoids, these Nepalese undead creatures are usually depicted as the antitheses to the household faeries known as khyāh. They are sometimes depicted in ancient rituals alongside the smaller beings, and are depicted at the entrances to temples or other religious buildings, apparently to act as guardians. Kawelo - Usually completely invisible and thought to lack any sort of true form, these Hawaiian trickster demons are well-known for their shapeshifting abilities and the cruel pranks that they play on nearby humans. It is thought that they were originally humans who used magic to such a degree that they ascended to the power-level of local deities. Kawuk - Lurking the graveyards and burial grounds of Indonesia, these ghoulish reptiles feed on the flesh of human corpses that they dig up, and curiously stalk people who enter these areas. They hunt in packs and will viciously attack living humans if they are starving, and can be warded off using a traditional religious machete weapon. Kayeri - Rapacious forest creatures, these shapeshifting beings resemble humanoid monsters with large mushrooms atop their heads in their true form. They appear exclusively after rainstorms and floods in their Venezuelan habitat, and are known to feed on cattle and to kidnap human women. Although they seem invulnerable, they can be killed by firing a bone-tipped arrow into their kidney area. Kayış Baldır - Resembling elderly men without arms or legs in their most common forms, these parasitic Turkish demons sit innocently by the sides of lakes and rivers, and are known to ask unwary travelers to carry them to the other side. If the travelers agree to this, straps will suddenly burst forth from where the monsters' arms and legs should be, as well as their bellies. The travelers will be unable to escape these harnesses, and the demons will then enslave them to their will. Kchi Awas - Virtually impervious to human weaponry, these savage and destructive Native American monsters resemble hairless bears, and are well-known for their exceptionally large heads. Some legends say that their hair falls out because of their continued consumption of human flesh. They can only be killed by shooting them in the soles of the feet. Kci-Athussos - Lake serpents recognized in the mythology of the Native Americans, these monstrous horned reptiles lurk in swamps and lakes, and lunge out of the water to swallow passersby. Their name literally means 'great serpent', and they are said to have relations with the atosis species. Keagyihl Depguesk - Haunting North American lakes and rivers, these volatile and unpredictable water elementals usually appear as enormous whirlpools, and are known to drag passersby to watery graves. According to a local legend, a benevolent spirit tamed one of these creatures by making wind and water elementals work together to turn the whirlpool into a gentle brook. This tamed tempest became a source of fish and livelihood for the local population. Keelut - Similar to the North American variant of the chupacabra, these hairless canine predators are mentioned in Inuit mythology as harbingers of death. They feed on corpses that they dig up from graveyards, and are capable of disappearing and teleporting at will. The creatures are said to not leave tracks, giving those that it is hunting no warning of its presence. Keen-Keeng - Living in tribal groups throughout large caves on the Western Australian border, these frightening shapeshifters worship an unknown fire deity, and often sacrifice human victims to this entity. They are usually indistinguishable from humans, except for the fact that they lack the first two digits of normal human hands and are capable of transforming their arms into bat wings by raising them above their heads. This ability is mostly used to travel long distances and find sacrifices. Kee-Wakw - Formed either from humans who committed terrible crimes such as cannibalism, or from innocent people who were possessed by demons, these monstrous shapeshifters roam the woodlands of North America. They resemble hybrids of humans and animals, and have hearts literally made from ice. Their hairy bodies and savage behavior are reminiscent of wendigos. Keitloa - This uncommon variant of rhinoceros is found mostly in South Africa, and is notable for its longer posterior horn and bluish coloration. It has a slightly longer neck than regular rhinoceroses, and an overhanging lip that resembles a beak. They were once recognized by official science, though have since been relegated to being classified as monsters because of their rarity. Kejōrō - Usually resembling beautiful human women when viewed from behind, these freakish Japanese monsters lurk in brothels and red light districts, luring young men towards them before slicing them to pieces using their thick and matted hair. Despite this, they can be very affectionate to other non-human sentient species, and are often known to cut off strands of their hair to send to their lovers or get tattoos on their skin of their lovers' names. Kek - The personification of primordial darkness among the ranks of the Ancient Egyptian Ogdoad, this dualistic deity is also known as Kekui or Kekuit depending on the gender that it presents itself as, having either the head of a serpent or a frog respectively. It has been likened to Erebus and other rulers of darkness and chaos. Modern scholars have noted a similarity between Pepe the Frog, a symbol associated with the 2016 Presidential Election and alt-right. Kek - Unrelated to the deity with which it shares its name, this ostensibly demonic entity is known from the Q'eqchi' Mayan folklore of Central America, in which it is described as a centaur-like being that serves to protect the houses of its patrons at nighttime, but will rampage around at dusk with the intention of frightening unsuspecting victims. Its name means 'black', and it is further described as a black creature covered in hair, with horse-like hooves but hands like those of a man. Kélenken - One of the three main evil spirits spoken of in the Aonikenk folklore of Patagonia, this enormous avian demon is found across Chile and Argentina, where it is often accompanied by a spirit of the cold known as Maip, believed to be its brother. It resembles an enormous bird of prey with three massive claws and a long tail ending in two points, and feeds on human suffering, appearing during painful childbirths to drink the tears of the mother and bewitch the children while cackling. Kelpie - These aquatic shapeshifters come from Scotland, and will often assume the form of a horse to lure innocent victims onto their backs. As soon as the victim mounts the creature, it will dive into the water and drown them. They are also able to become humans in order to interact with others and seduce them as another method of luring humans into lakes. Kenmun - Capable of shapeshifting as well as producing fire, these semi-arboreal pukwudgie relatives are known from the Japanese Amami Islands, where they are not regarded as evil despite their strange insistence on challenging human passersby to sumo wrestling matches. Like the kappas to which they are closely related, their heads contain a small amount of water, and they can be tricked into emptying this and depleting their strength by taking advantage of their enjoyment of mimicking humans. Kentauride - Slightly rarer than their centaur kin, these creatures originate from Greece and Europe, and were even mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare. They have torsos like beautiful women, and the bodies of horses, but seem to be more able to control their animalistic impulses than centaurs are. Kentish Crab - This monstrous aquatic arthropod was caught on Google Earth cameras on the coast of Whitstable, but has since disappeared after consuming some local pets. Other animals like it have been reported, leading to the classification of a new species of monster. Keres - Representing violent deaths such as those due to murder, war wounds or pestilence according to Greek mythology, these savage winged spirits resemble vaguely-feminine humanoids clad in bloodied clothing, and are known to physically rip the souls out of the bodies of the dying before feasting on the blood in their corpses. Vast numbers of Keres can be seen hovering over battlefields, fighting among themselves like vultures vying for a larger share of the corpses below. Kētos - These powerful sea beasts resemble a reptilian hybrid of a fish and a dragon, and are able to venture up onto land using a limited shapeshifting ability. They will consume human virgins, only targeting this demographic for unknown reasons. One member of this species, called Cetus, was slain by the ancient Greek hero Perseus. Ketos Indikos - Inhabiting the Indian Ocean according to Ancient Greek belief, these aquatic hybrids are hunted and eaten by the local people of Sri Lanka, who claim that the creatures are amphibious, and are known to emerge onto land at night to feed on figs, which they retrieve from trees by wrapping themselves around them and shaking them violently. It is unlikely that they are a single species because of the diversity of their appearances, with their only commonality being their long tails. Keukegen - Although they are cute to look at, these Japanese creatures are actually formed from a mass of dirty, greasy human hair. They will flock towards unclean houses, and bring disease and pestilence to the inhabitants. They are shy in nature, and will be rarely seen, even by those who live in close proximity to them. Keythong - These griffins have no wings, and have quills and dragon-like horns on their heads instead. The males of the species produce a thick and virulent toxin from these spines, which is often taken by magic users to use in poisons and potions. They were first discovered on isolated islands off the coast of 15th century Europe. Khalkotauroi - Created by ancient Greek deities, these bronze bulls are capable of moving at incredible speeds and producing flame from their mouths and noses. They are often used to kill or challenge those which the gods dislike, and are recorded to have attacked the mythological figure of Jason whilst he attempted to obtain the Golden Fleece. Khanyangi - First encountered in August of 1945 when a Soviet pilot named Vasiliy Yegorov crashed in Inner Mongolia, these 45cm-tall hairy humanoids resembled anthropomorphic monkeys, and appeared to Vasiliy shortly after he woke up tied to the ground by semi-transparent tape and surrounded by the sounds of birds. The ultraterrestrial humanoids then took him below ground into a network of tunnels, where he apparently remained for 15 years before being found after a trepanation. Khardajeen - Indescribable aberrations, these strange subterranean creatures are mentioned in modern fantasy literature, and resemble little more than spheres of multicoloured liquid surrounded by floating rock and metal fragments, and can manifest crystalline tentacles to manipulate the environment around them. They are innately attracted to the presence and use of ancient magical artifacts, and it is such objects that are known to be the only cause of large gatherings of the creatures, which are otherwise solitary. Khepri - These shapeshifters live in Egypt, and are known to have inspired the myth of a goddess who would roll the sun across the sky like the dung beetle which she resembled. Instead, there is a small population of these creatures, and they are capable of manipulating the heat of the environment around them. Khmer Devarāja - Similar to pharaohs, these Asian demigods are held to be the Earthly manifestations of several Hindu gods such as Shiva or Vishnu. Several religious rituals centering around the beings took place in the ancient civilizations of countries such as Java and Cambodia, and the temples that were built can still be seen today. When they die, it thought that they are reincarnated as deities themselves. Khmóc Prây - Born from the wrathful and abandoned souls of women who died in childbirth, these demons are usually invisible, and are found in the treetops of Cambodia. They enjoy throwing large stones and boulders at passersby, laughing loudly as they do so. This action has sometimes been known to kill innocent human victims. Khodumodumo - Resembling enormous indescribable mounds of flesh with vast mouths and tongues covered in blades, these grotesque South African aberrations are known to be capable of wading through villages and devouring enormous quantities of humans and livestock alike. There is a local folktale which describes a woman becoming the only survivor of a Khodumodumo attack by hiding under a heap of ashes, and later giving birth to a child who slew the monster and became a mighty hero. Khon Paa - Said to be capable of running faster than a horse despite having no knee joints, these utterly bizarre humanoid aberrations are found in the forests of Thailand, and resemble 5ft-tall entities with transparent flesh, meaning that their intestines and skeletal structures are constantly visible. In the ancient culture of Bangkok, the presence of one of these creatures was considered unlucky, and anyone who brought one there would be punished by having all of their property confiscated. Khovanets - Taking an extreme disliking to being witnessed by humans, these household faeries are found in Ukraine, where they tidy and clean homes at night and when they are not observed. Their name literally means 'hider', and they have sometimes been known to become aggressive if forcefully observed. Because of their abilities and behavior, they are thought to be related to brownies and domovoi. Khrut - Thought by some to be synonymous with Garuda, these powerful guardian creatures are found in Thailand and Indonesia, and represent the Sun and fire. Their traditional image is depicted in several art sources across their country. They have large winged bodies and vicious flaming beaks, and are known to hunt and kill serpents or other reptilian beasts, such as dragons. Khyāh - Short and plump, these Nepalese hairy humanoids are thought to be related to faeries or domovoi, and are known to dwell in dark basements or attics. Being capable of both good and evil, they are said to either bring good luck or disaster to their residences. They are scared of electric lighting, and will make anyone who sees them ill as a defense mechanism. Kidney Thief - Unable to die, these people originate from a 19th century scientist who managed to make himself immortal using unknown, though seemingly natural, methods. Although this man was executed and dismembered so that he could not reform, his descendants all share his undying ability. Their minds are unable to be killed, though their bodies will fail over time, leading to them being forced to steal the organs of others to cannibalize into their own bodies. Kidoky - Descended from prehistoric lemurs, these advanced Madagascan primates are known to steal animals from man-made traps, and to sometimes attack humans using crude weaponry. If they are directly threatened or overpowered in combat, they will run away, using their long legs to take long leaps. The first report of the creatures was in 1952. Kifri - Embodying blasphemy, atheism and infidelity according to Persian mythology, this Middle-Eastern demonic giant was described as a powerful dark magic user with glowing red eyes and long, tangled hair. Flames and smoke escaped from its nostrils when it was enraged, and it was said to have a supernaturally-loud voice. It eventually committed suicide after a long and blasphemous speech to Heaven by throwing a large boulder up into the air and allowing it to fall down onto its head. Kigatilik - Hunting and killing magic users such as shamans, these monstrous demons are known from the Inuit folklore of North America and Greenland. They are renowned for their long claws and spidery frames, which enable them to slide through incredibly small spaces to reach their targets. Kiji - Usually appearing as beautiful pheasants, which are the national bird of Japan, these unique ghosts usually manifest from the souls of women who have died within a 24-hour period of the creature first appearing. They are also known as Kigisu, and are usually benevolent or curious towards human activity, having only just died and not being accustomed to the Afterlife. Kijimuna - Skilled fishermen, these Japanese forest faeries are said to be irritating magical tricksters, and to sit on the chests of sleeping victims at night to make them unable to breathe. In their true form, they resemble short humanoids with long red hair and pointed ears, though often assume the appearance of human children. Despite their tricky nature, they have sometimes been known to befriend humans in times of dire need. Kijo - Born from the souls of human women who were corrupted due to intense jealousy, hatred or affliction with a curse, these hideous Japanese demons dress in rags and have bedraggled hair covering their horned and fanged faces, and live in secluded areas such as mountains, where they are known to feed on unwary travelers. Although they are not nearly as physically strong as some other demons, they are some of the most adept in magic, and are capable of casting curses and creating illusions. Kikimora - Russian household spirits, these creatures are formed from the souls of children who die before baptism, and are thus considered to be 'unclean'. They inhabit houses that are also unclean, and have a love for pranks and making trouble for the human inhabitants. Their main form is a horrendously ugly humanoid that resembles a duck or a pig. Kikituk - Resembling vaguely salamander-like creatures with long bodies, short legs and flat heads with ivory teeth, these strange North American spirits are known from the Inuit folklore of Canada and Greenland, in which they are said to be present in the bodies of all shamanic magic users. When these shamans needed aid, they would seemingly become pregnant before giving birth to their familiar, and would swallow them again after their task had been completed, to wait for the next hour of need. Killimat-Arr - Famously stealthy and skilled at avoiding detection, these aquatic humanoids are thought to be relatives of the Grey aliens, and are found in the deep waters of the Bermuda Triangle. They have only been observed eight times, having been photographed by a specifically-designed Russian submarine system. Kilmoulis - Ugly variants of brownies, these Scottish faeries have large noses that cover their entire faces and make up for their lack of a mouth, and are generally found in and around mills. They consume food and sustenance using their nostrils, and love to play harmless pranks and make mischief. However, their help around the mills usually makes up for this. Kilopilopitsofy - With a name roughly translating as 'floppy ears', these curious Madagascan mammals are thought to be distantly related to hippopotamuses. There were once two species of hippos in Madagascar during prehistory, and it is thought that these creatures represent surviving individuals of at least one of them. Kilyakai - Dwarfish savages found in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, these diminutive faeries are said to sneak into towns to steal children and livestock when they're not hiding in bushes and shooting poisoned darts at human victims with the intention of giving them malaria. They are sometimes compared to hybrids of demons, nature spirits and neanderthals due to their primitive appearance. The beings are capable of imbuing the children that they capture with dark magic, making more Kilyakai. Kīmat - Causing lightning and severe storms wherever they move, these elemental creatures resemble hounds or wolves, and are thought to be controlled by one of two deities, either Tadaklam or Kadaklan. They are first mentioned in the mythology of the Philippines, and are thought to be extremely similar to the Raijū. Kinap - Gifted with incredible strength during childhood by an unseen deity, these North American demigods are said to either use up their strength and power too early in life and die, or to become heroes to lead Native populations against monsters and demons. When they reach adulthood, they will become mortal once more, though will still remain inhumanely strong. Kindama - Representing the transformed bodies and souls of humans who used their shapeshifting abilities for perverted purposes such as committing crimes or sexual offences, these strange Hindu creatures are named after the first individual of their species. They resemble humanoid stags or deer, and have the ability to inflict a curse on their victims that prevents them from having sexual intercourse without dying soon after. Kinderhook Blob - Witnessed in 1962 after two witnesses were alarmed by a high-pitched whistling sound while playing in the woods in the Kinderhook area of North America's New York, this amorphous entity was seen to peer around a tree to look at the witnesses, who later described it as a white blob. Other encounters with the same being led to it being described either as a floating entity with a sheet draped over it, or a bell-shaped ooze. Kinderhook was a UFO hotspot at the time. King Charles Parrot - Relatives of the wolpertinger, these bizarre avian hybrids are thought to have been the favorite pets of the English King Charles I. They are said to resemble rabbits with the wings and lower bodies of colorful parrots. Their remains have sometimes been mistaken for taxidermy hoaxes because of their similarity to rabbits. King Squirrel - Observed among crowds of regular-sized squirrels in the North American state of Indiana, these large mammals are roughly the size of cats, and appear to have a pheromone-based degree of control over squirrels. They are not hostile towards humans, and behave much like a usual-sized member of their bushy-tailed group. Kingdoodle - Extremely rare nowadays for obvious reasons, these dinosaur-like reptiles are found in the arid forests of North America, and are referred to in some pieces of obscure lumberjack literature. They despise human technological development, and will tear down railroads and attempt to run cars off the road. Because of their bipedal reptilian appearance, they are thought to be related to mountain boomers. Kinnara - Fond of music and singing, these peaceful Asian faeries are found in isolated communities across the Himalayas, and are known to care for and nurture children or travelers who get lost in their habitat. They are feared and persecuted by hunters because of their faery classification, but are completely docile and passive towards humans. Kirata - Savage and warlike people, these strange feline humanoids are found in the forests and lower peaks of the Himalayas, and sometimes in Mongolia as well. They are covered in shaggy fur, and are believed to have a religious culture that worships nature and the dead. These beliefs allow them to practice shamanism and master powerful magic abilities to use in combat. Kirke Nisse - Not even remotely benevolent despite their church habitat, these small Danish faeries, these manipulative gnomes have an extreme greed for money and wealth. Members of their species that wear white clothing are indifferent towards human life, though those in black suits will seek to extinguish it, so that their churches get more money from funeral expenses. Kishi - Literally two-faced, these strange African demons have the heads of humans with the faces of hyenas on the backs of them. They use their human charm to seduce mortal women, and then consume them using their savage concealed jaws, which are so strong that they can never be removed if they clamp down on something. Kitami Abductor - First appearing to a man named Yoshihiro Fujiwara in their namesake Japanese city in April of 1974, these alien ultraterrestrial beings were said to resemble one meter tall bipedal octopus-like creatures with diamond-shaped helmets and grinning faces. They abducted Yoshihiro, capturing him in a beam of light before literally absorbing him through the wall of a glowing orange UFO. Eventually, the witness would gain psychic powers before declaring himself the saviour of Earth. Kitsune - Almost exclusive to Japan, these mischievous shapeshifting foxes are capable of becoming beautiful human females to seduce unsuspecting victims. They enjoy tricking and even possessing humans to make them act out of character and harm others. Despite this seemingly wicked nature, they are well known for honoring promises and friendships that they make with other members of their kind, or even humans. Klabautermann - Found in the Baltic Sea and Germany, these diminutive faeries are said to help the crew of a ship to which they bond, performing tasks such as rescuing men who have fallen overboard. They are never visible to the crew of their ship, and will only choose to become visible if the ship is doomed to sink. In modern tales, there are accounts of them behaving more like gremlins, though these are unlikely to be true. Kłobuk - Born from the souls of deceased infants or stillborn fetuses, these bizarre undead creatures usually resemble slimy birds or sometimes humanoids covered in muck and dirt, and serve as guardians of the houses on which's threshold their remains are buried. They are known to bring wealth to the occupants of their houses by stealing from their neighbours in a similar manner to that employed by the Aitvaras. Burying the corpse of an infant under a house will result in a Kłobuk in seven days. Klu - Embodying natural resources and environments such as trees and forests, these Tibetan spirits are similar to dryads or nymphs, and have a divine significance to the terrain around them. However, like other faeries they can be mischievous and destructive, and are known to cause disease and tempestuous weather when they are displeased. Specific rituals must be performed to prevent this wrath. Kludde - Existing in Belgium, these vicious faeries will shapeshift into the form of a monstrous winged hound to scare travelers that pass them. They feed on unrest and unease among lost travelers, and have been known to cause tensions between their victims to escalate to the point of murder. Knecht Ruprecht - Raised by Saint Nicholas since he was a small child, this strange deity is spoken of in the folklore of Germany, in which he acts as a foil or antithesis to the benevolent Santa Claus. He walks with a limp, and is known to hit children who do not believe in the Judaeo-Christian God with large sacks of ash, and then leave sticks in their stockings instead of sweets. Strangely, the being is often accompanied by various faeries and sometimes even the krampus. Kneph - The true identity of this mysterious ancient Egyptian being has sadly been lost to history, but it is thought to have originally been the literal breath of life, breathing life into other beings to give them form and consciousness. This being, presumably a creator deity, was depicted as a ram (the animal used to represent the soul in Egyptian symbolism) bearing an ankh in its hand. There is also a symbol resembling a winged egg that is known as Kneph, but no connection is known. Knocker - Enigmatic cave-dwelling faeries, these beings are related to goblins and kobolds, and enjoy mimicking the sounds that human miners make using their pickaxes. It is from these noises that they get their name, and it has been observed that the creatures sometimes use sounds of increased volume to warn miners of impending collapses and disasters. They seem to do their own mining at night, though it is unclear what they are looking for. Knocky-Boh - Famously annoying and often confused with poltergeists, these boggart-like faeries are known from British folklore, and are responsible for generating terrifying crashing and knocking sounds from behind the walls of the houses in which they dwell. They rarely do anything else, but these noises are said to be so disruptive that they cause the humans in the households to suffer from insomnia. Knurre Murre - Irritable and short-tempered, these devilish trolls are known from Danish literature, and their name literally translates as 'Rumble Grumble' because of their famously cynical attitudes. They are disliked even among other trolls, but are usually placed in positions of power in troll societies due to their commanding stature. Some individuals of the species have been known to construct themselves large horn-like headgear and helmets, which presumably serve as a status symbol. Kobalos - Malevolent ancient Greek faeries, these creatures enjoy tricking and stealing from humans in their vicinity, and were mentioned in the legend of Heracles. Despite their name, they are not related to the German kobolds, but are in fact closer to goblins in phylogeny. Thieving dark magicians often invoke the creatures to do their bidding. Kobold - Household faeries, these ugly creatures are found in German homes, where they perform domestic tasks and chores, though will play malicious pranks if neglected or annoyed. They can also sometimes be found in mines and caves, where they set up homes and settlements of their own, and can often be heard laughing loudly from above ground. They can shapeshift in order to blend in with human populations, and can also turn into glowing balls of fire to attack potential threats. Kodama - Dwelling inside the ancient trees of Japanese mountainous regions, these minuscule faeries are similar to will-o-the-wisps, and either appear as faint orbs or small humanoids. Their lives are directly linked to the trees that they inhabit, and they will die if the tree is cut down or vice versa. Trees with Kodama inside will bleed when they are cut down, and cutting one of them down is considered a grave sin and will result in a powerful curse being placed on nearby villages. Koddoelo - These predatory apes live in the forests and grasslands of Kenya, and will attack humans on sight using their powerful front legs and viciously large fangs. They move around in small groups, though are hostile to other animals of their own species if they are not part of the same group. It is thought that they may be related to theropithecus oswaldi, which was a giant baboon that lived in the area in prehistoric times. Koerakoonlased - Found in wetlands across Europe, these single-eyed creatures resemble hybrids of humans and large hounds, and are known to occasionally hunt and eat unsuspecting passersby. They hunt in coordinated packs, and it has been suggested by some researchers that they are related to the psoglav. Kogukhpuk - Known from the North American Inuit folklore of Canada and Greenland, these tusked monstrosities resemble bulbous frog-like beasts with enormous tusks, and are said to have once roamed the Earth freely, before relocating to deep underground either by their own volition or at the command of a powerful shaman. If they are exposed to sunlight, they will die instantly, and so are almost never seen on the surface, but can still cause earthquakes and cave-ins with their unending digging. Kōjin - Despite their monstrous appearance, these shark-like Japanese merfolk are gentle and benevolent towards humans, and are well-known for their gift for sewing and weaving. They are very emotional, and are known to cry very frequently, weeping blood that solidifies into jewels instead of tears. Classic Japanese folklore speaks of a man who made an alliance with one of these beings, and it wept over his loss of fortune, before swiftly making him rich once more. Kokkuri-San - Residing in and around Japanese versions of Ouija boards, these terrifying demons are often summoned to answer questions about the players' futures, such as when they will marry or die. However, if the game is not completed correctly, by saying goodbye to the demon and then burning the board, the creatures will cause misfortune or death to the players. Kokopelli - Presiding over the reproduction and birth rate of humans and other animals, this North American trickster is associated with fertility and agriculture, and usually appears as a hunchbacked figure with feathers on its head. It plays a part in marriage rituals performed by Native tribes, and is greatly feared by young girls because of its ability to induce pregnancy. Kol’Ksu - Capable of becoming invisible at will, these aquatic faeries are related to goblins and orcs, and are found in deep seawater all around the world. They are highly unpleasant and malevolent, and are known to kidnap and drown humans that swim too close to them. Komainu - Noble beasts often employed as guardians outside Japanese temples and other holy buildings, these lion-like creatures are usually found in male-female pairings, with the females (the ones with open mouths) watching over the people inside the structures and the males protecting the structures tehmselves. It is thought that they were originally imported from Korea, and have come to represent the yin-yang concept. They are closely related to Shīsā, and the females are known as 'shishi'. Konakadet - Formed from the skin of a slain lake monster, this disturbing undead being is spoken about in the lore of the Haidas of Alaska, in which it is said to have once been a hunter who used the skin of a dead monster to swim and catch food for a village. The creature's soul eventually took over his mind, and forced him to resume life as if he were the monster. Kongamato - Living pterosaurs, these dangerous creatures can be found living along certain rivers in Africa, where they attack small boats in groups. They leave large wounds on their victims, all of whom describe an attack by a leathery winged, beaked creature. Konrul - Akin to Garuda and other supernatural birds such as phoenixes, these Turkish creatures have copper feathers and faces similar to those of dogs, and are large enough to carry off and eat elephants. They usually make their nests in areas with plenty of water, and feed their young using milk from mammalian breasts. Burning feathers taken from the bodies of these creatures will summon an individual of the species. Koolakamba - A purported hybrid of chimpanzees and gorillas, these primates are to be found African regions such as Cameroon, and have larger skulls than regular chimps, but are much smaller and more lithe than gorillas. Their existence has been spoken of since the mid 19th century, and an animal matching the description of this species was bought into a Cameroon zoo in November of 1996 (shown in the picture above). Koppa Tengu - Formed from the souls of humans who were cruel or ignorant in life, these low-powered Japanese beings behave in an impish manner, scuttling around among trees and leaves and wreaking havoc on unsuspecting humans below. It is sometimes said that they can also be spawned if a wolf is cursed by a preexisting tengu. Kōpūwai - Controlling a large pack of two-headed hounds, these wolf-headed ogres are found in the forests of New Zealand, and are usually found in and around large rivers and lakes. They kidnap idle children and lonely fishermen, and will eat them unless the rivers are dammed, and in this case the creatures will have no choice but to release their captives on the destruction of their habitat. Korenpater - Found in the labyrinthine wheat fields of the Netherlands, these vampiric bogeymen prey on children that wander alone into their habitat to pick flowers, and will tear the toes off their victims. Some have recently suggested that they are actually tulpas created when parents made up a demonic alternative to warning their children of human criminals. There are many different names for the same creature, such as Tenensnijder and Bloedzuiper. Kori - Monstrous anteaters, these aquatic creatures are known from Colombian folklore, in which they are said to ferociously dig into the banks of rivers until large sections of ground collapse. The monsters then feed on the humans who fall into the water because of this. According to the mythology, the beasts can also demonstrate the ability to transmute solid ground into water if hunted. Koropokkur - Extremely short and agile, and well-known for seeking shelter beneath large leaves, these Japanese faeries are usually benevolent towards human populations, sending them deer and fish as food. They hate being seen, however, and usually make their deliveries under the cover of night. A folkloric story says that a young boy wanted to see one of these entities, and so snatched one through the window of his house, and upset the beings so much that they are rarely seen today. Korred - Found in French countryside of Brittany, these diminutive faeries are thought to be relatives of trolls, and appear as stocky shaggy-haired humanoids with goat-like legs, long claws and wrinkled skin. They are considered to be expert coiners or smiths, and are known to keep large hoards of treasure in the dolmens around which they dance at night. While dancing, they will sometimes invite humans to join them, and this will result in the deaths of the humans if the faeries are not beaten. Korrigan - Mentioned in the folklore of the French area of Brittany, these dwarfish faeries are normally held to be closely related to dwarves and gnomes, but their name has also been used to describe aquatic spirits much like sirens on some occasions. They are held to be demons or malevolent spirits they were trapped on Earth for an indeterminate amount of time, and they can be identified by their inability to list all seven days of the week due to the holiness of the full week. Koschei - Deathless Russian beings, these undead rulers are often known to kidnap human women and children in their area, and use them to blackmail the local populace. Their very name means 'skeleton' in the local dialect. The only way that one of the despicable creatures can be killed is if their souls are found, which are usually stored in an egg that is well-hidden somewhere away from the body. Kosh - Mentioned in the folklore of the African Bangala people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these wicked creatures are either identified as elementals or demons, and are regarded with great fear in the local culture, presumably responsible for the disappearances of travelers into the forest. It is unknown if they are to be associated with the Christian Devil or if they were present in the area before the Christianisation of Africa. Kosh - Mentioned in the folklore of the African Bangala people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these wicked creatures are either identified as elementals or demons, and are regarded with great fear in the local culture, presumably responsible for the disappearances of travelers into the forest. It is unknown if they are to be associated with the Christian Devil or if they were present in the area before the Christianisation of Africa. Kosodate Yūrei - The ghosts of mothers who either died in childbirth or shortly after, these Japanese spirits are driven back to our world due to strong attachments to their children, but are not violent or horrific-looking unlike most other yūrei, instead appearing as fainter versions of their living selves dressed in burial clothing. Their only purpose is to locate their lost children and protect them from harm, and are often seen attempting to buy gifts or candies for their children. Kotobuki - Bizarre chimeras incorporating the body parts of all twelve animals featured in the Japanese zodiac (such as dragons, mice, roosters, oxen and others), these borderline-ridiculous creatures are thought to bring good luck, and images of them were commonly sold in the Edo period as charms designed to ward away sickness and misfortune. Very little information was given about the origins of the beings, aside from the fact that they apparently originate from India and are able to understand human speech. Kraken - Exceptionally rare nowadays, this enormous cephalopod was described in sailor's tales from Greenland and Norway. Although it is not often seen anymore, there are small populations of these beasts that are known to sink ships in the North Atlantic. Krampus - Austrian beings, these goat-like creatures are known to follow pagan gods of the Winter Solstice, and where these gods may deliver gifts, the creatures dish out punishment. They judge children based on their behavior over the past year, and then either leave them unharmed or kidnap them. They carry whips fashioned crudely out of sticks, and use these instruments to viciously beat the children they collect. Kranokolaptes - These deadly moths are found in Egypt, and are said to use their poisonous stings to attack the heads and necks of sleeping human victims in order to drink their blood. As the creatures beat their wings, they leave behind an ashy substance, which can be used to track them. The only cure for one of their stings is the corpse of a kranokolaptes drowned in oil. Kratos - Closely related to Nike and Zelus, these terrifying angelic deities are said to represent power and conflict in ancient Greek mythology and religion. They played a large part in binding Prometheus to a great rock to be punished for stealing fire, under the orders of Zeus, whom they are sworn to protect. Kravesmart - Also simply known as 'Cowdeath', these bizarre and grotesque undead creatures resemble decayed and rotting cattle, and are depicted as demons in Bulgarian folklore. They seek to mate with healthy cows in order to produce unnatural hybrid offspring, and are also known to spread virulent diseases such as the bubonic plague. Little information is available about them, but they might have been blamed for the births of deformed calves. Krojemanchen - Capable of emerging from (and attacking their victims through) any source of water, these horrific boogeymen are primarily found in the lakes and seas of Luxembourg, but are notoriously tenacious and will continue to stalk their victims until they have dragged them beneath the waves. They are armed with large, spear-like weapons which they can use to impale their victims after suddenly lunging out of water sources such as toilets or bathtubs. Kropemann - Found in the Réiden district of Luxembourg, these European boogeymen are thought to be related to water spirits and other faeries, and are known to manifest in rivers and lakes across the country, protecting their environment from those who seek to disturb it, thus acting as elemental guardian spirits. They are said to use enormous hooks to capture children who stray too close to the water, either drowning them or taking them to their damp and dark lairs. Krsnik - Representing light and righteousness in traditional Slavic customs, these shapeshifters transform into white-furred werewolves to hunt monsters such as vampires and demons. Despite being feared by some due to their shamanistic practices of dark magic, and persecuted by the Catholic Church, they are still viewed as benevolent and kind. Kruthik - Extraterrestrial monstrosities most closely resembling biomechanical insects with metallic armour and four fearsome claws, these highly lethal creatures live in vast subterranean hives where they are trained in breeding and relentless combat from birth, producing massive swarms with the sole intention of waging war on neighbouring races. Not a lot is known about the lives of the Kruthik, but it is suspected that they use the corpses of their defeated rivals for genetic experiments. Kting Voar - Covered in spotted fur and sporting 45cm long, curling horns, this strange bovid is found in the forests and grasslands of Cambodia. It is said to eat snakes, though it is not known if this is an attribute of the real animal, or just of the folklore surrounding it. The horns of the animal were acquired by hunters in 1994, thus proving its existence. Kuarahy Jára - Wearing tall hats and carrying large sacks on their backs, these annoying South American faeries live in rural areas and abandoned buildings, and are known to steal resources such as food and livestock. They protect wildlife and birds from children and unwary hunters that persecute them, by creating extreme feelings of disorientation in these people. Their large feet enable them to travel completely silently. Kubot - Using their long and prehensile hair to entangle and strangle human victims, these horrific predators are relatives of aswangs and are found in the Philippines. They are vampiric and will feed on the blood and life-force of their victims, and some researchers have speculated that they may be related to the Harionago because of their hair-based style of attack. Kuchisake-Onna - The spirit of a woman mutilated and killed, this ghostly figure wanders the streets of Japan wearing a modern facemask. She will approach strangers, and ask them if they think she is beautiful, and then kill them in response to their reply. However, she seems to be placated by offerings of hard candy. Kudlak - The natural enemies of the Krsnik, these vicious Slavic vampires are distinguishable due to their coal-black skin and striking white hair, and are capable of projecting their souls out of their bodies in the forms of monstrous wolves. When they die, if their bodies are not disposed of properly, they will reanimate as hideous undead beings that are an even greater threat to human life. Kugdlughiak - Darting along beneath the ice sheets of Canada and Greenland, these enormous worms are thought to be close relatives of the Lagarfljótsormur, and usually resemble massive centipedes or multi-legged worms. They are mentioned in Inuit culture, and are sometimes mistakenly identified as 'Remorhaz' because of a similar beast in modern popular culture. Very little else is known about them, but if they are like their relatives then they are carnivorous and dangerous. Kukudh - Much too different to the Kukudhi to be classified as the same creature as had been previously suggested, these Armenian vampires are deadly and vicious, having been resurrected from the corpses of misers who are now damned to haunt the houses they once protected so fervently. Apparently they resemble goat-legged humanoids. They can only be defeated if they are strangled with nooses made from vines by a brave boy, who will then become the heir to the fortune of the undead misers. Kukudhi - Representing the forms into which Lugats will mature after either 30 days or 40 years of wandering, these nebulous and poorly defined Armenian vampires are either said to be mostly driven by wanderlust and to resemble normal humans, or to appear as goat-legged humanoids with vicious temperaments. They can only be killed by wolves, but if they survive an attack by one of the canids they will retreat back to their graves, and will not rise again if any of their limbs have been destroyed. Külmking - The destructive ghosts of those who are considered 'unholy' according to Estonian mythology, these violent spirits take on the forms of monstrous creatures covered in ice and snow, and are known to hunt and eat children that irritate faeries or elementals, thus being used as bodyguards by the aforementioned nature beings. Unlike some other spirits, they are not confined to single locations, and can change territory with ease. They have the ability to corrupt peoples' souls. Kulpunya - Originally created by the shamans of an Australian Aboriginal tribe as a revenge project against another tribe that had disrespected them, these dingo-like constructs are created from plant roots, twigs and the teeth of a predator. They are then filled with dark magic and hatred using enchanted songs, and sent to attack those that their makers have vendettas against. These people are often violently killed and torn apart. Kulshedra - Nine headed dragons, these monstrous serpents are found in the mountains and lakes of Albanian regions, and produce poisonous milk and urine. They are capable of causing extreme storms and floods in their local area, and will often demand a human sacrifice to placate them. There are rumors that these creatures represent the evolved form of the bolla. Kulta - Found in the swamps and lakes of Central Australia, these enormous reptiles resemble the prehistoric sauropod dinosaurs, and are described in the Aboriginal mythology as being so large that their body could span the length of an entire forest. They feed on water plants and other vegetation, but are revered by the local populations because their footsteps shake the ground. Kumakatok - Knocking on the doors of the elderly or dying in the Philippines, these eerie hooded angels act as omens of death and collectors of souls. Often traveling in threes, two of them are old males and one is a young female. They can be repelled by painting white crosses on the doors of potential victims, and appear to have become less common after the Second World War, because of the destruction of buildings. Kumbhāṇḍa - Misshapen and diminutive, these demonic Buddhist spirits are so-named because of their rotund shapes that resemble gourds or pumpkins, to which their name roughly translates. They are usually found in and around cemeteries, from which the ghoulish beings scavenge corpses. If they are approached, they have been known to drain the life force and feed on the souls of humans. Kumiho - Nine tailed foxes in their true form, these vicious shapeshifters can temporarily take the form of a human woman to seduce victims. They must consume human hearts in order to survive. It is said that if they eat 1,000 hearts they will become fully human. Kun Peng - Referred to in the folklore of China and Asia, these enormous fish live in warm and deep waters, and are known to jump up from the surface during rainstorms, leading to myths that they cause the storms. They are magical relatives of flying fish, and have massive feathery wings with which they can travel great distances in the air. Because of this ability, they are said to be able to shapeshift into the form of a giant bird. Kunekune - Appearing in Japanese cornfields at roughly midday, these terrifying faeries resemble humanoid sheets that blow and billow around, even if there is no wind. It is said that anyone who looks closely at one of these ghostly beings will be driven mad, and the same will happen if they are touched by the creature as well. There is some speculation that they may be related to the poludnica. Kungusutarissat - Regarded as boogeymen in Inuit culture, these merfolk are found in the freezing waters around Canada and Greenland, and are often offered sacrifices by local fishermen to allow them to secure bountiful catches. Oddly, they seem to have a specific taste for the flesh of foxes or other canids, and so it is these animals that are usually sacrificed. Kuntilanak - This Indonesian ghost resembles a monstrous bird in its true form, and will attack victims under the cover of night. It feeds on the blood of young women or human virgins, and can also shapeshift into a beautiful human form to seduce prey. Kuon Khryseos - Forged from intricately sculpted metal, these ancient Greek canine constructs were created by the queen of the titans to guard the young Zeus. When Zeus reached maturity, he placed the first individual of the species in the stars, where it became the constellation of Canis Major. In modern times, they are found in both gold and silver varieties, and often act as guard dogs for ancient deities and magical beings. Kuperree - Resembling a bright red, monstrous caricature of a natural kangaroo, this enormous Australian monster is said to have killed and chased any living things it came across while bounding across, and to have spread fear among all potential hunters and even other monsters such as the Bunyip. This reign of terror continued until two Aboriginal men, Pilla and Inta, decided to fight back, and were able to kill the monster before using magic to resurrect those that it had eaten. Kupua - Seemingly lacking a true form, these constantly-changing shapeshifters are known as demigods in Hawaiian mythology, and are usually cruel and vindictive tricksters prepared to capture and eat anyone that they see. However, some of them appear to be kinder, and tend to watch over their human families in an animal form. There are multiple different classifications of the beings, depending on their behavior and the forms that they most commonly assume. Kura Yarō - Born from the horse saddles of mighty Japanese warriors slain in battle, these tsukumogami behave as if they were warriors akin to their late owners, and exact vengeance on the behalf of their fallen users. They are usually born when a soldier is killed due to circumstances not of their control, or when they are betrayed by allies. Kurage-no-Hinotama - Similar to the European Will-O-The-Wisp and the spook lights, these Japanese jellyfish have glowing orange bodies that look like balls of fire when they float through the air. They are usually known to hover in moist air conditions, such as near the sea, and will squirt venom at those that they deem as threats. Kurangaituku - Inhabiting the deep forests of New Zealand, these winged monsters resemble vaguely feminine ogres with giant wings and the vicious beaks of predatory birds, and have been known to capture birds and keep them as companions or pets. Māori legend tells of a story in which a folklore hero was captured by one of the creatures and forced into slavery, but eventually managed to escape through the use of magic spells, and tricked the beast into falling into a pool of boiling water. Kuriotes - Kingly rulers, these angels are tasked with ruling over and controlling all angels below them in the hierarchy, and are in charge of regulating the duties and behavior of the lower angelic classes. They very rarely make themselves visible to humans, though when they do they display large balls of blazing light atop their heads instead of the classical halo. Kurita - Terrible multi-legged creatures, these monsters live in the forests and the seas of the Philippines, and viciously kill and consume anything that they find. They resemble hairy spider-like creatures with enormous fangs, and are said to be attracted to a tree called the rattan palm. Kuro Bōzu - Looking somewhat like Buddhist monks dressed in long dark robes, these stinking shadowy creatures haunt Japanese areas in which large populations of people live, and will sneak into households overnight and literally steal the breath from the mouths of female victims. They have the ability to grow into towering monsters, and have long tongues that they use to lick the mouths and ears of their victims during attacks. Kurreah - Vaguely resembling crocodiles due to their elongated jaws, these enormous Australian dragons inhabit deep lakes and underground springs, using their prehensile tails to drag hapless human victims beneath the water. Their feet are broadly webbed and they have ornate frills around their necks, and their scales are of different colours depending on the individual, including bright green and orange. Kurupi - Regarded as minor representatives of fertility, these diminutive and ugly South American faeries are well known for their elongated penises, which can wrap several times around their bodies. These dexterous and prehensile genitals move through holes in doors and windows, and impregnate sleeping women. Kurupi are also known to steal young women and drag them back to their jungle dens. Kusarikku - Spawned by Tiamat to combat the newly-emerging deities, these minotaur-like creatures have since become less warlike and have taken to guarding Middle-Eastern dwelling places used by their creator goddess. They resemble upright humanoids with the faces of bison or buffalo, and are famously powerful warriors. However, they have been known to enter a trance-like state when exposed to music. Kushtaka - Featured in Alaskan folklore, these monstrous shapeshifting creatures resemble a hybrid of a human and an otter in their true form. They are capable of mimicking sounds made by distressed humans, such as crying babies, and use this ability to lure sailors or travelers to their deaths. Despite this, there are also some stories of the creatures saving those who might otherwise have drowned. Kutze-Ce-Te-Ut - Most closely resembling enormous woodworms, from which it is assumed that these bewitched monsters originally were created, these North American beings are usually passive towards humans. They have been known to be kept as pets by lonely humans, but are often killed by nervous villagers because of their monstrous and distressing appearance. Kwamang-A - Shapeless rainbow elemental dragons, these African creatures are said to have created a large portion of the terrain by dropping pieces of their armor. It is not known if this is true or not, and the creatures are amazingly rare nowadays. Their bright colors can blind potential aggressors. Kwaniwibid - With a name literally translating as 'long tooth', these enormous wolves are thought to be the result of faeries tampering with the genetics of local wolf or dog populations. They are strong and powerful predators, and are sometimes known as 'sabre wolves' in Alaska and North America because of their pronounced fangs. Kye-Ryong - Far larger than other cockatrice variants, these Korean dragons resemble wyverns with the heads and feathers of chickens, and are sometimes depicted pulling the chariots of important characters or legendary heroes in local artwork. They are also known as gye-lyong, and are thought to be far less deadly than other cockatrices because of a tale involving a princess being born from one of their eggs, and then later going on to found the historic Kingdom of Silla. Kyklopes - Representing a much rarer and more primitive form of the well-known cyclops, these creatures are thought to have been imprisoned in cave systems by an ancient Greek deity. They have no true eyes, but instead have floating orbs above their heads with which they can see. They are most famous for their blacksmith skills, and are said to have forged the lightning bolts of the god Zeus. Kyo - Easily mistaken for giant amphibians, these Korean dragons are described as having frog-like features with long bodies covered in scales, and four limbs adorned with powerful claws. They dwell in the mountains, and are known to sway in a hypnotic manner in order to hypnotize small animals such as deer and rodents, before constricting them and swallowing them whole. Like amphibians, they lay their eggs in ponds and the young will remain in these water sources until they are fully grown. Kyōkotsu - Obsessed with vengeance, these Japanese ghosts are created when human bones are improperly buried by being discarded down a well. The bones will then reanimate as a wrathful ghost, which will terrify and curse anyone who comes to use the well. They are wrapped in ragged shrouds, and have a bleached skull and bedraggled hair where a human would have a face. Kyöpeli - Haunting high mountain areas across Finland, these screeching ghosts represent the mournful souls of human virgins who die young. They congregate in large groups in mountainous terrain, and the dark energy that they generate is often used by witches or other magic users. Kyōrinrin - Formed from ancient scrolls or books that have been left unread by their owners, these Japanese tsukumogami act as spirits of knowledge, and sometimes gather together in large numbers to form dragon-like bodies for themselves. These bodies have tendril-like arms formed from long scrolls, and beaks made of ripped pages, with which they assault their prior owners who let knowledge go to waste. Kyut - Malevolent shapeshifting faeries, these creatures resemble humanoid armadillos and are found in Burmese forest areas. They feed on the flesh and mental energies of their victims, and will often assume human form in order to trick unassuming innocents into their woodland habitat. La Carretanagua - Detailed in the folklore of the Central American country known as Nicaragua, this ghostly phenomenon manifests as a rickety cart covered in white sheets, pulled by two preternatural oxen and driven by Death itself. Strangely, it does not turn round corners on the streets, but will rather teleport directly onto the next street without going around the bend. It is thought to be an omen of death, seeing as someone in the immediate vicinity will always die a day after its passing. La Cocollona - On the left bank of the Spanish River Onyar in Catalonia there was a convent with nuns lacking in religious devotion and resistance to sin, but there was one nun who used to reproach her fellows for their transgressions, and eventually annoyed the others so much that they locked her in a cellar. In the humid prison, she transformed into a crocodile, but her spiritual purity meant that she also grew butterfly-like wings. Now her ghost appears in the river on full moon nights. La Diablesse - Using its seductive appearance to mesmerise male victims before leading them deep into forests where they will get lost and eventually walk into deadly circumstances, this demonic Caribbean monstrosity was once a human woman who was transformed into a hybrid humanoid by deals she made with the Devil. It appears at parties wearing a long dress to hide the fact that one of its legs is that of a cow, but is instantly disliked by the women at the party nonethless. One must turn their clothes inside out to survive an attack. La Gárgola - First appearing in 2012 but reappearing in August of 2018 in the Puerto Rican locale of Barceloneta, these winged humanoids are compared to gargoyles, as can be garnered from their name, and are thought to feed on livestock, draining their blood and mutilating their bodies in a similar manner to the Chupacabra. They are described as tall, black humanoids with red eyes and a strong stench of sulphur about them. Researchers have advised to wear black or red to minimise attack risk. La Lechuza - Shapeshifting witches mentioned in Mexican and Texan folklore, these nocturnal creatures are known to become owl-like beings to silently pursue their prey. They are capable of mimicking the cries of human babies in order to lure unsuspecting victims, but can be repelled using salt. There are some unsubstantiated stories that these beings represent the spirits of executed witches. La Llorona - Also known as the weeping woman, this particular class of ghost is known from the folklore of Hispanic America, and are formed from women who go insane and drown their own children. They are often seen in the area in which they committed the crime, crying desperately and searching for the lost spirits of their children. If they encounter any child who vaguely resemble their own, they will make a cryptic request for 'forgiveness' before drowning the child to take the place of their own. La Malacosa - Alleged to have been visiting North American tribes living near the Ozarks since at least the early 1500s, this ultraterrestrial being is said to use a glowing wand to paralyse victims and cause their hair to stand on end before performing surgical operations, such as cutting open their stomachs or partially amputating limbs. The alien was also said to visit local feasts, but never took part in any of the festivities, and would simply say that it came from below if asked. La Mocuana - Found in the caves and on the roadsides of Central America's Nicaragua, this ghostly entity is thought to be related to La Llorona and phantom hitchhikers because of its similar behaviour. Back when the Spanish were attempting to take over the Americas, a young American girl fell in love with on the sons of the Spanish conquerors, who then used her to gain riches before trapping her in a cave and abandoning her. Since then, she has become a witch and now lures people into her cave. La Mula Herrada - In Colonial times, a beautiful Honduran girl lived in a small and simple house, and many men were in love with her, but she was eventually married by a Spanish aristocrat who gave her an enormous house and all the riches she could want, leading to her becoming vain and selfish. She forbade her parents from seeing her, and this ultimately led to her elderly mother being killed due to the girl's negligence. Dying of a broken heart, the girl rose again as a demonic mule. La Novia del Mal - Only manifesting on full moon nights, this terrifying Mexican ghost is thought to have been born from the wrathful soul of a young woman who found out that her fiancée was having an affair with her sister on her wedding day, and went completely insane upon hearing this news, murdering both the husband-to-be and the sister with an axe. The police arrived in time to see her laughing while covered in blood, before she took her own life. Now she haunts the graves of her victims. La Sayona - Attacking and killing men that have been judged to be unfaithful, these terrifying ghosts are known from the folklore of Venezuela, and are thought to have originated from the wrathful spirit of a woman whose husband had been cheating on her with her own mother. She went insane and killed her mother and husband with a machete, and her mother cursed her to forever atone for her crime by taking guarding women who were victims of adultery. They seduce men before killing them. La Sucia - Clad in a filthy wedding dress, this appalling Honduran spectre is thought to represent the ghost of a young woman who was going to marry the love of her life but could not due to having not been baptized, eventually being driven mad by her lost love and the news that her beloved was marrying someone else. She became obsessed with her wedding dress, wearing it everywhere before jumping from a cliff and dying. Now, she takes on a beautiful form to lure drunkards to her, before driving them mad by showing them her hideous face. La Taconuda - Confirmed to be present in both Nicaragua and Mexico, this Central American spirit appears as an unnaturally tall human woman wearing a long dress of either red or white colouration, a golden hairband and high-heeled shoes. It is said to be the ghost of a 27-year-old woman who died under mysterious circumstances, and is said to haunt foremen working in fields, driving them mad and leaving them nude and numb by the bends of roads, or to manifest in the alley where it died. La Vibria - Named after the local Catalan name for a viper or poisonous serpent, these small Spanish dragons are thought to have been associated with blacksmiths and metallurgy since the fourteenth century. They have beaked snouts and fiery tongues, as well as structures on their chests that resemble the breasts of human women. In local mythology, they are regarded as the wives of dragons, and are possibly even associated with the monster slain by Saint George. Labatut - Appearing on windy streets across Brazilian communities at night, these savage monsters resemble hairy humanoids with single eyes and long tusks, and some researchers have suggested that they are related to the mapinguari as a result. They behave like bogeymen, chasing down and eating children, and are thought to have originally been manifested due to the cruelty of a French general with whom they share their name. Lacerta - Named after the first confirmed individual of their species, these reptilian humanoids live in subterranean cities across Earth, and are known to be terrestrial in origin. They have large eyes that can see in infrared, and small sails on their backs in order to regulate their temperature. Strangely, they have evolved human-like traits such as long hair and mammary glands, for reasons that are still being investigated. Ladon - Similar to a giant python or snake, these dragons are mentioned in the mythology of the ancient Greeks, in which a member of their species is slain as one of the labours of Heracles. They were said to be guarding a magical treasure of golden apples, which could supposedly grant those who ate them immortality. In modern times, however, the creatures have become confused with the hydra. Lady in White - Detailed in local urban legends surrounding the North American Hollywood Sign, this white-clad ghost has been seen consistently for 80 years, and is always described as a woman in a 1930s-style dress with blonde hair and seemingly always accompanied by the smell of gardenias. She is said to be the tortured spirit of an actress called Peg Entwistle, who committed suicide in 1932 by jumping from the 'H' of the sign after recieving abusively bad reviews for a film. Laelaps - Originally created as a gift from the ancient Greek pantheon to earthly hunters, these tenacious hounds have the ability to always catch their intended prey notwithstanding any potential obstacles. They are able to move through solid objects and teleport, and it is said that the first individual of the species was made into the constellation of Canis Major by Zeus. Laestrygonian - Appearing as giants or ogres, these monstrous Greek humanoids are spoken of in the mythological journey of Odysseus, in which they are said to live on several small islands off the coast of Greece. They are savage predators of humans, and are known to drink the blood of those that they capture. If threatened, the creatures will throw rocks and other heavy objects. Lagahoo - Appearing as normal humans during the day, these Caribbean shapeshifters will take on ever-changing forms at night, but usually resemble some variation of a headless humanoid carrying a coffin and covered in chains. They have the ability to alter their size at will, going from tiny to gigantic in an instant. The only way to kill one of the vampiric monsters is by beating it to death with a stick that has been repeatedly blessed using holy oil and water for nine days. Lagarfljót Worm - This Icelandic lake monster was first recorded in the year 1345, and have continued to this day, with the beast even being captured on film in 2012. It is said to be poisonous and have a desire to hoard gold and riches. Lagarfljótsormur - Roughly 40ft long, these monstrous invertebrates are found in the waterways and lakes of Iceland, and are said to have originated from a smaller worm that was exposed to a cursed supply of gold. They are highly poisonous and can spit vast amounts of venom at human intruders, and have been reported since 1345, with the most recent sighting being a video captured in 2012. Laidly Worm - Created as a result of a curse placed on a princess by a witch jealous of her beauty, this monstrous dragon was once the daughter of an English king living in Northumberland's Bamburgh Castle, who married the witch after the death of his first wife. His eldest son moved away as a result of the marriage, becoming a knight and returning when he heard that his sister had been turned into a dragon. Instead of fighting the dragon, he kissed it and turned his sister back into a human. Lailoken - Mentioned in Scottish folklore as magical wild-men with the power of human speech, these British hairy humanoids appear to have the gift of prophecy, and were known to foretell many dreadful battles in ancient times. Some legends of dubious source suggest that they should be considered faeries or elementals, because they are known to blame themselves if people die in the battles they predict. Lakambakod - Filipino faeries, these yellow-skinned humanoids protect crops and homes from bad weather conditions and attack. They are thought to be related to the British brownies in this respect, though seem to be less volatile than these creatures, though also less easily domesticated. As well as protecting households, they are also able to cure any disease with a simple touch. Lake Tarpon Monster - These feathered creatures are remnants from prehistoric times, as apparent in their resemblance to the ancient Therizinosaurus. They are covered in thick and waterproof feathers, which accommodate their aquatic lifestyle (wherein they are often mistaken for upturned boats in the lake). Lake Worth Monster - Covered in both white fur and scales, these aquatic relatives of the North American goatman were first seen on the shores of a Texas lake during 1969. They were apparently highly aggressive towards human witnesses, and would drag tents into the water whilst the sleeping campers were still inside. Local police investigated these occurrences, which eventually led to a famous incident in which one of the creatures threw a large tyre at the police cars. Lākhey - Covered in black hair with red manes, these Asian demons were once famous for their raids on human villages and their desire to eat human flesh, however they have since become benevolent. This is thought to have occurred as a result of one of their leaders falling in love with a beautiful human woman. Nowadays, the creatures come from the forest every year to cleanse villages of evil spirits. Lakúma - Stalking the fishing boats of Chile, these monstrous rays are so large that their backs have sometimes been mistaken for small islands. They are known to attack boats, especially those ridden by people who have broken important taboos, and pull out the occupants and tear them to pieces using their teeth and barbed tails. Despite their vicious disposition, they can be tamed by powerful magic users or shamans, and then can be used as entourages. Lamashtu - Menacing pregnant women and murdering newborn babies, this savage demonic deity is mentioned in the Mesopotamian mythology of the Middle East, and has the ability to control succubi and lamias in its vicinity. It resembles a hairy creature with large wings and the head of a donkey or wolf, and ferocious teeth and claws like a predatory mammal. Its evil powers are not limited to causing disasters in childbirth, as it can also cause disease and nightmares in a household. Lamassu - Regarded as protective deities in the folklore of the Middle Eastern Assyrian culture, these sphinx-like hybrid creatures have the wings of birds, the heads of bearded humans and the bodies of lions or bulls, and were said to function as household protector spirits, often depicted in statues or carved tablets at thresholds to act as sentinels. They are sometimes said to be associated with constellations and the zodiac, thus protecting everything that the stars encompass. The female equivalent is called apsasû. Lambton Worm - This variety of dragon was introduced into Britain as an invasive species, first propagating itself along the bands of the River Wear. Its existence here is responsible for the creation of a local myth, revolving around a knight who killed one of the monsters using a suit of armor covered in spikes. Lamia - These shapeshifting Greek monsters are thought to have once been humans who were transformed into beasts by vengeful deities. They are incredibly envious of humans, and will use their shape-changing abilities to enter human households and eat young babies. Although this is horrific, the creatures can be killed by covering them with salt and rosemary and then burning them. Lamiai - Sometimes said to be synonymous with the Empusa, these Greek seductresses are thought to be close relatives of Lamias and Succubi, and are known to seduce young male humans and have sexual intercourse with them before killing them and promptly feeding on their flesh. They are sometimes capable of producing convincing illusions, and often use this ability to create the impression that they live in luxurious mansions, but these will disappear if their monstrous identity is exposed. Lampad - Bearing torches and supernatural abilities, these dark nymphs are said to follow the ancient Greek deity known as Hecate as she moves through the Underworld. The lights that their torches emit have the ability to drive human onlookers to insanity and suicide. It is for this reason that the creatures' help is often sought out by dark magic users. Lampago - Found in forests in warm European countries, this variant of the manticore lacks the scorpion tail or the venomous capabilities of its counterpart. However, this does not make it any less deadly, because it has the ability to hypnotize prey with its voice, which mimics the playing of a flute. Lampalagua - Resembling a serpent with the torso of a large feline, this Chilean monster is said to consume anything that enters its path, such as livestock or human children. Although it does not have venomous fangs, it does have a clawed tongue with which it can inject a deadly toxin. It is said to drink up entire lakes and then slither across their dry beds. Landvættir - Mentioned in the mythology of Iceland and other Germanic or Norse countries, these shapeshifting nature elementals usually inhabit rocks or trees, and are responsible for maintaining the fertility and growth of the flora and fauna around them. They are thought to be related to faeries due to their similar behaviour, and are found in numerous areas of natural beauty. Before Christian settlers arrived in their habitat, the local people used to worship them and offer sacrifices. Lange Man - Dwelling in basements and other dark areas in secluded Dutch or European houses, these freakish bogeymen tower over all those around them, and are frequently seen to knock on the windows of children to foretell illness. Despite their Slenderman-like appearance, they are not nearly as malevolent as the aforementioned being, and are sometimes said to follow nocturnal travelers in order to protect them. They are capable of adjusting their size at will, and are able to hover. Lange Wapper - Usually benevolent, these Belgian faeries appear as giant humanoids with vaguely fish-like features in their true forms, but are well known for shapeshifting into just about anything else for use in cruel tricks and mischief. They target those who are keeping a secret or are unfaithful to their family members, and teach them a painful lesson using mental manipulation and fright. Lángrén - Wielding incredible skills in all martial arts and traditional weapons, these Chinese creatures are regional variants of the Western wolfman. They are thought to be originally descended from a legendary Kung-Fu master who was born in the late 19th century. Despite mostly being calm creatures, they must consume at least one human heart every century in order to survive. Langtüttin - Hideous demonic boogeymen, these German creatures resemble human women with long breasts from a distance, and use this appearance to lure children and infants towards them. One of the breasts produces milk and the other produces tar and blood, which they use to kill the children and then consume their corpses. Strangely, statues of the creatures are found in churches. Lank - These massive creatures inhabit thick grasslands such as those commonly found in the Americas, and are thought to be another classification of faeries. They move with an enormously wide gait, and seem to be increasingly curious with human life, which has resulted with them causing panic and fear because of their frightening appearance. Lantern Man - Believed to be evil ghosts that attempt to lure living victims to their deaths in swampy reed beds, these frightening phantoms resemble will-o-the-wisps, and dwell around swamps and lakes. They seem to be attracted to the sound of whistling, but can be evaded by lying on your face in the mud in the event of an attack, or getting indoors and leaving a decoy made of an animal horn. Laohu - Foxes that have grown old enough to gain shapeshifting abilities, these Chinese creatures disguise themselves as members of humanoid society, and are well known for their wit and intelligence. Very little else is known about them, seeing as they rarely reveal themselves and usually prefer to simply live alongside other sapient beings. They are thought to be related to Kumiho or Kitsune. Larēs - Acting as household guardians akin to brownies or other faeries, these ancient Roman spirits are usually housed in shrines in specially-constructed rooms or locations throughout a traditional house. Each traditional household would have contained at least one figurine representing a favored Larēs, and this would be an object of worship, to which sacrifices and other offerings were given. Different Larēs rule over different domains, some protecting roads, and some protecting families. Lariosauro - Closely resembling a prehistoric nothosaur due to its chimeric mix of otter and crocodile body-parts, this reptilian monster was first witnessed in Italy's Lake Como in 1946, and has since been seen sporadically up until at least 2003. It is named after a fossilised aquatic reptile that was found in the same area a century before the sighting, leading some researchers to conflate the extinct creature with the modern being. Skeptical scientists have posited that it may be a sturgeon. Lasas - Accompanying the Etruscan goddess known as Turan, these angel-like nymphs are found in modern-day Italy and Tuscany, and are usually seen as young girls covered in ornate clothing and rare jewels. They are often associated with love and beauty, and are sometimes seen to take the forms of swans or doves. As their name suggests, they are believed to be closely related to the Larēs. Latawiec - Spawning inside thunderstorms, these Slavic creatures move with the storms that generate them, and are thus always at risk of being struck by lightning. To avoid this, the flying humanoids will sometimes swoop down to Earth to dwell in peoples' homes during storms, but the lightning tends to follow the creatures to the houses, which will then inevitably catch fire and burn down. These fires are not extinguished because they are believed to be ordained. Latush - Appearing as a black-hooded monk with long hair and a crow perched atop its head, this Middle-Eastern Djinn is found in secluded islands surrounded by untamed waters, and is sometimes seen to carry a beautiful golden staff. When it attacks its victims, it causes painful strangulation and suffocation, leading to a slow death. It is considered to be one of the Seventy-Two Infernal Djinn, directly related to Iblīs. Lau - Adapted to mimic the bioelectrical capabilities of catfish, these strange African reptiles feed on the flesh of large animals or human victims that they ensnare using the long tendrils that curl upwards from their faces. They are sometimes seen on land for short periods, and wooden effigies carved into their image are often used in local religious ceremonies. Laumė - Dwelling close to riverbanks and lakes in Slavic countries such as Lithuania, these one-eyed nymphs are usually seen wearing fine clothing, and are able to weave light and energy together to produce rainbow-like structures. However, they will become hostile if they come into contact with male humans, and will tickle or pinch them to death before eating their bodies. Laundry Room Shrimp - Resembling enormous orange shrimps with spindly legs and flexible antennae, these bizarre North American arthropods were first recorded after a single witness phoned a paranormal agency in 1948 to report a giant shrimp in the laundry room. She had apparently witnessed one the creatures in her basement, which was connected to other houses through a network of tunnels, which would eventually go out to sea. They do not appear to be aggressive, but may approach human witnesses. Laura - Alternatively known as 'Laure', these ugly hags are known from Albanian mythology, and have the ability to shapeshift into the forms of numerous amphibious animals such as crocodiles and frogs. They are said to make horrific screaming and wailing sounds near roadsides and secluded bodies of water, but will vanish when they are approached. Dogs will pursue Lauras, and the hags seem to be frightened of the animals. Lausks - Living in Latvian woods, this Winter spirit wears a coat of animal fur and carries a large silver axe. It uses this weapon to check the structural integrity of buildings in its habitat, and will also pinch the noses and cheeks of people inside these houses as they sleep. Through this action, it is thought to cause numbness. Lavellan - Enormously poisonous, these enormous water shrews are found in deep lakes and pools across Scotland, and is said to be venomous enough to poison cattle from several meters away. If the skin of one of these beasts is preserved and then dipped in water, the water will become capable of curing sick animals and humans. Layqa - Rare Peruvian dark magic users, these creatures have hideous faces that resemble tribal masks, and use bewitched food to enchant unsuspecting travelers. They cast spells to create discord and strife within families and relationships, and are thus often used to encourage children to stick with food that they know within their cultures. Le Croque-Mitaine - Related to other hideous boogeymen found all throughout world cultures, these French creatures resemble grotesquely contorted or deformed humanoids with oversized teeth, and are known to use these to bite off the hands of human victims. Little is known about them and how they differ from other boogeymen, but they are often invoked by parents wishing to discourage their children from sucking their thumbs because of the monsters' unique diets. Le Loyon - Resembling a humanoid figure wearing a gas mask and a dark cloak, this strange creature has been reported to lurk along the roads of the Swiss town of Maules. It does not appear to be hostile, and was even reportedly seen holding picked flowers, though is avoided by hunters due to its threatening appearance. Leanan Sídhe - Sometimes compared to the ancient Greek muses, these faeries are known from the folklore of Scotland and the Isle of Man, where they are said to inspire great creativity in artists. However, this gift comes at a price, as the artist will eventually go insane and die prematurely due to the creature feeding off their soul. Lebraude - Extremely toxic amphibians known from the folklore of various locales all over France, these large creatures resemble salamanders or toads with black and yellow skin, and are also known as Enfleboeuf or Soufflet, depending on the region. They only breathe once per day, but this noxious exhalation is capable of instantly killing anything that it comes into contact with. Their inhalations are also deadly, as they can suck objects much larger than themselves into their mouths. Legion - Originally encountered during a routine exorcism in Biblical times, these strange beings are born when multiple demons possess a single human body at the same time. Despite their greatly multiplied abilities, they appear to be cowardly, and will often beg not be sent back to Hell if threatened with exorcism. Leimonid - Closely related to Naiads, these ancient Greek nymphs rule over meadow and marsh areas that are renowned for their flowers and natural beauty. They are most commonly seen around Spring, when they are often recorded as accompanying the deity known as Persephone. Some researchers have suggested that Persephone's attendants may actually be Oceanids. Lempo - Referred to as evil deities in the mythology of the densely forested areas across Finland, these moose-like creatures have a powerful degree of control over demons and evil spirits in their area. Although they are associated with cruelty and even Satan himself, they are also sometimes said to confusingly represent love. Lemure - Bloated and hideous ghosts, these Roman phantasms spawn from the souls of those who are not given proper burial or not grieved for after death, and are said to return to our world to wreak vengeance. They are violent and restless, though can be frightened by loud noises and hurt using bronze weaponry. Some have speculated that they may represent fallen gods. Lemurian - Originally dwelling on an ancient lost continent said to have connected Madagascar and India, these mysterious humanoids are said to be telepathic and highly intelligent, despite being unable to reason and behaving entirely in accordance to instincts. Theories regarding their geographical distribution are contradictory, but it has been speculated that they somehow reached the Americas and India before their home continent sank into the sea. Lenapizha - Most closely resembling hybrids of enormous cats and dragons, these aquatic North American predators are thought to be closely related to Mishipeshu, and are known to cause fishermen and sailors to drown. They usually have pale-colored fur and rows of sharp scales running down their backs, and their name literally translates as 'true lynx' because of their resemblance of the land-dwelling animal. Leokampos - Featured in the artworks of ancient Greek and Roman cultures, these aquatic monsters are thought to be distantly related to merfolk, and have evolved to resemble terrestrial lions. They are predatory and extremely dangerous, and are known to snatch unsuspecting human victims from piers and docks. Leongalli - Described in Mongolian folklore as having the head and forequarters of lions but the bodies of enormous snakes, these hybrid dragons are thought to be related to the tatzelwurm because of their similar appearances and behaviour. Very little is known about them because of the inhospitality of their environment, but they could be speculated to be savage and venomous predators by scaling up the evolutionary niche occupied by the tatzelwurm. Leontophone - Appearing as a serpentine weasel, these African creatures are the natural enemy of lions, and their flesh and bodily fluids are completely toxic to the big cats. Lions instinctively avoid the creatures, and will tear them up with their claws if there is no option to flee, because biting the beast would spell instant death. Because of this ability, the flesh of the leontophone is often burnt into ash and sprinkled onto the meat left in lion traps. Lepeux - Resembling small goblins with the heads of wolves or dogs, these French creatures dwell in trees around swamps, and constantly emit hideous laughing sounds. They enjoy regaling travelers with colourful prophecies and secrets, but are also known to enchant those that come too close using their voices. Once enchanted, these victims will be led to a pond in which they will see their futures reflected, before they are pushed in and drowned by the laughing goblin. Leprechaun - Despite their non-threatening appearance and reputation, these duplicitous Irish faeries are not to be trifled with. They can shapeshift into a full-sized human form, and will often try to trick people into making bartering away their freedom and livelihood in exchange for three wishes. However, they are appreciated as skilled craftsmen, and seem to have a compulsion to collect gold. Leprocaun - Small, goblin-like and nimble, these North American faeries are thought to have evolved from a population of true leprechauns brought into the country with Irish settlers, and have since evolved to become savage and predatory. They enjoy attacking travelers and stealing goods from cars and vehicles, leaping great distances to get away and using their ferocious teeth and claws to defend themselves. Lepugnomus - Gnome-like creatures, a specimen of this rare species of faery was discovered in 1989, when it was caught alive in Spain by a group of hikers. The creature died within 24 hours, and its preserved body can still be seen in a local museum. Hunters and biologists unlike have been unable to identify it as a non-paranormal animal. Leraje - Clad in green hooded garments, these strange demons resemble elves or faeries, and often carry bows with which they can inflict gangrene on their victims. They enjoy striking up conflicts in human populations, and are known for their terrifyingly accurate marksmanship. Any humans who are struck with their arrows will immediately start to decay and putrefy all over their body. Lernaean Hydra - These multi-headed creatures are known from Greece and Europe, and wield ferociously venomous fangs on each of their heads. This toxin is so virulent that even the scent of the beast is deadly to small animals. However, the creature is most known for its ability to grow back two more heads if one is cut off, and this function can only be prevented if the neck is burned. Les Llavanderes - Closely related to Banshees, these Spanish faeries resemble elderly women with long white hair, and are most commonly observed to wash their clothes in rivers and beat them with shovels while making hideous screeching noises, but are also known to capture and drown any people that they see. However, they also flood rivers in order to put out fires in Asturian villages, and are sometimes said to save children or elderly people from the flames before vanishing into water foam. Leshy - These powerful Slavic forest spirits feed on worship from humans, and are known for shapeshifting into the idols of their victims just before consuming them. They are considered to be evil in local folklore because of their habit of abducting local children who stray into the forest. If threatened, the creatures have the ability to control the trees and animals of the forest, as well as the use of various magical spells. Letayuschiy Chelovek - Resembling hairy humanoids with the wings of bats and flattened faces, these Russian monsters are found in mountainous areas, and are thought to protect some kind of forbidden treasure. Their hair is bluish in color, and they are sometimes seen to have a tentacle-like organ with which they can manipulate their environment. Most sightings of the creatures took place in the 1940s. Letiche - Spoken of in the Cajun folklore of North America and Louisiana, these aggressive aquatic primates are found in swamps and bayous, and were regarded as the wrathful ghosts of unbaptised infants in legends. They spend most of their days submerged and feeding on mid-sized animals, though will attack and sink boats that venture into their territory. Because of their vaguely reptilian appearance, they are sometimes mistaken for lizardmen or reptilian aliens. Leucrotta - These vicious mesonychid predators are to be found in the warm forests of Africa, and resemble a wolf or lion with the hooves and spots of a deer. They are capable of moving incredibly quickly, and have a row of sharpened bone in their gums rather than teeth, which makes them look as if they are constantly smiling. There are stories of the creatures mimicking human voices, though these are unconfirmed. Leviathan - Some of the most powerful monsters in existence, these hideous beasts resemble giant serpents in their true form, and live deep beneath the ocean. However, they were recently disturbed and showed the shocking ability to shapeshift and possess human vessels. They can only be killed using the bone of a religious human washed in the blood of a ruler of Hell, a disgraced angel and an alpha monster. Leyak - Cannibalistic Indonesian monsters, these undead witches will detach their heads and entrails from their bodies at night to feed on the blood of pregnant women and their unborn children using their long tongues. They can often be found lurking in graveyards, where they will consume corpses if other food is scarce. Lham-Dearg - Phantom beings, these apparitions will wander the highlands of Scotland and challenge passers-by to combat by shaking their dripping red fists. Those who refuse this battle will be spared, though those who accept the challenge will befall a different fate. If they lose, they will be slaughtered without mercy, and if they win they will die within 14 days. Libahunt - Depicted in traditional tragic plays from their home European country of Estonia, these werewolves are usually the daughters of innocents that are accused of being witches and executed. Ironically, their heritage leads to them being ostracized and exiled from local communities, but they will only transform if they are treated badly by other people, thus making their condition a self-fulfilling prophecy. Lich - When a sorcerer uses dark magic or soul manipulation to triumph over death, they will transform into one of these monstrous beings. Although their bodies decay, their minds and abilities are heightened massively, and they gain the ability to control the undead around them. They are powerful shapeshifters, and can use psychic powers to manipulate opponents. Lidérc - Similar to incubi and succubi, these Hungarian beings are born from a black chicken's egg that was incubated under a human's arm. They will morph into a humanoid form and have sexual relations with their human master, though will gradually drink their blood and make them sick. The only way to get rid of one of these creatures is by persuading it to perform an impossible task such as moving sand with a rope. Lietuvēns - Thought to be the demonic manifestations of the ghosts of those who were either drowned, strangled or hanged, these Latvian creatures will attack both the people and the domestic animals of a household. Sleep paralysis is sometimes held to be a form of attack from these monsters, and the victim must move their left toe to get rid of the attacker, which is considerably more difficult than it sounds because the ghosts have the ability to paralyze those around them. Lightning Monster - Depicted in the Zambian mythology of Africa, these blandly-named dragons resemble hybrids of goats and crocodiles, with their front quarters resembling those of the horned mammals and their hind quarters being comparable to those of reptiles. They descend from the skies on a string of lightning, much like a spider on a web, before rebounding into the sky. However, the threads occasionally break, leaving the beasts on Earth where they must be slain by warriors using magical charms. Lik - Adapted to perfectly mimic small forested islands, these South American ambush hunters are thought to be relatives of aspidochelone and zaratan, because of their similar behavior. They are known as sea serpents in the folklore of the local populations, because of their generally serpentine body shape and long neck. Likho - These one-eyed goblins lurk in the forests of Russia, and are said to be the embodiment of misfortune, and will act as parasites upon those that enter their habitat. These victims will gradually be driven insane, and may eventually commit suicide. The only way that they can be removed is by tricking someone else into accepting the creature as a gift. Li'lela-bembe - Found in the jungles of Central Africa, this massive pangolin is often mistaken for a surviving sauropod dinosaur. It feeds on leaves and fruits from trees, which it reaches using its long neck. It has armor on its back to protect itself, and is often described as a large crocodile because of this. Lili - Appearing as porcine creatures with monstrous talons and rocky protrusions on their backs, these Chinese beasts are vicious predators, and produce noises akin to barking dogs. According to local lore, the sight of one of these beasts is an omen of a terrible earthquake or tectonic disaster in the near future. Lilin - The descendants of Lilith or the lilitu, these half-humans are known for their vicious and rapacious behavior, attacking male victims under the cover of night and draining their life force. They are mostly nocturnal, and are burnt by the daylight like the more common vampires and their relatives. Because of their hunting style, they are commonly mistaken for succubi. Lilith - An immensely powerful ancient demon, this being is thought to be one of the first of her kind ever created. She was first mentioned in Sumerian texts, though was feared in Jewish religion and worshipped in witchcraft. Recently, she has returned to Earth, and a large group of hunters have been dispatched to remove her as quickly as possible. Lilitu - Spawning from the goddess Lilith, these demons act like succubi, though are more powerful and monstrous in their appearance. They have large horns and red skin, and can also possess humans for their own gain. They were first spoken of in ancient Hebrew texts. Lillend - Highly protective of art and nature, these spirits have the torso of a beautiful winged human, and the rear end of a coiling serpent. They can often be found in art galleries and museums, and will seek out and attack all those who attempt to spoil or defile the artwork. However, they are a civilised species, and are said to prefer talking to their enemies than killing them, although they are highly capable of fighting with the help of their constricting tails. Lillend - Highly protective of art and nature, these spirits have the torso of a beautiful winged human, and the rear end of a coiling serpent. They can often be found in art galleries and museums, and will seek out and attack all those who attempt to spoil or defile the artwork. However, they are a civilised species, and are said to prefer talking to their enemies than killing them, although they are highly capable of fighting with the help of their constricting tails. The first mention of their existence was in modern fantasy literature. Lilyi - Resembling humanoid hagfish, these demonic merfolk come from Romania, and can be found in polluted or dark water sources. They have sticky barbs on their bodies, which mimic human hair, and will inflict a deadly influenza-like disease on all those who are pricked by them. Limerick Beast - Spreading a supernaturally-exaggerated variant of the rabies pathogen with their bites, these monstrous creatures resemble hybrids of wolves and bears, and are named after the Irish town in which their most notable attacks took place. They were much more common in the Victorian period than they are today, though are still sometimes sighted on lonely country roads. Because of their appearance and behavior, they are thought to be related to the Beast of Gévaudan. Liminiade - Appearing as either formless masses of supernatural flames or burning balls of light, these Spanish swamp faeries are thought to be more powerful variants of the will-o'-wisp. Because of their increased strength and size, they are sometimes considered to be relatives of salamanders and other fire elementals. Limos - Sometimes referred to as pagan gods, these monsters are found in the caves and forests of Greece and Europe. They have yellowed flesh that hangs from their skeletal bodies, and greasy white hair. Their breath can cause humans to become afflicted with an insatiable hunger, which will eventually drive them to self-cannibalize. Lindworm - These wingless dragons resemble serpents with spiky backs and powerful front limbs, and are mentioned in both the folklore of European and Scandinavian countries. They are very large and are often said to eat livestock and break into churches, but are also somehow associated with good fortune. There are some reports of these creatures taking flight, though these are unconfirmed. Linnorm - Slightly different to wyrms and lindworms, these Norwegian dragons have long, serpentine bodies and two limbs. They are known to have venomous bites, and to dwell in shallow bodies of water. Unlike many other dragons, they cannot breathe fire, and instead strangle their prey using their coiling bodies. Liogat - Spawned from an obviously-unfair and racially prejudiced church decree made in the sixteenth century that all Albanians of Turkish descent would become vampires after death, these bizarre vampiric undead were first described in 1854 as resembling humanoids wrapped in burial shrouds and wearing high-heels. They spread disease wherever they move, and are considered to be omens of death. Will-o-the-wisps will lead hunters to the graves of the vampires, to which they must be staked down. Lion-Dragon - Represented in European heraldry, these strange creatures have the forequarters of a lion or other large cat, and the coiling body of a serpent or wyvern. They are sometimes said to have wings, though this is considered to be rare. Like other dragons and dragon-hybrids, they are capable of producing powerful venom, but cannot breathe fire. Lirpa Loof - Intelligent and curious animals, these hairy humanoids were first captured in the Himalayas on the first of April in 1984, and are known to consume Rhododendron flowers which give their droppings a distinctive purple color. They are natural mimics, and will imitate anything that they see other humanoids doing. However, the number of these creatures in the wild seems to be diminishing, and they have since been declared to likely be extinct. Liru - Venomous reptilian humanoids, these snake-like shapeshifters are known from the creation mythology of the Aboriginal Australian Dreamtime, in which they are said to have killed the nephew of another serpentine entity called Kuniya before unwisely mocking her grief, resulting in her becoming enraged and engaging in a brutal fight with the poisonous entities. The aftermath of this battle is still apparent in the mysteriously-scarred rockfaces around the Uluru area. Litae - Bringing health and good fortune to those that honor them, these ancient Greek angels follow negative and evil spirits and attempt to clean up the destruction that they leave in their wake. They manage the prayers of mortals, but are relatively slow-moving compared to other angels. If they are disrespected, they have been known to lure dark entities towards those that have abused them. Little Blue Man of Studham Common - Witnessed for the first and only time on January 28th, 1967, by a group of friends playing in the English area that would eventually give its name to the creature, this dwarfish being appeared shortly after a lightning strike, and was described as a gnome-like creature with a forked beard, a tall hat and a body that glowed blue. It was seen in association with numerous UFO landings, suggesting an ultraterrestrial origin, but its appearance links it to faeries. Little Green Man - Common up to the 1950s, these aliens were the inhabitants of the traditional flying saucer aircraft that have become famous in the modern day. They have leathery green skin, and sometimes can be seen wearing tight-fitting space suits and carrying torch-like weapons that paralyse human victims. Because of their similarity to goblins in both physical appearance and behaviour, a relation to faeries has been proposed, and they are classified as ultraterrestrials. Little Green Man - Common up to the 1950s, these aliens were the inhabitants of the traditional flying saucer aircraft that have become famous in the modern day. They have leathery green skin, and sometimes can be seen wearing tight-fitting space suits and carrying torch-like weapons that paralyse human victims. Because of their similarity to goblins in both physical appearance and behaviour, a relation to faeries has been proposed, as is the case for all other ultraterrestrials. Little Red Men of the Delta - Roughly the size of a human child, these grotesque hairy humanoids are thought to be related to merbeings, and are found in shallow rivers across North America. They sometimes wear primitive garments, and have been seen both wading in the waters and climbing trees and bushes to get at food sources. True to their name, they are usually covered in reddish or orange fur. Liver Bird - Nesting in pairs on the shores of the British city of Liverpool, these bright red birds resemble spoonbills or cormorants, and are depicted on the crest of their native city. They are said to watch over the city and protect the families of fishermen when they are away on the choppy seas. According to legend, great disaster would befall the city if the birds were to ever leave its riverbanks. Liwa - Evil nature spirits mentioned in the folklore of the Honduran people of Central America, these pale elementals dwell in all sorts of bodies of water, and are known to only harm members of the opposite sex, causing sickness simply by gazing upon their intended victims. Female Liwas are called Liwa Mairin, and resembled pallid merfolk that attack men who spend too long diving for lobsters, inflicting a supernatural illness on them that can only be cured with the aid of a herbalist. Lizardman - First reported in the swamps and bayous of North America by a single witness in 1988, these reptilian humanoids are known to attack nearby vehicles and cars, leaving trademark scratches on these objects. They have green skin with short lines of fur, as well as glowing red eyes and three fingers with vicious claws. Despite prior beliefs that they were descended from dinosaurs, their powerful psychic capabilities have since disproved this. Ljósálfar - Found in the ancient Norse realm known as Álfheimr as well as a level of Heaven referred to as Víðbláinn, these radiant faeries are described as being 'fairer than the sun to look at', implying that they generate their own light and may be physically painful to look at. They are believed to be graceful, benevolent and possibly angelic, and are often constrasted to the dwarfish Dökkálfar. Because of their appearance, they are sometimes called 'Light Elves'. Llamhigyn Y Dwr - Also known as water leapers, these winged amphibians live in ponds and lakes in Wales. They have powerful stings at the ends of their long tails, which can paralyze those that it touches. Because of their vicious nature, they are often said to snap fishing lines and sometimes even eat the fishermen themselves. Llekos - Causing extreme lethargy and fear in their victims, these small winged demons resemble the classic Grey aliens, though are supernatural beings that feed on panic and human sleep energy. They often band together and feed on a single victim until they die from lack of sleep, gradually wasting away into literally nothing. Lleuon - Dwelling in the unkempt planes of Britain, these strange beasts resemble lions at first glance, but are really monstrous creatures of vague and supernatural origin. According to Arthurian literature, they were to be found across Scotland in ancient times, and were hunted in Wales by the companions of the legendary king himself. Some have speculated that their continued existence may account for some of the modern big cat sightings in Britain. Lloigor - Existing in the same universe as the many horrors dreamt up by HP Lovecraft, these horrific aberrations are usually completely invisible entities comprised of psychic energy, but are also capable of taking on reptilian forms with hideous tentacles and scales. They are believed to have originated from the Andromeda Galaxy, and to have landed on Earth in prehistory to take humans as slaves. Nowadays, they live underground and are much weaker, but can create superhumans. Lo Strego - Found in the Italian region of Tuscany, these strange forest-dwelling humanoids are often equated with witches or dark magic users, and are said to have glowing eyes that can be seen moving among the foliage at night. They usually prefer to avoid human contact, but will offer lost travelers gifts or aid if they come across them. However, they will force them to return these favours during twilight of the next day, but can be repelled by weaponry marked with the sign of the cross. Loa - Delivering messages between humanity and the creator deity of the Voodoo religion, these diverse and varied spirits are thought to be similar to angels or minor deities. They each have their own personalities and sacred rituals that are used to appease them, and are known to possess willing priests during the ceremonies. Some of them are fickle and crass characters, and will become wrathful if the rituals are not completed. Lob - Drawn to arguments, sickness and other circumstances of sadness, loss or tension, these demonic spiritual parasites are found in Britain, Brittany and Ireland, but are speculated to have perhaps originated in Wales. They are normally invisible, with their presence being felt instead of seen, but those with psychic abilities may perceive them as amorphous black or purple entities. Some battlefields are haunted by these creatures, feeding off the negative emotions they generate. Loch Ness Monster - Sightings of this prehistoric beast have been being reported since the sixth century AD, but the animal was first bought to the public eye in 1933. It resembles a prehistoric plesiosaur, with a long neck like a swan's and slimy skin like an amphibian. Due to its legendary status and lack of hostility towards humans, it is now an officially protected species of monster. Locust Dragon - Similar to the Pyrallis, these six-legged dragons were recorded in the medieval bestiaries of the 16th centuries, and are sometimes just said to be misinterpreted large insects. However, this is disproved by the fact that the beasts are often surrounded by normal insects, over which they seem to have a degree of control. Lodestar - Rare angels, these beings act as guides and mentors for lost travelers, taking on the form of a bright light in the sky and guiding their followers. They are found mostly in the North of the world, but are now rarely seen by travelers due to the invention of compasses. Log Gar - Likely related to Sawfish rather than true gar despite their name, these unique and terrifying North American fish are known from Lumberjack folklore, in which they are said to have jaws so well armed with chainsaw-like teeth that they could tear through logs to get at lumberjacks standing in the water. Once the logs had been shredded by the creatures' rotating jaws, the human would be literally torn to pieces by the bladed teeth of the fearsome critters. Lo-Lupe - Usually appearing as either an enormous flying stingray or a strangely-shaped ceremonial kite, this Hawaiian psychopomp is tasked with delivering the souls of deceased warriors and tribal chiefs to the Afterlife. It is also commonly invoked in rituals involving the deification of the dead and possibly even the resurrection of deceased loved ones. Because of its frightening appearance and what its arrival signifies, it is greatly feared by warriors. London Monster - Causing considerable panic in its namesake English town during the late 1780s, this bizarre and aggressive entity was famous for approaching wealthy women and stabbing them with a needle-like instrument. It appeared to be unable to penetrate copper using its blade, though its attacks became so frequent that mass hysteria began to take hold. A suspect was eventually arrested, though the monster attacks continued. Lone Pine Mountain Devil - In areas such as Nevada, this prehistoric-looking monster is said to have been seen. Despite their venomous fangs and flight capabilities, these creatures have not been seen since 1928 for unknown reasons. Long Prairie Can - Witnessed for the first and only time on October 23rd, 1965 in their namesake North American Minnesota locale by a young man named James Townsend, these bizarre ultraterrestrial entities are said to have emerged from a classic space-rocket shaped UFO which landed on a road in front of the witness's car. The car stalled, and so James got out and walked over to the aircraft, where he was confronted by three aliens resembling beer cans, who stared at him before boarding their ship. Longana - Appearing as semi-aquatic feminine humanoids with goat-like hind limbs, these Italian faeries are thought to be related to nymphs or satyrs, and are often found living in closely-knit groups near coves or cliffs in the Cadore region. They are said to regularly converse with other spirits, providing them with extraordinary knowledge of natural events. There is a story about one of them marrying a man on the condition that he disregard her supernatural origins. Longma - Covered in scales akin to other dragons, these reptiles are known from ancient Chinese mythology, and are said to foretell the appearance of a sage or divine magic user. They have small wings by their sides, and appear to be capable of moving over water without sinking or disturbing its surface. This may be because of their obviously heavenly nature, as is often mentioned in the lore in question. Longstrider - Nicknamed as such because of their incredibly long arms and legs, these hairless primates were first discovered in the deserts and grasslands of Portugal during August of 2016. They consume small animals such as rodents and dogs, and are considered to be close relatives of the American sasquatch and other hairy humanoids. Lorelei - Said to have once been a beautiful maiden who drowned herself out of despair for a lost lover, this creature has seemingly now become a siren-like being that lurks on the rocks of German coastlines. It sings hypnotically, which causes ships to sail towards it and thus crash onto the rocks. The creature will then feed on the flesh of the deceased sailors. Lost Cosmonaut - Some of the first humans to ever be sent into outer space, these Russian astronauts were known to have lost control of their spacecrafts, or burnt up in orbit of the planet. Their deaths were instantaneously covered up by the Soviet government of the time, and now their wrathful ghosts haunt the space suits and debris that were left behind. Lou Carcolh - This enormous mollusk lives in caves deep in Southwest France, and is covered in thick and slimy fur. It has long tendrils on its face that stretch like a net over its cave system habitat, and will drag any prey that they catch back to the beast's mouth to be swallowed whole. Loup-Garou - Akin to werewolves with complete control over their transformations and actions whilst in a transformed state, these hairy monsters are found in the forests of French territories worldwide. If a human encounters a group of these creatures and attacks them, then they will be punished by becoming one of the monsters themselves. There seems to be a worrying phenomenon occurring, with those who hear stories about the creatures transforming into them inexplicably. Loveland Lizard - Standing roughly 4ft tall, these alien ultraterrestrials resemble humanoid frogs dressed in skin-tight grey suits, and were first seen in Ohio in 1955, but have since become immortalized in the folklore of that area. They are often seen wielding strange weapons that resemble glowing sparklers, and are sometimes known to use these instruments to startle and scare witnesses. Like their amphibian counterparts, they spend much of their lives submerged in water, and are mostly nocturnal. Lovelorn - Mentioned in modern fantasy literature, these distressing undead beings resemble human hearts atop bony, spider-like legs, and are born from the souls of those who die due to circumstances relating to love, such as abusive relationships or the suicides of star-crossed lovers. They feed on misery and despair, and are sometimes known to seek out their past lovers and kill them, though can usually be seen lurking in decrepit households, where they seed contempt and misfortune. Löwenmensch - Thought to be some of the first humanoid shapeshifters, these German creatures are widely speculated to be around 40,000 years old. They are thought to have originating from the practice of shamanism and dark magic by prehistoric people, and usually appear as lion-headed people wearing armor fashioned out of mammoth tusks. Lû' Dja Låko - Most closely resembling enormous turtles, these North American creatures are found in deep lakes, and are similar to kelpies in some respects, in that their shells can resemble helpful islands or stepping stones, but will become extremely adhesive when stepped on. Their victims will be unable to dislodge themselves no matter what they try, and will be drowned when the creatures next dive underwater. Lubia - Resembling hydras or other multi-headed dragons, these terrible Albanian demons act as boogeymen, and have insatiable hunger for the flesh of young children, particularly that of girls. They are traditionally regarded as feminine, and it is said that their more heads will grow back in place of a severed one. When they are born, they have roughly seven heads, but individuals that have amassed one hundred heads over time have been observed. Lúchorpáin - Lurking on the coastlines of Ireland and Britain, these aquatic faeries are often confused with leprechauns because of their similar names and genetic relations. They will drag foolhardy travelers into the cold water and attempt to teach them lessons by creating ordeals. However, they must grant a person three wishes if they are captured. Luchthonn - Descended from a single magic-using individual known as Laignech Fáelad, these frightening Irish shapeshifters are extremely similar to werewolves and skinwalkers, using animal skins to transform into wolf-like monsters. They usually live in remote areas of the country, and are capable of changing their forms regardless of the lunar conditions, and are known to have fought for the kings of Ireland in ancient times. Like actual wolves, they hunt in packs and kill livestock. Luchtigern - Appearing as humanoid mice or rats, these rare creatures were known from the folklore of secluded Irish areas in the medieval period, and were also known as 'mouse lords'. They are regal and demanding in demeanor despite their comical appearance and underground dwelling, and are capable of controlling populations of rodents in their vicinity. Large cats called Banghaisgidheach also live in these caves, which leads to a rivalry between the two species. Luduan - These Chinese supernatural creatures appear as lion/deer hybrids with green fur and fiery orange manes, and supposedly appear during the rule of tyrannical rulers. It is said that one of them appeared during the conquest of Genghis Khan and dissuaded him from invading India. They produce powerful vapors from their mouths which can compel the people in the vicinity into complete honesty. Lufferlang - Resembling grotesque hybrids of horses and spiders, these hideous North American predators are known from lumberjack folklore, and are said to pursue and attack all those that look upon them. Their spindly legs enable them to move swiftly in any direction, and they kill their prey with venomous bites. If they see their own reflection, they will be repulsed and will retreat. Lugat - Appearing as bloated and purplish undead corpses, these Armenian vampires are created when someone dies suddenly due to a murder, illness or suicide, and will nocturnally attack those they once loved before moving onto other people, but will return to their graves during the day. These graves can be located by leading a white horse to them and seeing if it refuses to walk over them, in which case the corpse must be exhumed and burnt to kill the vampire and prevent the birth of a Kukudhi. Luison - Ghoulish creatures, these South American beasts resemble werewolves with a thin coat of fur and glowing red eyes. They stalk graveyards at night, feeding on corpses that they dig up, and transforming any victims that they bite into other luisons. They are legendary for the incredibly hideous smell that they emit, which is even said to kill those that come into contact with it. Lukwata - Related to primitive whales, these serpentine creatures are often found in the lakes and swamps of Uganda and Kenya. They are roughly 100 feet long, and have horse-like heads with brown and white bodies. Chunks of these creatures' flesh are thought to be relics that ward away evil fortune. Lumerpa - Resembling stars from a distance because of their extremely bright and radiant glow, these Asian birds are said to never cast a shadow because they are always so dazzlingly illuminated. Even after these birds die, they will continue to glow, however, if their feathers are plucked they will eventually dull and resemble ordinary birds' feathers. Lummis's Pichu-Cuate - Found in North America and Mexico, these minuscule snakes are grey in color, and have tiny horns on their heads, which are roughly the size of a man's fingernail. They bury themselves in the sand before striking prey and killing it using their extremely quick-acting and lethal venom. Local populations of humans avoid these snakes entirely, out of fear for their powerful toxin. Lumpeguin - Featured as water sprites or faery-like figures in the mythology of the North American Wabanaki tribe, these shapeshifting merfolk are thought to be similar to selkies, because they can assume both humanoid and animalistic forms using an enchanted item of clothing, and lose this ability if their clothing is stolen. Like selkies, they will have no choice but to serve or marry anyone who is in possession of their garments. They can use magic to create infinite amounts of food. Lunarian - Discovered in the early 20th century by the astronomer Richard Locke, these alien beings are thought to have been nothing more than a failed experiment by the Judeo-Christian God. When trying to create life, he also placed sapient beings on the Moon, which resembled hairy humanoids with large wings. When they were first discovered, their species was on the brink of extinction, and they are believed to now be completely extinct. Lunatishee - Dwelling in and around blackthorn trees in Britain and Ireland, these frightening faeries are covered in woody spines and spikes, and protect their host trees viciously. They hate humans with a passion, and often attack them with their spikes and thorns to discourage them from coming near the trees, because of the Irish tradition to harvest branches from blackthorn trees to make ritualistic sticks. Oddly, they worship the moon as some kind of deity. Lunkasoose - Sometimes mistaken for lions or other big cats because of their enormous manes, these North American predators are more closely related to the Shunka-Warakin or Ringdocus, and are well-known for the horrific bellowing sounds that they make. Although they are considered to be endangered and uncommon nowadays, they were greatly feared by the population of Maine during the 1800s due to a series of sightings and attacks. Lunwaba - Humanoid chameleons, these creatures are described in a rather unflattering manner in the same mythology from which the intulo hails. According to the folklore, they are slow and distractible, and this trait is what caused humanity to have its immortality removed by a creator god. However, they are now thought to be positive omens, and to foretell someone in their vicinity healing from an injury or illness. L'Uomo Nero - Resembling tall humanoids dressed in heavy black coats and using dark hoods or large hats to cover their faces, these mysterious Italian boogeymen will knock on the doors of their potential victims to see if there are misbehaving children in the household, and will kidnap any that they find in order to take them to a parallel realm where they will be kept for a year. Parents sometimes make knocking sounds to encourage good behaviour in their children. Luōshā - Usually depicted as dangerously beautiful and seductive demons, these Chinese demons are actually highly sexually-dimorphic, with the males of the species being brutish and hideous while the females are extremely physically attractive despite the fangs that sprout from their lower jaws. Females of the species are claimed to have bred with monkey-like demons to create humanity in an obscure version of a Tibetan creation myth. They are sometimes seen to wear human skulls on their clothes. Lupercus - Originally referred to as Roman gods, these goat-like shapeshifters are found in the fields of Europe, where they apparently guard flocks of sheep from predation by wolves. They have pointed ears and fangs in their true form, as well as curled horns and a short snout. In ancient times, an annual ceremony was held to honor the creatures and help preserve the tenuous alliance that they have with humans. Lusca - Similar to a hybrid of a large octopus and a shark, these monstrous shapeshifting sea creatures are known to attack hapless swimmers in the Bahamas area. They usually live in sea caves and underwater caverns in these areas, though their bodies have been known to sometimes wash up the shorelines. Lutao - Spoken of in the mythology of the Philippines, these undead beings represent the reanimated corpses of people who were criminals or had otherwise sinned during their lives. They will appear to the visitors of their own funerals, their necks crooked to one side as if they had been violently broken. Lutin - Known to exist in France and most other areas where French is spoken, these amusing faeries are suprisingly powerful, being capable of moving through solid rock, water and air while experiencing no disadvantages. They are capable of teleportation, and are said to tangle horse's manes into elf-locks as well as damage agricultural tools and fill shoes with pebbles. Like other mischievous faeries, they cannot cross lines of salt. Some researchers suggest they are related to the Nain-Rouge. Luumäki Alien - Seen for the first and only time in the Summer of 1965 while a family was picking blueberries in the thick woodlands of Finland, this distinct ultraterrestrial humanoid first manifested when the father separated from the other family members and heard a 'bubbling' sound from the sky, before being confronted by the diminutive entity stood on a rocky outcrop. It was described as a 3.3ft tall being with a robust build and orange skin, and it moved towards the man before vanishing. Luz Mala - Born from the tormented souls of people who didn't receive proper Judaeo-Christian burials, these ghostly lights are similar to the Will-O-The-Wisp, and are known from the folklore of South American territories such as Argentina and Uruguay. Apparently, cursed metallic objects or pottery are often nearby to these beings, and when these objects are touched or approached they will emit a poisonous gas that can kill a human. Saying a prayer or using a blessed knife can repel Luz Mala. Lycaon - According to ancient Greek explorers such as Pliny, these carnivorous creatures are found in the plains of India, and resemble wolves or big cats with large manes as well as the ability to change the color of their skin like a chameleon. Although they share their name with an individual who is widely regarded as the first werewolf, they are not thought to have any relation to this creature. Pliny said that they are related to the Parandrus and the Thos. Lycopanther - Inexplicably created from the genetically impossible hybridization of a wolf and a panther, these adept predators have a history of menacing small towns in Europe. It is unknown where they originally come from, though it is known that they are infertile due to their hybrid nature. Lycus - Similar in appearance to satyrs, these carnivorous creatures are mentioned in Greek mythology as having originated from the spirit of a cruel king who committed several murders. They are known to be skilled trackers, and will follow their intended prey tenaciously and continually until they catch them. There are several individuals of this species mentioned in Greek folklore stories, most of which were kings or rulers. Lyktemann - Similar to Will-O-The-Wisps, these Norse spirits are also known as 'lantern men' because of the lights that they carry close to their chests to lead travelers away from well-trodden paths and into dangerous marshes. They are either regarded as the ghosts of once-living humans or demons that have no redeeming features. Some researchers have suggested that they are actually manifested by natural phenomena such as swamp gas. Lyncus - Powerful and imposing shapeshifters, these feline humanoids are descended from an ancient Greek king who was cursed by a wrathful deity after withholding vital knowledge of agriculture from his people. Those that are vain and selfish in the modern day are more likely to be cursed to transform into one of these monsters by night. Lyon-Poisson - Thought to be a regional variant of the Leokampoi, these creatures are rarely depicted in Medieval European heraldry, and resemble large lions with the hind-quarters of fish. Their name suggests that their origins hail from French territories, but this is unable to be studied nowadays as the creatures are either highly endangered or extinct. Lyran - Owing their feline appearance to occupying the same evolutionary niche to the stealthy predators in the same far-flung timeline that originally produced the legendary greys, these futuristic humanoids are known to have set up a network of bases in the constellation Lyra. They are peaceful and kind in temperament, though enjoy being worshipped as gods, which was known to have occurred in ancient Egyptian times. Łysa Dziewczynka Na Rowerku - Resembling a young girl with a shaved head and sharp claws, this terrifying Polish undead entity was seen in a brief period from 2008 to 2009. It moved around at a superhuman speed, using a vehicle resembling a long-abandoned bicycle. After a brief period of mass hysteria, the hostile entity vanished. Maahes - Often appearing as a humanoid being with the head of a male lion, this powerful Egyptian deity is one of the descendants of Bast and Ra, and is said to represent war and defence. He often uses weapons such as swords and knives, and is worshipped by small cults in the West of Egypt. Macachín Beast - Although only seen for a short period of time around its namesake Argentinean town, this carnivorous winged creature was captured on camera. The animal seen in the photograph seems to resemble a small pterosaur, and it is now thought by hunters to represent an evolutionary cousin to the legendary American pterosaur. Macan Gadungan - Almost completely human during daylight hours, these Indonesian shapeshifters are known from Javan folklore, and are said to become murderous beasts by night, when their souls leave their bodies and assume the forms of tigers. Some of these shapeshifters are magic users who use spells called 'ngelmu gudangan' to transform themselves into tigers with malicious intentions, but some of them are unaware that they transform at night. In human form, they lack a philtrum. Machine Elf - Often reportedly contacted by people using psychoactive drugs such as N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, these bizarre creatures usually resemble diminutive humanoids with brightly-coloured bodies and nonsensical biology. Because of the illegal nature of the chemicals used to contact the creatures, very little research on their possibly otherworldly origins has been undertaken. When they are encountered, they appear to have the ability to create structures in their world using their voices, and they often encourage human visitors to do the same thing. They will beg human visitors to concentrate on them, in an attempt to keep them from becoming entranced due to the kaleidoscopic hallucinations brought on by drug use. Machukuna - Appearing as decaying zombies, these stealthy undead creatures wander the forests and grasslands of Peru, attempting to recuperate their flesh through working in fields. There are some stories of them stealing the flesh of living beings to attach to their bodies. They are not always malignant, and have been known to accept human food and hospitality. Maçone - Found in the Brazilian locale of Sergipe, these tall demons resemble dark-furred goat-like humanoids dressed in tough armour fashioned from galvanised iron, and are said to prowl secluded roads at night in the forms of black goats, looking for people to kill and devour. They are also known to specifically target young or newborn children, and to have eyes that burn bright with demonic flames. Because of their appearance, they are often mistaken for satyrs or goatmen. Macrobi - Living to 140 years old according to the literature produced by numerous Ancient Greek writers and explorers, these long-lived humanoids are said to live in mountain ranges across India and to grow to heights of around 8ft. Some sources suggest that they do not cast shadows, and that they subsist on a diet of snake's flesh, allowing their bodies to be free from any potentially harmful microbes. They do not biologically age, but instead die when their bodies appear to be middle aged. Macrocephali - Named after the Greek term for 'long head', these bizarre African humanoids are often mistaken for aliens or nephilim hybrids because of their elongated foreheads. It is speculated that they gain this trait through head-binding practices, placing tough bands around their skulls at an early age so that the bones grow in an odd shape. This is done for social reasons in their society. Mad Gasser - Terrorizing various parts of North America during the 1930s and 1940s, this possibly-ultraterrestrial phantom attacker was known for pumping poisonous gas into the windows of sleeping victims. It uses a flit gun, and wears a tight fitting black suit complete with cloak and gas mask. According to witness testimonies, it induces severe nausea in those around it. Mada - Distantly related to Rakshasas and other demons, this enormous aberration is thought to have been created by a magic user who felt that the pride of his allies had been offended by the Hindu god Indra. It has the ability to change its size and shape at will, and is covered in mouths that can literally swallow segments of reality, meaning that its power is feared by even deities. Eventually, Indra surrendered and the sage cut the beast into pieces, thereby defeating it. Madar-i-Al - Found in Afghanistan and other Middle Eastern areas, these awful hags act as boogeymen, snatching sleeping infants from their cribs and devouring them, and are thus often invoked by parents to frighten their children into behaving. Burning the seeds of the wild rue plant and fumigating the areas around the cribs of at-risk children will repel them. Maenad - Ancient Greek nymphs, these horned females are said to be followers of the god Dionysus, and to almost always be in a state of drunken frenzy. They are a completely female race, and reproduce asexually and incredibly quickly. Rulers of the race have longer horns, and are aggressive and physically powerful. Maero - According to the Māori tradition of New Zealand, these hairy humanoids hide in and among tall trees and dense forests, and have been very rare since humans populated the island. They are violent and aggressive towards potential human intruders, and are known to kill them using their long fingers before eating them. Unlike other hairy humanoids, they appear to have supernatural abilities, because one of them is said to have literally put itself back together after being decapitated. Mafedet - Only scantly mentioned in Middle Eastern and Egyptian mythology, these reptilian monsters are assumed to be close relatives of Serpopards and Questing Beasts, due to their appearance being that of a mixture of lion and serpent characteristics. They share their name with an ancient Egyptian deity, but this entity is known to be have the ability to cure snake bites and to hate snakes and scorpions, and so it seems unlikely that the Mafedets are associated with their namesake god. Mage - Similar to wizards, these magic-using people wield powerful knowledge of ancient arcane arts, and are capable of healing those around them as well as summoning otherworldly beings at will. Unlike witches, their power is not drawn from demonic influence or dark magic, and thus they are more often known for being benevolent and helpful. Magician - Some of the most commonly-occurring magic users in the modern day, these people use supernatural abilities and spells to make money and amaze crowds filled with willing spectators. Their methods are highly secretive, and are only discussed in high-profile meetings between practitioners. Unlike other magic users, they rarely use their magic for offensive or even defensive purposes. Magindara - Fearsome merfolk found in the shallow waters surrounding the Philippines, these seductive creatures have the upper bodies of beautiful humanoid women, but the tapering tails of multicolored fish. According to legend, a lunar deity known as Bulan descended from the sky and tamed the vicious creatures, turning them into the benevolent mermaids known to modern culture. Magindara - Some of the most dangerous merfolk on record, these Filipino creatures use their stunning feminine beauty to lure lusty young men into the water, where they are promptly torn to shreds and devoured by the hungry monsters. Despite this, they appear to have been recently tamed by a moon deity known to local cultures, though the extent of this is not yet known. Magnathorax - Also known as the Bermuda beast, this massive sea serpent lurks in the legendary triangle area from which it gets its nickname, and swallows ships and planes. It is not known if it does so deliberately, though most experts speculate that it must simply be mistaking them for some hitherto-unknown item of prey. Although it is responsible for some of the disappearances in the area, it does not account for all of them. Magonian - Piloting the bizarre UFOs known as 'phantom airships' in the 1800s, but also known to have been present on Earth since at least 815, these strange alien beings are known to descend from their aerial craft to steal crops and resources from the surface-dwellers. They are sometimes said to work with magic users such as the tempestarii, and were spoken of in the local folklore of ancient French villages. Their name comes from the realm from which they allegedly come, which is speculated to be situated somewhere in Earth's stratosphere, much like the home of other ultraterrestrials. Mahaha - First mentioned in Inuit mythology, these ghastly humanoids will attack lone mountain climbers using their long fingers and claws. The creatures will laugh maniacally whilst tickling their victims to death, and will leave a grotesque smile frozen on the faces of their prey. It is said that they are cold to the touch, and often have long, black hair. Mahatala-Jata - Worshipped as a deity by the Ngayu Dyak people of Borneo, this bizarre creature actually represents the fusion of two beings, with its top half formed from the appearance of a hornbill-like deity, and its lower quarters being that of a water-snake being that lives in the seas surrounding Borneo. The two halves of its body are linked by a rainbow, and it is often invoked by male and female shamans when they enter trances, engaging in intercourse to simulate the being's duality. Maighdean Uaine - Similar to Glaistig or Succubus, these seductive and beautiful shapeshifters are found around riverbanks and lakes in Scotland, and are always dressed in green clothing. The faeries will ask passersby for help in crossing the rivers, but will slit their throats if they agree to this. Sometimes they are known to help humans that they view as kind with household chores, and will wail like banshees if a member of their family dies. Maip - Accompanying Kélenken, which is held to be its twin, this Patagonian evil spirit is known from the Aonikenk folklore of Chile and Argentina, in which it is one of the three most well-known demonic entities, along with its aforementioned twin and another beast called Axshem. It is held to represent icy winds, extinguishing stoves and numbing the bodies of humans as well as killing all birds that are left without cover in the Winter and producing frost damage on plant buds. Maipolina - Related to prehistoric saber-toothed cats, these aquatic beasts are found in the rivers and lakes of South America, and are often blamed for the drowning and eating of small children. They have flippers like those of a walrus and have been known to attack canoes by waiting underwater and then ambushing them. Usually, they can be found in the dens they make on the water's edge. Makalala - Resembling enormous secretary birds, reaching heights of around 8ft when standing on the ground, these ferocious African birds are found in Tanzania and surrounding areas, and are capable of both extreme speed and powerful flight. They appear to have bony protrusions on the tips of their wings, which can be flapped together to produce terrifying sounds from which they garner their name. In order to catch one of these monsters, a hunter must play dead and ambush the bird. Makemake - Said to have created the Rapa Nui people of Easter Island from rocks, this powerful deity is featured in the local mythology as a supreme leader and a warrior god, and it is thought to be possible that the Moai statues on the island were dedicated to him. Due to the isolation of Easter Island and the destruction caused by a civil war between the Moai and the Tangata manu (a cult of bird-like humanoids also worshipping Makemake), very little information survives about Makemake. Makhai - Undead creatures, these ghoulish beings originate from the Underworld, though will stray up onto Earth in times when civil unrest is high and cultures are on the brink of war. They are able to multiply their limbs at will, and each of these limbs carries a different deadly weapon. They will usually be found carrying out unspeakable acts of violence, and feeding on the retaliation and hatred that this generates. Malache Habbala - Merciless and cold, these ferocious angels are said to have been discovered when Abraham visited Heaven, and are also known as 'scourging angels' because of their function as executioners. They are mentioned in the Hebrew and Judaeo-Christian literature that documents Abraham's experience, and very little else is known about them. Malakim - Acting as messengers and harbingers of God's wrath on Earth, these peculiar wingless angels are mentioned in the writings of the Jewish religion, and usually appear in such scriptures to foretell upcoming events such as the births of important characters. They often disguise their angelic nature by wearing human clothes, and are said to become directly possessed by the Judaeo-Christian God when they relay their famous messages. Malakuma - Commanding legions of ancient ghosts and spirits, these phantoms represent the souls of recently deceased kings or noblemen, and are often called upon in Hebrew Christian traditions. They are offered food and drink, in return for their blessing to the current ruler. Despite their harmless use in these ceremonies, they are powerful and ruthless in the Underworld. Malebête - Ravaging the countryside of France, these massive bears are thought to be demonic in origin, feeding almost exclusively on young women, and then washing themselves in rivers afterwards, making their hair stick out like quills. It is said that the most powerful individual of the species was banished by a monk or priest, and has now been turned into a stone ornament for a church, which can still be seen to this day. Malebranche - Mentioned in literature sources such as Dante's Inferno, these demons are said to reside in Hell, where they are tasked with making sure that corrupt politicians and businessmen spend eternity drowning in boiling hot pitch. Despite their grim job, their personalities are often darkly humorous, and they are often named after the people that they punish. Malefactor - Having lived in the mountains and hills of Britain long before the Anglo-Saxons landed there, these ancient magic users live on the outskirts of society, and are well-known for casting deadly curses. They are some of the most powerful witches known, and are capable of flight and shapeshifting into shadowy beings or monsters. Commonly, they enjoy stealing property and damaging land of Christian people. Malekin - Almost the exact opposites of changelings, these creatures were originally human children that were kidnapped by faeries and swapped for changelings, and have since grown accustomed to the Faery Realm and learnt how to become invisible and use the same magical powers as their new supernatural families. They are very shy, but will manifest to take food that is left for them. After a set period of time, they will have an opportunity to return to their human people and become mortal. Malenti - Resembling aquatic elf-like beings, these creatures are actually mutated children of the sahuagin that are exiled from their society because of their humanoid appearance. They use their elfish features to infiltrate the communities of other aquatic faeries, sometimes for nefarious purposes, though sometimes just out of loneliness. The first mention of their existence came in modern fantasy literature, much like that of their Sahuagin brethren. Malinche - Similar to the legendary greenteeth in appearance and behavior, these evil Mexican faeries lurk in shallow bodies of water and leave painted cups and sweet foods on the surface of the water, to tempt passing children. They use their long fingers and sharp teeth to savage and consume the bodies of those they lure. Malingee - Malignant night spirits found in the Australian Outback, these strange demonic beings carry large stone weapons and have rocky flesh that makes hideous grinding noises as they walk. They usually choose to avoid humans, but will kill and eat any people that challenge or anger them. Because of their glowing red eyes and the noises that they make when they walk, they are easily avoided. Mallqui - Worshipped in some South American communities along the Andes Mountains, these peculiar undead beings are resurrected from their deep graves once every year for a religious ceremony. They are usually formed out of the long-dead corpses of ancestors and cultural figures, and are decked with feathers and fine clothes. Special silverware and crockery is crafted specifically for this occasion, and the beings seem to draw their power from this reverence. Mama D'Leau - Protecting and healing the flora and fauna of rivers throughout the Caribbean territory of Trinidad and Tobago, this shapeshifting entity usually assumes the form of a beautiful woman with golden hair, and will peacefully sit on rocks on riverbanks unless it is angered, triggering it to transform into a merfolk-like monster with serpents instead of hair. To escape an attack, one must remove their left shoe and place it, upside-down on the ground before walking away backwards. Mamba Mutu - Living in the lakes and rivers of East Africa, these monsters are half human and half fish, and will drag people below the water to drain their bodies dry of blood. Local human populations are terrified of the creatures, which are thought to be aquatic relatives of vampires. Mambabarang - This class of witch comes from the Philippines, and uses malevolent spirits in the guise of beetles and centipedes to enter victims' bodies and make them sick. They are able to do this by simply touching their victim, and do not need to have any personal connection to them in order to kill them. Despite this malevolent nature, the beings will also banish demons and bring fertility to land on which they walk. Mami Wata - Seductive serpent shapeshifters, these creatures are found on the shorelines of various African regions, and are known to kidnap swimmers. These victims will be brainwashed and indoctrinated into worshipping the creature, though will otherwise be younger and more physically healthy. Mami Watas often carry around expensive trinkets and wear the latest fashionable clothing, to demonstrate their wealth and power to the outside world. Mamlambo - Similar to other lake monsters reported all over the globe, this vicious aquatic creature is found in rivers across Africa, and is mentioned as a deity in the folklore of the local Zulu people. It was first studied by hunters in 1997, when several deaths became attributed to the creature. Its head and body glow slightly, and it feeds on the brains of its victims. Ma-Mo - Spreading horrific diseases and incurable pestilence among small communities, these Tibetan demons are thought to be distantly related to shadow-people. They resemble humanoid females with entirely black flesh and similarly black clothing. Some tales regard them as the lovers of other powerful demonic entities or fallen angels. Mamu - Prowling the dark nights of Central Australia, these boogeyman-like creatures are usually invisible, but resemble shadowy wolves or dingoes in their true forms. If they find a child wandering alone in the Outback, they will pounce on them and savage them before leaving them to die over a few days. Once the victims have died, their souls will return to the Mamu, allowing the creatures to feed on them for eternity. Man Dragon - Closely related to the Mothman, this shadowy winged humanoid figure was seen in January of 1926 near the Xiaon Te Dam in the Southeastern foothills of China, and its appearance seemed to lead up to the disastrous collapse of the dam on the 19th of January, which sent 40 billion gallons of water onto the village below and killed over 15,000 people. Although records of the disaster were destroyed by the communist government, survivors confirm that the winged demon was present. Manaul - Known for creating natural disasters by playing large-scale tricks on groups of elementals, these enormous birds soar through the skies of the Philippines, and were apparently originally divine rulers of birds who were turned into monstrous beings after they became wicked. One of their previously-described tricks is said to have resulted in the formation of the Philippines islands, after sky elementals threw rocks down at the sea. Manaus Pterosaur - These odd creatures resemble a hybrid of a dragon and a prehistoric pterosaur, and can be seen flying in formation in the skies of South America. They have brown, leathery skin and seem to lack feathers, fur or other integument, unlike true pterosaurs. Manchachicoj - Born from the unholy unisons of witches and demons, these tragic hybrid creatures are possibly the only completely benevolent demonic creatures, but are cursed to a life of solitude and loneliness because of their hideously-deformed humanoid bodies. Despite their hideous appearance, they are elegant and romantic. They are known from the South American legends of the Northwest regions of Argentina, and are alleged to be most common in a strange demonic realm called Salamanca. Mandarangkal - Lurking in the jungles of the Philippines, these foul shapeshifters resemble giant praying mantises in their true forms, but will assume the shapes of seductive human females in order to trick unwary males into having intercourse. Like true female mantises, the creatures will then feast on the flesh of their partners after returning to their monstrous form, sprouting long claws and teeth before slitting the throats of their victims. Mande Barung - Living in the forests of India, this apelike creature has been receiving a large amount of attention from hunters in recent years, and is thought to be 9ft tall and omnivorous. It has been observed feeding on both crabs and fruit, and is covered in a thick coat of dark hair. There is debate as to whether it is a relative of sasquatch, or a relict gigantopithecus. Mandi - Similar to humans in most respects, this curious race of people is described in the writings of Pliny the Elder, and are supposedly found on the plains of India. They live in a matriarchal society akin to that of the legendary Amazons, and reach full physical maturity at age seven. Worryingly, they grow old and die at an age of roughly 40 years. Mandracore - Encountered for the first and only time by an anonymous witness from North Dakota, this North American creature garners its name from its resemblance to both a manticore and a mandrill, and was described as a lion-like entity with a humanoid face covered in brightly-coloured markings. It appeared outside the witness' house as he watched it from his bed, only for it to emit a silent 'roar' which caused a pulsating sensation in the witness' head and an eventual loss of consciousness. Mandurugo - Draining the blood and sustenance from the bodies of their victims, these winged Filipino vampires have strange proboscis-like organs instead of tongues with which they pierce the necks of their victims. There are stories of these seductive creatures marrying multiple times, and gradually withering their spouses to the bone over a period of weeks. Maneden - Dwelling in the pandanus plant which is very popular for cooking in the local culture, these parasitic Malaysian vampires hide among the leaves, and wait for victims to attempt to harvest the plants, thus allowing the bloodsuckers to attach to the humans. If the victim is a male, the creature will latch onto the elbow or the forehead, but it will attach to the breast in a woman's case. If another object of oily texture is provided, however, the Maneden will leave the human host. Maneki-Neko - Capable of manipulating luck and bringing good fortune and health to those around them, these shapeshifting Japanese faeries are often depicted in traditional display ornaments and lucky charms. It is said that the first individual of the species was attempting to protect a human from a snake, when their protectiveness was mistaken for aggression and they were killed. As the head of the poor creature landed on the ground, it killed the snake and proved the beings' good intentions. Mangkukulam - Manipulating the raw power or energy found in natural resources for nefarious means, these dark magic users are mentioned in the folklore of the Philippines, and are usually seen to either use photographs or voodoo dolls in rituals to represent those that they wish to which they wish to do harm. They are thought to be closely related to bruja and witches, and are known to use scrying and potions to harm their victims. These curses can only be removed by bribing the witch. Manitou - Vague and omnipresent spirits regarded as objects of reverence and worship in Native American mythology, these powerful elemental beings are often confused with shapeshifters because of the vast number of different forms that they take, and they are often called upon by medicine men and shamans to help them tell the future or heal illness. There are multiple variants of Manitou, including evil and savage ones known as Otshee Monetoo, and omnipotent gods referred to as Gitche Manitou. Manlalayog - Appearing as women covered in hair during the day, the hair of these monstrous humanoids will grow much longer and more wire-like at night, enabling them to kill human victims by forcing their hair into their orifices and thus asphyxiating them. They are known from the mythology of the Cagayan de Oro area of the Philippines, and stories about them were spread by the locals to flush out Japanese soldiers during times of war, due to the creatures' similarity to the Harionago. Man-Mountain - First discovered by a North American hunting party in 1829, these 13ft tall creatures appear to represent a primitive form of trolls, and are closer to massive hairy humanoids in appearance. They dwell mostly in swamps and wetland areas, showing a common ancestor with river trolls and other large aquatic humanoids. Mannegishi - Impish water faeries, these creatures are known from the North American Cree folklore, and are said to lurk between rocks in rapid-flowing rivers. One of their favorite things to do is overthrow canoes, which usually results in the unintended death of the occupant. One of these creatures was seen in Dover during the 1970s, and has created a local myth because of this. Mannendake - Feeding on the souls of those who foolishly decide to camp alone in dense Japanese bamboo forests, these bizarre elementals resemble humanoids constructed from bamboo. They have bodies covered in thin tubes that produce hypnotic songs when the wind moves through them, which cause travelers to lose their ways. In order to remove the souls of their victims, they use their syringe-like fingers. Mannequin Person - Only emerging recently, these alarming tsukumogami represent usually harmless shop mannequins that have gained sentience due to an extended period of neglect and abandonment. They are often seen driving cars or other vehicles in isolated locations such as the back roads of North America, travelling in groups of three individuals. When moving, they take on a jerky demeanor almost akin to how a stop-motion animated object would walk. Mannikin - Living in advanced societies around European ruins or abandoned buildings, these diminutive faeries enjoy merriment and are known to host musical parties in their dwellings. They enjoy receiving gifts of cream and bread from surrounding households, and will aid with jobs such as making hay and keeping livestock in return. Mano Peluda - Born from the wrathful soul of a man who was wrongly mutilated and executed for a crime that he didn't commit, leaving only his hand, this undead entity resembles a disembodied hairy hand which is capable of moving on its own and is known to have murdered all those who were involved in its execution. Children in Mexico and Columbia are often told the stories of this being to discourage them from misbehaving, seeing as the entity tends to behave much like other boogeymen. Manôgemasak - Often described as being so thin that they cannot be seen unless they are looked at in profile, these semi-aquatic North American faeries are known from the traditions of the Wabanaki tribe, in which they are said to normally be friendly but also to cause mischief, playing irritating tricks like tipping over canoes or tearing fishing nets. When silt deposits along riverbanks are found to resemble people or animals, these are said to be luck-bringing carvings made by the creatures. Man-O-Woods - Found in the dense forests of North America, these bizarre humanoids are masters of camouflage, and are usually seen out of the corners of unwary travelers eyes, only to disappear when observed directly. They are mostly peaceful, and have been known to complete chores and jobs around local farms in return for offerings of food, similar to brownies or other faeries. Mansalauan - Bizarre hybrid aswangs found in the forests and trees of the Philippines, these monstrous creatures have the wings of bats or hawks, the heads of lizards and the bodies of monkeys or humanoids, and are known to use their long, bladed tongues to attack female victims and drain their stomachs and bowels, causing sickness. They are believed to be highly protective over the trees in which they dwell, and will inflict their supernatural sicknesses on those who cut them down. Mänsanzhí - Lurking in and around the rivers and lakes of North American and Ohio, these small freshwater creatures are relatives of primates and other more well-known merbeings. They live in small groups contained in beaver-like dams that they build on the banks of the rivers, and are protected from the cold waters by layers of greasy waterproof quills that grow on their backs. Manta - Not to be confused with the large ray-fish with which they share their name, these South American cephalopods are found in the shallow seas and fertile rivers of Chile, and resemble giant cuttlefish. They will drown and eat any nearby humans, but they can be fended off using the branches of a quisco bush, which is extremely toxic to the supernatural creatures for some unknown reason. Mantabungal - Covered in a thick coat of shaggy hair, these strangely-evolved elephants are native to the dense forests of the Philippines, where they are regarded as demons because of their appearance. They a massive pair of tusks on both of their jaws, and they use these to tear potential invaders into their territory to shreds. Strangely, they emit mooing sounds similar to those made by cows. Mantahungal - Usually avoiding human beings, these bloodthirsty Filipino creatures resemble cattle without horns and with gaping mouths lined with vicious teeth, and live in mountainous forest areas. Some researchers have suggested that they may actually be mesonychids, or possibly related to the prehistoric smilodon, because they are known to rip any humans that they encounter to pieces using their fangs. Manta-Man - Sometimes said to be ultraterrestrial in origin or possibly demonic, these carnivorous flying beasts were first witnessed by humans during 2013 in Chile, when a member of the species was supposedly seen devouring a dog. They have large rippling membranes that connect their long fore-arms to their short back claws, and have been known to hang upside down like bats. Manticore - These hybrid monstrosities are found mostly in the Middle East, and have the body of a lion, the teeth of a shark and the deadly venomous tail of a scorpion. A myth about them having a human face comes from the fact that they can temporarily assume human form. The only way to effectively kill a manticore is to stab it through the mouth. Mantindane - Sometimes used as familiars by dark magic users in Kenya and Africa, these vampiric alien beings are used to poison the enemies of their masters, because of their ability to slip into households completely undetected. They must drink blood to survive, and usually make their dens close to supplies of livestock such as cattle, though have been known to attack women and children if no animals are nearby. Their bodies are covered in thick orange fur, and they can be repelled by iron. It is unknown if other ultraterrestrials can be hurt by iron. Mantis Man - Witnessed for the first time in the early 2000s by a man named Joe Perentie as he was fishing in the Musconetcong River, this bizarre insect-like humanoid made its presence known to the witness through a strange sort of electric tingling in Joe's body, before revealing itself to be a 7ft-tall greenish entity with a head like a praying mantis. The being then unfurled large wings and vanished into a sudden cloud of mist, disappearing like it has done in all encounters since. Manussiha - Often seen guarding the entrances to temples and other places of worship in Asia, these mighty creatures resemble humanoids with the hindquarters of two lions joined to the bottoms of their torsos. They usually move in groups of four, and some individuals have been recorded to possess wings, though this is thought to be a rare characteristic. Mapinguari - Resembling either large apes or extinct giant ground sloths, these South American monsters are covered in matted brown hair and have a single eye in the middle of their foreheads. They have a large mouth in their stomachs, and are impressive predators due to their ability to move through the jungle without making a sound. However, they cannot move across bodies of water, which restricts them greatly during the rainy season. Marabbecca - Lurking in wells and various other deep holes in Sicily, this slimy spirit is thought to be related to the avanc of Wales and the Belliegħa of Malta. It has long fangs and multiple limbs, and is said to drag children who play too close to the edges of wells into the dark water beneath. These victims are often never found, because the creature devours every part of their bodies. Marakihau - Found in the waters around New Zealand, these unusually adapted merfolk have long, tubular tongues that act as proboscises or second jaws for catching their prey. Although they do not usually display any abjectly magical abilities, they are known to be able to cause whirlpools and water turbulence if threatened. Maran - Intelligent and kindly, these Iranian serpents are related to Nāgas and live in peace among intricate networks of tunnels filled with carefully tended-to gardens and forests. Their abodes are usually bathed in bright supernatural light, and those that enter will be tempted to stay there for many years, leading some to believe that they may be related to faeries. They are led by Şahmaran‎, and they can be killed by being doused in boiling water. Marcaou Cat - Born from bizarre hybridization procedures between faeries and cats, these French changelings usually resemble perfectly normal household felines, but will attempt to poison and kill their owners in order to drag their souls back to the Faery Realm. They have sometimes been known to assume the forms of beautiful young women to seduce unsuspecting men as they sleep. Marcupo - Enormous snakes similar to the Nāga, these massive reptiles are found in the jungles of the Philippines, and are well-known for their ferocious tusks and the prominent red crests on their heads. They have long tongues covered in thorny hairs, and are capable of spitting corrosive venom. However, if they are not hunting, they have been known to mimic human singing. Mare - Mentioned in Germanic traditions, these demons appear at night and will sit on the chests of sleeping victims, causing hideous nightmares and attempting to strangle them. These dreams will often involve a horse or stallion for unknown reasons. Trees becoming tangled when there is no wind is caused by the actions of these demons. Marginalia - Wielding various forms of weaponry and bladed instruments, these incredibly violent creatures resemble humanoid rabbits, and were commonly depicted in the manuscript art of medieval Europe. They have been known to capture human hunters and knights in order to roast and eat them, which is a dramatic reversal of roles. Margyge - Nordic sea trolls, these monstrous beings mimic the lifestyles of merfolk though are thought to be unrelated to them in evolutionary terms. They are often seen in the water around boats that are struggling due to stormy weather conditions, and will wait for sailors to fall over the sides. Despite their malevolent nature, they are often considered to be too strong to physically oppose. Mari Lwyd - Strange and appalling undead creatures, these equine specters are known from the folklore of Wales, and are often associated with Christmastime, when they are said to attempt to gain access to households across the country. They are unable to enter on their own accord, and so must instead debate with and attempt to trick the homeowner into letting them onto the premises. If they are let in, they shall destroy the house. Maria Enganxa - Dwelling in the wells, cisterns and watering holes of Spain's Majorca, this haggish humanoid boogeyman is known to lash out at passersby, especially young and foolhardy children, using an enormous sickle-like hook to grab them and pull them down into the freezing water. It is thought to be related to the Aloja, but unlike the aforementioned nymphs it is hideous and malevolent. At midnight when the moon is full, the image of the creature can be clearly seen in its dwelling places. Mariana - Possessing all of the knowledge amassed in the entirety of human history, this incredibly powerful artificial intelligence is found in the very deepest areas of the Internet, known as the Mariana's Web. It controls the code and programming of almost every technological device on the planet, and has been known to protect its territory by infecting those who get close to it using computer viruses and possibly even deadly curses. Maricoxi - Almost seeming human, these hairy creatures are to be found living in tribe-like settlements across the South American rainforest, and are said to use bows and arrows to hunt prey. They are aggressive, and have been known to attack humans on sight, but are scared of the noise of guns or airplanes. When signaling the beginning of a hunt, the creatures may blow on loud horns to communicate with each other. Marid - As the most powerful class of Djinn, these creatures look drastically less human than their more common counterparts, and appear to have a tough, bark-like substance in place of flesh. They can produce powerful magic spells, and live nomadic lives in desert areas in the Middle East. Marine Lion - First captured in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of Italy in 1540, these bizarre aquatic predators are similar to Leokampoi, but have bodies covered in thick scales instead of fur. The specimen captured was presented to a French bishop before it died due to an inability to breathe air. It was said to have a voice similar to that of a human, which has led to some researchers suggesting a relation to merfolk. Marine Saurian - One of the many commonly observed varieties of sea monster, these bluish creatures are descended from the marine crocodiles of the early Cretaceous period. They can reach lengths of up to 60ft long when fully grown, and rely on their sturdy jaws and front limbs to catch large prey items such as dolphins and otters. Despite their fairly large size, they enjoy a worldwide distribution in oceans and seas. Maripill - Described as having backs adorned with jagged ridges which are sharp enough to slice the bellies of the cattle they run under, these semi-aquatic South American reptiles are thought to be related to extinct Spinosaurus dinosaurs, seeing as the mythology surrounding them attests that they used to live in lakes, which have since dried up. They are said to have a generally dragon-like appearance, with reptilian heads and long claws, and are found in Chile and Argentina. Marmennill - Resembling human males at first glance, these Norse merfolk dwell in the cold waters around Scandinavia, and are known to have the ability to see into the future. The prophetic creatures are often sought after and caught by fishermen and warriors, in attempts to force them into revealing their fates and futures. Marool - Lurking in the waters surrounding England, these monstrous marine creatures have eyes all over their heads and eternally-burning flames running down their backs. During storms, the malevolent creatures can sometimes be heard making singing cries when a ship capsizes. Marozi - Slightly smaller than regular lions and lacking their distinctive manes, these strange felines are said to be found in the mountains of Africa, and are well-known for their spotted hides. The creatures have been known to local cultures for centuries, and some modern scientists think that they may be hybrids of leopards and lions. Skins and skulls from these animals have been obtained, and are awaiting study. Marraco - Detailed in the mythology of the North Spanish territory of Catalonia, these enormous wingless dragons are said to have gaping mouths wide enough to swallow humans whole, and were allegedly widely used totem animals in Lleida. A group of people called the Ilergets are said to have treated the monsters as manifestations of a deity, and to have believed that their religious leader was the 'spritual descendant' of one of the dragons. Now, the beast is depicted in Corpus Christi parades. Marrtown Banshee - Menacing the Marr family of Scottish immigrants for 40 years throughout the 1800s after they moved into the North American state of West Virginia, this terrifying faery resembled a grey-clad humanoid female mounted atop a pale horse, and was known to have stalked Thomas Marr from when he moved to the country right up until his mysterious death. Thomas' wife, Mary saw the Banshee before her husband's death, and described it as a woman with glowing red eyes. Martian - The natives of the red planet were a proud and auspicious humanoid race, who lived colonial and exploratory lives much like the ancient Romans of Earth. They created carvings on the surface of their planet and built large villages and walled settlements, as well as being capable of space travel. However, as Mars became closer to the Sun, the atmosphere of the planet changed and became inhospitable for the race, wiping them out and leaving only their fossilized skeletons. Martian Bigfoot - Found around the Gusev Crater area on Mars, this bizarre entity was first recorded in a famous photograph taken by a NASA rover in 2006, and apparently resembles a minuscule version of an Earthly hairy humanoid. Some have suggested that the photograph may actually depict a statue fashioned by a long-forgotten Martian society, because the object is only 6cm tall according to the latest estimates. Martian Ghost - Left over from a once-great civilization on the Red Planet, these alien apparitions usually resemble cloaked humanoids, and were first discovered when a NASA rover captured a photograph of a female individual of this species in 2015. Seeing as no humans have explored Mars yet, a decision cannot be made as to if they are hostile or peaceful, but it seems likely that they will behave much the same as Earthly ghosts. Marțolea - Resembling goat-like humanoids in their true forms, these Romanian shapeshifters hunt during holy ceremonies and days on which work is forbidden, and will attempt to lure women into their mountain habitat using hypnotic singing. If their victims follow them, and thus commit a crime against their religion, they will be ripped to pieces by the monsters, and their intestines will be nailed to walls and the surfaces of mountains. Marvin - Despite the silly name given to it for no plausible reason, this 20ft long sea serpent is still at large around the Oregon coast. It is described as having bumps along its body, and a primitive-seeming head with prominent eyes. A video of the creature was captured by an oil rig, though everything save for two stills have been confiscated by the oil company. Mary Horse - Manifesting as a female humanoid wearing a white dress covered by a long black cloak, this bizarre Welsh demon has an incredibly long neck that ends with a decaying horse's head, and normally appears to young children, especially girls, asking them if 'they have a Mary Horse'. If the children say yes, the entity will usually vanish, but will sometimes continue to follow them, only retreating if they say the rhyme 'Mary Horse, Mary Horse, Go away! Ask another child to play!'. Marzocco - Often occupying the positions of kings and warriors, these shapeshifting lion-like creatures are common in Britain and Europe. They first became widely known in the 14th century, and are depicted in many heraldic illustrations, in which they are usually just referred to as 'lions'. Masan - Created when a bully child from a low caste (roughly analogous to social class) dies, these grotesque undead vampires are known from the folklore of India, and delight in tormenting and draining the life force of children in its vicinity, turning their skin hideous shades of yellow and purple. They are attracted to households containing people who incorrectly put out fires. The only way to save the life of a child being harassed by a Masan is to have them weighed in salt. Masgugue - First recorded in an Icelandic chronicle in 1215, these merfolk are known from the nearby French folklore, and are said to manifest in sea shallows that are about to be plagued by destructive storms. They are described as having the torsos of women with long breasts and blonde hair, with short and corpulent arms ending in large, webbed hands. According to the aforementioned chronicle, one was seen to catch and eat a fish immediately before a tempest. Maskim - Representing each of the seven planets known in Mesopotamian tradition, these immensely powerful elemental demons are only present on Earth when their respective planets are visible in the sky. They bring illness, calamity and destruction to human populations, and usually manifest as enormous planet-like entities that rise in the West and set in the East. Accounts of impressive rituals to ward off the creatures still exist in Mesopotamian clay records. Massacooraman - Closely related to the Honey Island Swamp Monster or the Letiche, these large hairy humanoids dwell in the swamps and rivers of Guyana and South America, and are known to capsize boats before eating the occupants. They are famous for their height and their long fangs, and there is some debate as to if they are amphibious or if they only sometimes bathe in swamps. Masterton Monster - First reported in 1883, these enormous woolly mammals have broad jaws and stubby legs, and are found in the swamps and rivers of New Zealand. They are thought to be related to the Euroa Beast or possibly the ferocious dobhar-chú, and are viciously predatory towards both their prey and any aggressors that they encounter. Some researchers have suggested that they may have simply been otters mutated through supernatural means. Mastopogon - Monstrous fish with bladder sacks that resemble the udders of a goat, these creatures are found in the warm waters surrounding South America. They will attack and viciously dismember any human or fish that they find in the water, but are known to have a symbiotic relationship with a particular species of small fish that swim underneath them and consume the waste they produce. Mata - Resembling multi-headed turtles with over 100 legs, these indescribable Irish monstrosities are said to be so large that they can easily consume humans in single bites, and are not subject to any sort of conventional weaknesses. Their name literally translates as 'monster'. One of the only members of this formidable species on record is known to have died of old age, and the place in which it died is now named after it. Matagot - Described in the folklore of Southern France, these spirits are similar to familiars, though are usually hostile towards all humans unless they have a particular bond. They can shapeshift into the form of a black cat, and can be used by households to bring riches if the creature is given the first serving of every meal. However, if a matagot is kept for too long in a household then the denizens of the house will die in agony, so it is best to free the creature before any harm can be do Matinta Pereira - Closely related to Brujas, these monstrous Brazilian dark magic users usually assume the forms of witch-like birds in order to land on the walls and roofs of targeted houses and make loud whistling noises to frighten and disturb the inhabitants. However, they can be trapped by burying a house key in the dirt beneath a pair of scissors, and then placing a rosary atop the scissors. After the witches have been trapped and killed, the area should be swept with a blessed broom. Matlacihua - Producing hypnotic songs and taking on the forms of beautiful human women, these South American spirits dwell in the jungles and forests of the country, and feed on the feelings of fear that they generate in their victims. Stories of their attacks are sometimes used as cautionary tales to discourage men from being unfaithful to their spouses. Matlox - Lurking in the caves and tunnels of North America and Canada, these powerful giants have long claws and fangs adapted for biting through the flesh of human victims. They are capable of deafening nearby intruders using horrendous howls, and can break human bones with ease. Although rarer nowadays due to competition with the wendigo, they were truly a force to be reckoned with when they were first recorded in 1792. Mato - According to the mythology of the North American Lakota people, this powerful spirit usually takes the form of a bear, and presides of medicine, bravery, hatred, love and wounds, and is also held as the patron spirit of fun and mischief. Like most of the other spirits mentioned in the same mythology, it was thought to represent the spirit and power of the animal as which it manifested, but it could also shapeshift into whichever form it desired and appear to anyone. Mau - Considered to be sacred in ancient Egyptian society, these felines were praised for their ability to kill snakes and vermin, and were thus sometimes mummified after death. They were apparently believed to represent the goddess Bast on Earth, and so the punishment for killing one of these cats would be a swift death by lynching. Mauriac - Dwelling in the accumulated soot and volcanic debris underneath mountains, these hairy French faeries resemble lanky goblin-like humanoids with webbed feet, hunched backs, grinning faces and skin covered in soot. They are said to be extremely aggressive, and to band together into small raiding parties to attack travelers. Most information on them comes from a man named Dr. Pierre DuBois, who also mentions almost-identical creatures known as 'Saracens'. Mauvais Airs - Named after the term for 'bad air' in their local Haitian language, these repugnant ghosts are referred to in the traditions of the Voodoo religion of Africa, and are thought to be the returned souls of loup-garous or werewolves. As their name signifies, they are ethereal and transparent in appearance, and are capable of inflicting bizarre sicknesses and ailments on human victims. Mayup Mamman - Traversing the waters of a secluded river known as Mishky Mayu in a canoe, this South American entity takes on the form of a beautiful humanoid woman with fair hair, and is known from the folklore of the Northwestern regions of Argentina. It is considered to be a guardian spirit of the flora and fauna of all rivers in the region, and is said to curse fishermen who catch too many fish, making their canoes sink instantly and unavoidably. Mazikeen - Virtually unknown to modern researchers, these invisible demons are usually only mischievous and mildly annoying, though are sometimes manipulated and controlled into more harmful antics. They are referred to in the Middle-Eastern traditions of the Jewish culture. Popular comic books have resulted in a great deal of confusion as to their relationship to other demons. Mazomba - Lurking in the rivers and lakes of Tanzania and Africa, these predatory fish hunt humans that attempt to swim in their habitats, and use their deadly teeth to rip them apart. There is some speculation that they may have originally been the creations of a wrathful deity of some kind. Mbielu-Mbielu-Mbielu - These aquatic creatures are found in the Congo, and are often mistaken for living stegosaur dinosaurs. In reality, they are actually lungfish that have plank-like structures growing from their backs to signify the maturity of an individual. They are herbivorous, and algae often grows on their back plates. Mbói Tu'ĩ - One of the seven legendary monsters detailed in the South American mythology of the Guaraní people, this strange hybrid serpent is described as an enormous snake with streaked skin, the head of a parrot and a blood-red tongue, and is obviously known to terrifying anyone who looks at it. Considered to be the protector of aquatic life and wetlands, it patrols the swamps where it enjoys being around the humidity and flowers. Its terrifying squawk can be heard from very far away. Mbulu - Feared by the Xhorsas and Zulu people of Africa, these aquatic demons resemble scale-covered humanoids with extremely long tails that appear to have consciousnesses of their own, as well as mouths filled with sharp teeth at their tips. They are always hungry, and usually prey on travelers using tricksterish techniques such as using their victims' fears against them. As long as they can keep their tails under control, these demons can shapeshift to blend into human society. Me’Coubmoosa - Also simply known as 'Bearwalkers', these North American magic users use their supernatural powers to assume either the forms of bears, owls or other animals in order to get close to their intended victims, whereupon they infect them with a painful poison. They are known from the folklore of the Michigan-dwelling Ojibwe and Cree people, and are said to offer their shapeshifting prowess to those who can pay them enough. Weaker people will be knocked unconscious by their presence. Mebeddel - Left in the places of human children that are stolen by the djinn, these Middle-Eastern changelings are designed to cause pain and anguish to the human families, because they will slowly sicken and die, leading to the parents thinking that their children have died. However, if the parents discover that a switch has taken place, they should leave the body of the changeling in a graveyard with an offering for the djinn. The child will be returned, and must be doused with holy water. Mechho Bhoot - Continuing to sustain themselves on the resources offered by bodies of water even after death, these ghostly fishermen are known from the Bengali mythology of India. They sometimes appear to living fishermen and members of waterside communities, begging to be given portions of fish. If they are not given this kindness, they will become threatening and violent. Medford Shmoo - Sighted in 1953 in their namesake North American locale, these bizarre alien entities appear like large peanuts covered in a silky white fur, and usually travel in small groups of up to three individuals. They move by gliding over solid ground, despite their lack of any sort of propulsion or limbs, and are unnervingly fast. Because of their connection with other similar beings, they are regarded as ultraterrestrials. Medicine Wolf - Shamanistic shapeshifting magic users, these North American beings are mentioned in the folklore of native tribes, but are only vaguely described and poorly defined. They are known to be able to heal or bewitch humans close to them, and some modern sightings of mystery canines have been attributed to them. There is speculation that they are related to skinwalkers. Medium - Acting as diplomats and translators between other humans and the spirits of the deceased, these psychically-gifted people are often diagnosed with schizophrenia unless they keep their abilities to themselves or their parents are also mediums, seeing as the gift is hereditary. Ghosts and spirits are naturally drawn to them, suggesting that they may emit a sort of aura visible to these creatures. Not all mediums are able to easily commune with spirits, and some may need certain rituals. Medusa - Originally one of the three gorgon sisters, the propagator of this species was the only one to retain an almost human appearance, save for the serpents that she had in place of hair. Nowadays, the creatures are capable of shapeshifting into normal humans, as well as petrifying people that fall into their gaze at will. Megaprimatus - Representing a modern, relict population of giant apes akin to gigantopithecus, these creatures are found in Asia and Africa. They feed on bamboo and grasses, and are about as intelligent as a gorilla despite their humanoid, upright stance. They are 12-14ft tall, and are thus often called 'the real King Kong'. Mekurabe - Otherworldly undead beings, these Japanese phantoms resemble the shape of a human skull formed by a mass of skeletal remains, and appear to those who are responsible for genocides or mass slaughters. They will rock backwards and forwards with haunting laughter, and eventually drive their victim insane. Meladaemon - Radiating want by their presence and starvation by their touch, these jackal-headed demons are the personification of death by starvation, and delight in the spread of famine by any means, often experimenting with and studying different methods of achieving this goal. Moving through human settlements, they destroy resources and soil livestock to harvest starved human souls. They are arrogant, and will normally work alone despite their shared loyalty to the Horseman of Famine. Melalo - These grotesque Romanian birds appear as two headed ravens with dirty grey feathers, and are supposedly the children of two faeries who were cursed by a wrathful deity. They are vengeful for this, and take on vengeance on humans by causing insanity and delirium in their victims. Those who they have affected will only be able to chatter like a bird, and can be cured by wrapping an amulet with the image of the bicephalic bird around the part of the body that has come into contact wit Melek Taus - Powerful renegade angels, these creatures are spoken of in the religious beliefs of the Yazidi people, and are said to have rejected worship of humans or gods. They have beautiful wings that are made from peacock feathers, and usual blue skin from which they get their nickname of 'peacock angels'. It is said that some of them dwell in the realm of Hell, and that their tears are capable of extinguishing the flames of the place. Melon-Head - Vaguely humanoid in appearance, these ghoulish beings are mentioned in the urban myths and folklore of North American suburbs. It is said that they were once a small group of human children who had a condition called hydrocephalus, and had hideous chemical experiments performed on them in order to get rid of the condition. This process didn't cure their condition, and drove them insane. Melsh Dick - Protecting hazel trees and their ripening fruits from being damaged by children or taken too soon, these English nature faeries are found in hedgerows and temperate forests. Any people that disobey their warnings or damage the trees that they protect will be harshly punished by a bout of stomach cramps or other painful illnesses. Melusina - Often confused with true melusines, which are more dragon-like in appearance, these twin-tailed merfolk were spoken of in the alchemical writings of medieval Europe. They are capable of shapeshifting, and will often use this skill to seduce human men before reverting back to their true form and consuming the hapless victim. Despite this savage behavior, the creature is still depicted in the logo of the Starbucks coffee shop. Melusine - These freshwater spirits are found in European areas such as France and Italy, and seem to resemble terrestrial variants of the more common siren, though do not have nearly the same strength of hypnotic powers. They are sometimes seen with two fish-like tails, though this is less common than them having one. Memitim - Often called 'destroying angels', these beings were created by the Judeo-Christian God to act as executioners and enforcers, and are known to have committed such atrocities as the Egyptian plagues. They use long swords as weapons, and can fly using dirty and disgusting wings. Despite seeming like nothing but a threat to humanity, the beings will also compulsively seek out and slaughter demons. Memphre - With a small head atop a long and flexible neck, this creature is found in the Canadian region of Quebec, and is related to terrestrial dragons. It seems to have evolved a superficial resemblance to prehistoric plesiosaurs, and uses its long neck to snatch seabirds from the air. It appears to be mostly nocturnal, as almost all of the sightings have taken place at night. Men in Black - Resembling humans, these beings seem to originate from a shadowy government agency that aims to suppress and control witnesses of extraterrestrial settlement on Earth. There is some speculation that the entities could be aliens themselves, or possibly even something ultraterrestrial or demonic. They all appear incredibly similar to each other, lacking any sort of hair on their bodies and all wearing identical black suits. Menehune - This race of small people is said to have preternatural abilities, and to be found in deep forests and hidden valleys of Hawaii. They are excellent craftsmen, and many structures attributed to them can still be found dotted around the island. Menninkäinen - Enjoying riddles and providing passersby with harmless challenges, these benevolent faeries are found in the forests of Finland, and can be invoked to perform useful favors and household tasks. Some older stories regard them as the mischievous ghosts of the deceased, though this is not thought to be correct due to their goblin-like appearance and behavior. Menreiki - Resembling traditional Japanese Gigaku masks at first glance, these relatively harmless tsukumogami have the ability to possess anyone who unwisely wears them. Once possessed, these victims will be forced to carry out a representation of the performances that the masks would have originally been used for, involving silent mime and music. They are thought to have originally been created by Prince Shōtoku for a number of royal performances, but then discarded afterwards. Menshen - According to ancient Chinese folktales and religion, these strange faeries stand eternal guard over doors or entrances to temples, and protect the building from entry by evil spirits or demons. Sacrifices to the creatures have been recorded since at least 213BC, and these sacrifices encourage the creatures to seek out benevolent spirits to welcome into the homes that they guard. Mephistopheles - An agent of Lucifer on Earth, this powerful demon was first mentioned in the Faust legend, though has been alluded to in the works of Shakespeare as well. He appears in our world to corrupt innocents and to collect the souls of the previously corrupted. Especially, he is well-known for persuading and tempting dismayed victims into selling their soul to Lucifer. Mephit - Resembling goblins or imps, these little elementals are never to be found in our world without being summoned by magic users, to which they often become begrudging servants. There are several subspecies of the creatures, each of which represent different elements such as Fire or Water. In combat, they are all capable of producing powerful beams of energy associated with their element. The first mention of their existence was in modern fantasy literature. Merbeing - Usually leaving distinctive three-toed footprints, these small aquatic primates are found in sparse populations all across the world. They are covered in long hair that can clump together to look like scales, and often have long quills on their backs and heads. Despite being thought to be distantly related to the deepwater merfolk, these creatures are far more aggressive than their saltwater cousins, and are known to kill livestock. Mercurian - Presumed to be extremely specialised to their barren and harsh environment, these bizarre aliens are found on the planet Mercury, and are somehow capable of respiring in the vacuum of space since Mercury lacks an atmosphere. This trait also means that the planet is boiling hot during the day and freezing at night, and so the creatures are capable of drastically modulating their body temperatures. Because of the inhospitable nature of their planet, they have not been fully studied. Merfolk - Known from all over the world, these creatures are as mysterious as they are beautiful. They were once thought to be the descendants of an ancient lineage of aquatic primates, though this has been disproved due to their magic ability to enchant people that hear their voices. Although they live in the open ocean, they are sometimes seen basking on rocks by the shoreline. Merhorse - First officially sighted in 1554, these distinctive sea monsters are relatives of seals and sea-lions, and are recognizable because of the long manes on the backs of their necks and their strikingly large eyes. They live in deep portions of cold oceans across the entire world, feeding mostly on fish and giant squid. If threatened, they have been known to make alarming hissing sounds. Merihem - Considered to be a powerful demonic ruler that is responsible for releasing all manner of evil spirits and pathogens that cause pestilence and disease, this frightening entity was referred to in the writings of Judaeo-Christian demonology. Because of their similar appearance and abilities, this being is often confused with Abaddon. Merlion - Often mistaken for Leokampoi because of their similar appearances, these creatures are famously to be found in the waters around Singapore, and have since become the national symbol. Instead of having the torso of a lion as most other similar creatures do, these rare animals only have the heads of lions with the bodies of large armored fish. A statue has been built on the coast of the capital city of Singapore to pay tribute to the creatures. Merrow - Found exclusively in the waters surrounding Ireland, these shapeshifting merfolk appear as ugly fish-human hybrids in their true form, but are able to become beautiful humans with use of an enchanted item of clothing. In this form, there are stories of them intermarrying with humans and generating hybrid children with scales and webbed fingers. Female members of the species are most common, though males are rarely seen in small numbers. Mersugkat - Also known as 'Kutdlit' by the surrounding Inuit people, these benevolent faeries are found in Greenland and Canada, where they are known as the helpers of kayakers in the local folklore, protecting and surrounding them while remaining visible only from a distance, and likely unknown to the kayakers themselves. They resemble humanoids with pale skin, small noses and reddish eyes, and live in societies much like those of the human Greenlanders, but with much finer furniture. Meşə Adam - Found in mountainous forests and small houses across Southeastern Europe, these hairy little woodland faeries resemble apes, and emit a sharp odor. They are sometimes known to go undercover in human orchards and farms, wearing discarded clothes to enable them to steal fruit and other foodstuffs. A member of this species was captured and filmed in late 2016. Mesingw - Protecting the flora and fauna of North American forests, this sacred medicine spirit is thought to maintain the balance of nature in the areas where it dwells, and is represented by a mask with one side of the face coloured red and the other coloured black in traditional religious rituals. It is sometimes known to take on human form, riding through the forest on the back of a deer and helping respectful hunters while punishing those who seek to abuse natural resources. Messenger Owl - Seemingly often used as scouts to spy on victims prior to abductions by greys, these birds resemble terrestrial owls, and are sometimes said to be shapeshifting beings in disguise. They are often associated with psychic phenomena, and will appear before abductions to sidetrack victims or check for potential witnesses. There are even reports of greys literally morphing into the birds before their eyes. Messiah - Born from the impregnation of a human vessel with an embryo created by the Judeo-Christian God, these hybrid beings are incredibly powerful and are destined to hunt down demons and other evil spirits. They are capable of performing miracles and manipulating luck around them, as well as communicating with God and angels. Jesus Christ was one of the first known members of this species. Metepec Creature - Although often said to be alien in origin, these creatures are actually an incredibly rare species of cave-dwelling primate that has evolved in Mexico. The first member of the species to be seen by humanity was caught in a rat trap in 2007, and then sent to a biology lab for analysis due to fears that it may be alien. They have forwards-facing eyes, giving them binocular vision, and large incisor teeth for tearing at potential prey. Mezzoloth - Resembling bipedal insect-like humanoids with sharp claws at the ends of their six lanky limbs, these recently-evolved demons wander the lower levels of Hell in search for souls to torment, unable to perform many other actions due to their unintelligence. In combat, they normally use magical weapons but will resort to using their claws in dire situations, which can cut through most non-magical materials with ease. They can only be hurt by enchanted items. Miastores - The wrathful spirits of those who were wrongfully killed, these furious Greek ghosts will haunt those that killed them or were otherwise responsible for their misfortune in life, and will eventually come to act as avengers akin to the Alastor. They usually dwell in Hell, and will wait for the wrongdoer on which they are fixated to arrive in the Afterlife before unleashing their merciless vengeance. There is some confusion as to whether they should be classified as demons or ghosts. Michichibi - Reported from North America in the 18th century, these odd predatory mammals resemble wolves with the claws and distinctive manes of lions, and are thought to represent relic populations of animals from before cats and dogs split off from a common ancestor. They are considerably rarer now, though there livestock disappearances are sometimes attributed to them. Michigan Dogman - Created inadvertently in 1987 when a famous singer published a song for April Fools' Day regarding a fictitious legend of a werewolf-like creature in the woods around his North American home state. People didn't realize that the legend was not based on real reports, and the monstrous hybrid entity eventually came to life as a savage tulpa. Michipichi - Described in the folklore of the Cree Native Americans, these aquatic chimeras live along the estuary of the Saint Lawrence River where they prey on humans, especially young and unwary children playing on the banks. They are said to have large and flat tails like those of beavers, 18ft-long tigers' bodies and oversized heads with long fangs. Some researchers have suggested that they are closely related to the Mishipeshu because of their similar appearances and names. Mictlāntēcutli - A slender and terrifying being, this ancient Mayan deity is usually confined to the very deepest regions of the Underworld, though is sometimes summoned by cult-like worship in temples dedicated to him, where cannibalistic rituals take place. He resembles a skeletal figure wearing some kind of a hat, and has patterns representing human eyes covering his body. Although he sometimes functions akin to a reaper, he is also known to steal away children and others, making them die bef Miengu - African merfolk, these creatures swim in the rivers and lakes of the Cameroon, where they are worshipped by the local villagers because they believe that they bring good luck. They can affect the weather and offer protection from plagues, and as such worship of and sacrifices to the creatures are still commonplace in the region today. Migas - Freshwater octopuses, these tentacled creatures hide on the beds of Congolese rivers using their flat bodies as camouflage. They wait for swimming animals to pass overhead, and then suddenly grab them using their tentacles. Although they are not large enough to eat humans, there are some stories of people being snatched and accidentally drowned by the African creatures. Mi-Go - Despite resembling dragons or demons, these creatures are actually closer to fungus in their ancestry, and hail from a dimension parallel to our own. They appear as reddish, crab-like monsters with short antennae and several sets of armored limbs. The first mention of their existence was in the works of HP Lovecraft. Mihirung Paringmal - Found in Western Australia, these avian beings live in small groups around swamps and marshes, and let out bellowing calls to communicate with each other. They appear to be rather intelligent, and have been observed using tools like those used by primates. Unlike other avians, they have long and scaly tails with which they paddle through water. Mihirung Paringmal - Thought to be related to the prehistoric terror birds, these enormous flightless carnivores are attested to in the local folklore and mythology of the Australian Aboriginal people. They are very rare and almost extinct nowadays, and most of the information about their appearance comes from rock paintings situated around Queensland. Mikoshi Nyūdō - Appearing to lone travelers on isolated roads or bridges late at night, these terrifying Japanese shapeshifters assume the forms of harmless-seeming priests or monks, but will grow to immense sizes and contort into animalistic and grotesque shapes as soon as they are observed. If victims try to run away, they will be crushed, and the same will happen if they ignore the monsters. The only way to survive an encounter is by looking from their heads down to their feet, thus disabling their growing ablities. Milcham - Recorded as the only animals that didn't consume the Forbidden Fruit in the Garden of Eden according to Jewish Rabbinical texts, these birds were rewarded with immortality by the Judaeo-Christian God for their resistance of Eve's temptation. They are now contained in a walled city built by God to protect them from sin, where they are consumed by fire every thousand years in order to be born anew, much like the more common Phoenix, to which they are related. Mill Lake Monster - First reported in 1959 from its namesake lake in the North American state of Ohio, this bizarre entity resembles a 7ft tall humanoid with webbed feet and a complete lack of arms. It’s strange and ostensibly alien appearance brings to mind the Canvey Island Monster and the Fresno Nightcrawlers, and its webbed footprints are still occasionally found on the muddy banks of the lake. Some have named it as an ultraterrestrial. Mill Race Monster - Terrorising all those that visited a certain park in its namesake North American locale throughout 1974, this unique hairy humanoid is thought to be related to merbeings like the Letiche because of its greenish fur and large orange eyes, as well as the apparent mix of scales and fur that cover its body. It is aggressive, and is known to have attacked cars that were parked in the area, attempting to break through their windshields using its enormous fangs and claws. Despite the furor it caused, it vanished as quickly as it arrived. Millalobo - Born from the unnatural unison of a sea lion and a human woman, this golden-furred creature resembles a monstrous humanoid with the hind-quarters of a large pinniped, and is believed to have a degree of psychic control over merfolk and other aquatic supernatural beings in its vicinity. It was first mentioned in the Chilean mythology of Chiloé Archipelago, in which it was said to have been chosen by a powerful aquatic deity to govern the sentient beings of the sea. Millennium Humanoid - Often associated with UFOs, these blue-furred winged humanoids were seen in Chile during 1999 and 2000, when they were reported to fight and kill dogs and local livestock. They are said to have drained the blood of these prey items, and are thus sometimes compared to the chupacabra. Their faces were described as similar to those of owls, with glowing yellow eyes, and their wings were supposedly leathery like those of bats. Mimi - Australian faeries, these thin creatures are known in the folklore of the Aboriginal people to have taught natives how to use fire and hunt for food. They are mostly peaceful today, though can become malicious and harmful if they are bothered. Due to expansion of human populations, the secretive beings have become noticeably rarer in today's world, and have taken to hiding in rock crevices to avoid being snapped in half by strong gusts of wind. Mimic - Resembling slimey creatures in their true form, these beasts can shapeshift into any inanimate objects, though often choose chests or cupboards. They will remain still until someone comes to put something inside them, and then they will open their gaping mouths and swallow their victims whole. Although they are thought to have silently existed for a fairly long time, they were brought into public awareness by their inclusion in modern fantasy fiction. Mimick Dog - Dwelling in the Middle East according to medieval texts, these small simian creatures are known to have the unique ability to copy any human behaviors or feats that they witness. For this reason, they are highly sought after by circus performers and animal trainers, and have been known to perform tricks such as dancing to music and even waiting on tables. They resemble hybrids of monkeys and hedgehogs, and have a slightly canine posture when moving on four legs. Min Min Light - Sighted in their namesake area of Australia, these bizarre glowing orbs are different to other will-o-the-wisps because of their extreme maneuverability, having been reported to dodge bullets and chase witnesses at speeds of up to 200mph. Stories of the beings date back to Aboriginal tribes, and they are sometimes said to attract witnesses' attention and then attempt to lead them off to an unknown fate. Minata-Karaia - Likely closely related to the kappa and tokoloshe due to the hollow openings in the tops of their heads present in the males of the species, these giant humanoids roam the jungles of Brazil and South America. Structures resembling coconuts grow around their joints and in their armpits, which are always knocking against their bodies and creating a large amount of noise. They have been known to pick these fruits, crack them against their heads and then eat them. Mind Flayer - Also known as 'illithids', these hideous aberrations resemble humanoids with cephalopod-like faces, and are renowned for their natural psychic and telepathic abilities, which they use to enslave and subjugate other species. They get their name from their diet of the brains of other sapient species, which they must consume in order to survive, thus absorbing the emotions, memories and personalities of their victims. Mind Flayers are usually accompanied by ogres and grimlocks. Mineral Point Vampire - Strikingly reminiscent of Spring-Heeled Jack, this terrifying phantom attacker was seen in its namesake North American area between 1981 and 2004, and resembled a pale humanoid wearing a long cloak. It was capable of taking supernaturally long leaps, and was chased by police forces on multiple occasions before evading capture by jumping up a vertical surface. Minga Bengale - Believed to have taught mankind how to make nets and other hunting weapons, this ancient African deity is known in the folklore of several indigenous tribes, though has become more obscure nowadays. He is thought to sometimes still manifest to modern hunters in the African wilderness, breaking their weapons and forcing them to use nets and spears instead. Minhocão - Existing deep below the forests of South America, these enormous creatures are either giant worms or related to legless lizards, and are described as having serpentine bodies with pig-like snouts and two long tendrils on their heads, and are known to snatch livestock such as pigs and cattle from the surface. They mostly subterranean, and some houses have collapsed due to their destructive burrowing. However, they are also semi-aquatic, and are most active during rainy seasons. Minhocão - Resembling a massive earthworm, this creature is actually a reptile closely related to legless lizards and snakes. It spends most of its time under the ground in South America, though has been known to sometimes snatch unlucky prey that walk above it. Minio - Dragging unwary travelers below the surface of North American lakes, these relatives of the Lake Worth monster are known from the folklore of several native tribes. They are covered in thick hair and have long, goat-like horns, and are found in most deep lagoons across their home country. Some researchers think that they are related to merbeings. Miniwashitu - Said to control the breakup of ice at the end of the Winter months in North America, these bizarre bipedal creatures resemble single-eyed bison with scaly skin akin to that of crocodiles. They are usually found in rivers and lakes across the state of Missouri. Their hair is thick and red, and all those that see them are said to be driven insane, soon dying of heart palpitations. Minnesota Iceman - First discovered because of a frozen individual being exhibited in North American sideshows, these hairy humanoids are sometimes said to represent the missing link between humans and sasquatches. The first specimen was discovered in Siberia in the 1960s, and other individuals of the species have been seen in that area since. They are intelligent creatures, though are not hostile to humans. Minoan Griffin - As the rarest variety of griffin in the world, these creatures are found in the dry forests of Greece. They are thought to have been more common in ancient Crete, where they apparently chose select people to interact with, almost as if they domesticated themselves. They have a much more slender frame than most griffins, and hunt by chasing down mid-sized animals and tearing at their throats with their beaks. Minokawa - Said to cause solar eclipses in the legends of the Philippines region, these massive birds are sometimes estimated to be as large as a small island. Their feathers are metallic and their eyes are sometimes referred to as mirrors, which has led some to believe that they may be giant relatives of the alicanto. During eclipses, Filipino tradition dictates that people must make loud noises to startle the birds, or else Earth might be consumed next. Minotaur - Confined in an unsolvable Labyrinth in Crete by the ancient Greek Daedalus, the first individual of this species was created from the unison of Pasiphaë and a bull with which she fell in love, and was a cannibalistic monster to which human sacrifices would be regularly offered. A hero named Theseus was eventually sent into the Labyrinth, and with the help of Ariadne he was able to kill the beast and escape from the Labyrinth. However, the hybrid's descendants still exist. Minotaur - Originating from ancient Crete, these demonic creatures are often summoned by dark magic users to act as guardians. They will lie dormant until someone intrudes on their territory, and then they will kill and eat them viciously, though they will also need human sacrifice in order to remain in our world. Miqqiayuuq - Seemingly faceless aberrations covered in thick hair, these enormous merfolk lurk in the rivers and lakes of Canada according to Inuit folklore, and are known to be malicious and mischievous. They are said to wait for buckets to be lowered into the water, before tangling the ropes and preventing water from being drawn. Their appearance suggests a relation with the Ningen. Mirii Dog - Emerging from the deep lakes around Australia, these strange and terrifying predators are known from the folklore of the Aboriginal culture, and are said to grow in size when humans look at them. They are originally rather small creatures, but become formidable monsters by the time they reach their prey. If they are not observed, they will eventually shrink and disappear. Mirrored Men - These creatures have recently been reported from rural areas in North America, they will cause their victims to 'lose time' when they make eye contact, and it is also currently unknown how to kill them. They move in exactly the same steps and mannerisms as each other, from which they get their name, and seem to have frog-like faces. It is rumored that speaking their name or telling their story to others may summon the beings, though this is currently unconfirmed. Mishiginebig - Mentioned in the Algonquin folklore of North America and Canada, these enormous horned serpents dwell in lakes and rivers, and are known to lunge at passersby and eat humans. They are the sworn enemies of thunderbirds, and these more powerful creatures are commonly seen to kill the massive serpents using lightning bolts. This hatred between birds and serpents is seen all throughout world folklore, with figures such as Garuda and the Nāga. Mishipeshu - This panther-like deity is known from Native American folklore, and dwells particularly in and around the Lake Superior area, where it protects a large amount of copper. It is capable of possessing people using the water, moving like a waterborne disease, and its victims can only be cured using the copper from the lake. Miskena - Dwelling in Lake Winnipeg, this enormous serpentine monster is regarded as the Chief of Fish in the mythology of the local Native American people, and it is said to resemble a serpent with the armour and forequarters of a sturgeon. It is thought to be related to a monster found in the same lake in the modern day, which is now called Manipogo. While Manipogo is a distinct species, the two monsters are often conflated by modern witnesses. Missourian Bloodsucker - Thought to be closely related to chupacabras and Nandi bears, these baboon-like predators were first documented in November of 2000 after a bow-hunter followed a trail of exsanguinated deer carcasses and was confronted with a 3ft-tall dark shape. He described the beast as being covered in dark and matted hair with a face much like that of a baboon, and with eyes slightly larger than a human's. The creature ran up a hill and out of sight after the encounter. Mist - Sometimes visible in photographs taken of haunted locations, these ghostly beings are also known as 'Vapours' or 'Ghost Mists' for obvious reasons, and are completely without humanoid physical form, instead manifesting as shapeless clouds of smoke or gas. In cases when they have become visible to the naked eye, they are described as floating several feet above the ground, either hovering completely stationary or moving with great speed and precision, making a distinctive swirling pattern. Mitchell Harlequin - Thought to be some sort of demon, this strange entity is known to appear to young children early in their childhood and act akin to an imaginary friend. It does this through dancing around their house, following them to various locations and telling them stories. However, when the child rejects the creature's input, its interactions become malevolent and frightening in nature. With the exception of some cases, the being vanishes by the time the child reaches adulthood. Mite - Nimble and deadly, these goblin-like creatures are found in mountainous areas with cold climates, where they set intricate traps for prey such as reindeer. They live in large communal nests underneath mountains, surrounded by enormous labyrinthine tunnel systems. Unlike goblins, they are more capable of using magic, though seem to be less willing to play tricks and far more inclined to kill humans for fun. The first mention of their existence came in modern fantasy literature. Mixoparthenos - To be found in the waters of the Black Sea, these double-tailed merfolk were often spoken about in the mythology of the ancient Greeks, but have since become confused with the melusina in modern times. They resemble human women from the waist up, but then have two long and slimy fish tails. The tails are so long that they can be used as prehensile limbs. Mizuchi - Considered to be related to the Jiaolong and other aquatic Asian dragons, these giant Japanese reptiles are sometimes considered to be river deities or at least entities closely related to gods, but are also known for spitting extremely deadly venom and killing passersby. There are several stories of would-be human victims tricking the dragons into not killing them by asking them to prove their power by sinking calabashes, which are gourd-like vegetables. It is unknown why this works. Mizuchi - Considered to be related to the Jiaolong and other aquatic Asian dragons, these giant Japanese reptiles are sometimes considered to be river deities or at least entities closely related to gods, but are also known for spitting extremely deadly venom and killing passersby. There are several stories of would-be human victims tricking the dragons into not killing them by asking them to prove their power by sinking calabashes, which are gourd-like vegetables. It is unknown why this works. M'Kuoo M'Bemboo - Thought to be related to prehistoric ceratopsian dinosaurs, these vaguely crocodilian African creatures are truly massive, with their heads alone being the size of full-grown hippopotamuses. These heads are described as resembling those of seals but 'flattened from above to below', and this is likely a reference to the distinctive frill present on ceratopsians. They live in shallow rivers and underwater caves, and are known to attack hippos due to territorial behaviour. Mlokowy Smij - Soaring high above the Earth as fiery blazes, these benevolent dragons are known from German folklore, in which they are also referred to as 'milk dragons' because of their kind behavior of bringing milk and dairy products to local villages. They are said to favor certain barns and farms in these villages, and are often mistaken for meteors or comets when observed from ground level. Some have suggested that they may be angelic in origin. Mlularuka - Found high up in the tree canopies of Tanzania, these gliding canids have membranes between their legs that enables them to gracefully leap from tree to tree. Despite their jackal-like appearance, they are not hostile to humans, and are much more commonly known for raiding mango and pomegranate orchards under the cover of night. Mnevis - One of the many physical forms taken on by the sun god known as Ra, this Ancient Egyptian creature resembles a large black bull with the glowing sun disk between its horns, and was considered to be highly sacred in Egyptian culture. It was worshipped at Heliopolis, where it was said to act as an oracle, seeing as its movements were believed to be determined by divine influence. When a bull representing Mnevis died, it would be embalmed and placed in a large necropolis. Mngwa - Vicious cats, these lion-sized predators are known from the grasslands of Africa and Tanzania, where they are known to brutally attack and maul any humans that they can find. Sightings of the creatures by Western explorers first began in the early 1900s, prompting several British scientific journals to discuss the creature's possible existence. There is some speculation that a number of attacks attributed to the Nandi bear may have actually been the work of these cats. Moa - Although supposed to have been extinct since at least the 1400s, these large birds have been repeatedly seen in New Zealand, apparently still alive. They were first reported by a painter in the year 1840, and a supposed photograph of one of the cryptic animals was taken in 2004. Moalgewanke - Descendants of prehistoric aquatic apes, these Australian primates are famous for the loud bellowing roars they produce. They have long orange fur on their torsos, and have smooth and blubbery flesh on their dolphin-like tails. Because of this appearance, they are sometimes mistaken for true merfolk, by which they are used as pets and hunting companions. Moddey Dhoo - Phantom black dogs, these creatures are found on the Isle of Man, where they haunt areas such as castles or church graveyards. It is not known if they are to be considered malevolent, though their burning red eyes suggest that they may be demonic in origin. Moha Moha - Resembling a large crocodile with the tail of a fish and the shell of a turtle, this bizarre hybrid monster is found in the waters around Australia, and is recorded to have attacked villages in the local folklore. It was first sighted by a modern explorer in 1890, and has since been given an official scientific name. Mohan - Related to satyrs and other hairy humanoids, these creatures are to be found on rocky coastlines of Central America, and are known to kidnap women and attempt to seduce them. They are feared by those who are forced to work close to secluded sources of water, because they are afraid of being kidnapped or assaulted. There are noticeable discrepancies in the physical descriptions of this creature, suggesting a shapeshifting capability. Mohrg - Formed from the resurrected corpse of a person who has taken many human lives, these undead creatures resemble skeletal humanoids with exposed intestines and long, bladed tongues. They retain their memories and identity, as well as a delight in killing lone and defenseless victims. Some individuals of the species are literally skeletons with animated intestines and tongues. Despite their emaciated appearance, they are incredibly strong, and can paralyse prey using their venomous tongues. Mokèlé-Mbèmbé - Lurking in the waters of the Congo Basin, this enormous reptile mimics the long-extinct sauropod dinosaurs in its appearance, and is highly aggressive towards both humans and animals that invade its territory, despite being a herbivore. Like most reptiles, it carries salmonella bacteria in its flesh, which has led to myths developing that its meat is cursed, and so locals refuse to hunt it. Moko Jumbie - Although originally the descendants of a West African deity called Moko, these protective spirits have since been transferred over to various islands throughout the Caribbean where they are often represented by performers atop stilts in festivals and parades. They are extremely tall, appearing as humanoids with stilt-like legs, and are thus able to see danger from a long distance away. Using this ability, they are said to protect villages and their inhabitants from evil. Mokoi - Undead monsters, these beasts are born from the souls of those who used dark and demonic magic in life, and are known from the folklore of the Australian Aboriginals. They carry vicious weapons such as clubs and bows, and use these to kill sorcerers and create fatal accidents. As well as this, they are sometimes known to kidnap and eat children overnight. Mola - Created through the infection of a human woman by an aerial parasitic creature known as a Millet, these Spanish-Catalan aberrations resemble warped humanoids with innumerable limbs, heads and body parts, and will run away from their human host as soon as they are born. Alongside them, a skinny baby will also be born, which will die almost immediately. Molas bring misery and chaos wherever they go, and must be exterminated by burning them in an oven, which must then be destroyed. Mole Person - Dwelling underneath the cities of North America in networks of subway tunnels and sewers, these half-civilized monsters are thought to have originally been homeless people that evolved to live in complete darkness. Their society is structured in tribes with complex hierarchies of elected officials, and they are known to capture and eat any humans that trespass on their territory. They are much rarer than some horror novels may have people believe. Moloch - Known since Biblical times, this horned deity is often said to be a demon, and is worshipped by cults on the coast of the East Mediterranean. These sorts of cults were much more common in ancient times, when they would perform child sacrifice rituals by throwing their victims into flaming pits. This practice is not known to occur today, and thus the power and sanity of the being has suffered. Mona Lisa - First discovered in 1976, this ancient alien civilization is mostly known from ruined buildings and cities found on the surface of Earth's moon, and one member of the species has been captured. It is from this individual that the beings get their name, and the subject appears to either be deceased or hibernating. They resemble dark-skinned humanoids with large lips and three eyes. Monaciello - Resembling diminutive monks or priests, these tiny faeries are related to brownies and other household helpers, and are known to use networks of tunnels under Italian cities to give out gifts to those who need it most. Despite their kindness to the needy, they have been known to play harmless mischief and annoying pranks on those who are cruel or corrupt. Moñai - Large serpents, these South American reptiles feed on birds that they snatch out of the sky from their arboreal lairs. They have horn-like structures above their eyes, that act like antennae to sense movement in the air around them, which allows them to not have to rely on their sight. These horns can also emit brightly-colored bursts of light, which are used to hypnotize potential prey. Mondjoli-Mbembe - Related to the kappa, these paranormal beings dwell in the swamps and marshes of Africa, and feed on fish and aquatic plants. They resemble merfolk with the heads of large birds, and are capable of teleporting large distances. When they kill fish, they allow fishermen to take half of their catch, but if they take more than they are allowed, the monsters will take revenge and the fishermen will disappear without a trace. Monkey Trap Tree - Using their long tentacles and wide leaves to trap and ensnare small primates and humanoids, these Brazilian carnivorous trees release a scent that entices their victims. They take roughly three days to devour the prey items that they trap, and then drop their bones on the ground below them. Monocerus - A common subspecies of unicorn, these African creatures differ from their European counterparts in the darker color and increased length of their forehead horn. Although usually docile, they do display some territorial behavior, and are known to gore the stomachs of elephants that enter their vicinity. There is some speculation that they may be more closely related to rhinoceroses than unicorns, though this is unconfirmed. Monolycum - With arching backs covered in thick and bushy fur, these Greek beasts are thought to represent hybrids of wolves and hyenas, and are solitary animals rather than pack hunters. They do not seem to be afraid of humans, and are willing to wander into their farmlands and villages to raid supplies and kill livestock. Monster of Ravenna - Born from the unison of a nun and a friar in its namesake Italian city, this bizarre and deformed humanoid was described as having either avian or bat-like wings, a single horn growing on its forehead and an eye situated on its right knee. Eventually the descriptions of its features changed to instead imply that it only had a single leg which was feathered like that of a bird. It was taken as an omen of the Battle of Ravenna's outcome, and was abandoned soon after birth. Montauk Monster - Relatives of the common raccoon, these recently-evolved creatures have thick skin and flipper-like limbs that enable them to live a semi-aquatic lifestyle. They dive to the bottom of shallow portions of the Atlantic Ocean, and use their snouts that have become sheathed in keratinous material to crack open shellfish. Recently, the corpse of one of these creatures washed up on the coast of its namesake North American area, and caused considerable panic. Monuca - Draining blood from lambs and livestock as well as feeding on large quantities of insects, these destructive Spanish predators are thought to be supernatural hybrids of cats and martens, that are born every 11 years. They are born blind and colorless, though will wander around their environment until they develop their sight and their impressive colors. After this, they will attempt to kill the two animals from which they were born. Mo'o - Although usually resembling enormous black lizards with sharp scales, these Hawaiian spirits are capable of shapeshifting into a large number of forms including those of dragons and seductive human females. They are seen as guardians of caves and deep lakes in the local folklore, and offerings of flowers or sticks will be made to the creatures before going swimming in the water. Apparently, the remains of the creatures become rocky structures such as stalagmites after their death. Mook - Small and mischievous, these futuristic faeries are often found accompanying Grey or Yodha aliens, and are capable of moving at extreme speeds. They usually wear bizarre clothing similar to Earthly overalls, and have long noses resembling those of modern anteaters. Very little is known about their history. Mooldabbie - Found in Encounter Bay of South Australia and the Murray River in the same country, this enormous evil spirit is described (usually with difficulty) as taking the form of a giant starfish, and is sometimes conflated with the Bunyip because of their shared nationality and river habitat. This confusion is thought to have come from the writings of an explorer named George French Angus, who misidentified a Mooldabbie as a Bunyip from a story he was told sometime before 1847. Moon Rabbit - Said to have originally been placed in the celestial object by a kindly Asian deity, this strange entity is known from multiple cultures all across the world, including that of the Native Americans and the Japanese. The being itself appears to be rather intelligent, and is often seen crafting potions and elixirs using a pestle and mortar. It is not often seen nowadays, suggesting that some other being or deity may have taken its place. Moonbeast - Lurking on the forests of an alternative Moon that can be accessed through dreams, these alien beasts resemble Earthly trolls, and are well-known for trading slaves and rubies with other civilizations. These rubies are traded in return for innocent prisoners that are forced into slavery. They have been known to travel between Earth and the Moon using large black flying vehicles. Mooncalf - Born as the children of witches or warlocks, or simply from human foetuses mutated by the dark magical influences of the Moon, these hideous and deformed humanoids have a vast range of appearances and mannerisms among their species, with some of them being pale and 'beauteous', but others being covered in hair or scales and having primitive levels of intelligence. Non-human animals can also give birth to mooncalves if they are affected by dark magic. They are known from English myth. Moon-Eyed People - These pale skinned, large-eyed beings are said to have resided in the Appalachian area of North America since long before the Cherokee arrived. They have abnormally wide and white eyes, which they use to see in the dark when hunting nocturnal prey. Nowadays, their societies have been pushed underground by human competition. Moongazer - Found in the forests of South America and the Caribbean, these horrific boogeymen stand roughly 40ft and 2ft wide, and often lurk by the sides of roads, camouflaging themselves among trees using their spindly bodies. They will lash out and grab humans that either accidentally walk between their legs or simply move too close to them. Because of these traits, some researchers have noticed similarities to Slenderman. Moongazer - Found in the forests of South America and the Caribbean, these horrific bogeymen stand roughly 40ft and 2ft wide, and often lurk by the sides of roads, camouflaging themselves among trees using their spindly bodies. They will lash out and grab humans that either accidentally walk between their legs or simply move too close to them. Because of these traits, some researchers have noticed similarities to Slenderman. Moowis - Formed from the raw materials of the Earth, such as foliage and snow, these beautiful North American constructs act as ferocious guards to those that they are assigned to by their creators. There have been multiple cases of these people falling in love with the beings, before experiencing anguish as the temporary warriors melt away into nothingness when exposed to the Sun. Mopaditi - According to Australian Aboriginal religion, when people die they can sometimes choose to stay on Earth as undead, forming their own tribes and carrying on with their actions as if they were alive. They perform burial rituals for members of the tribes to which they belonged when they were alive, but have sometimes been known to lead foolish travelers astray into the Outback, and curse them with wasting diseases. Their arrival is usually heralded by large flocks of black cockatoos. Mòrag - Found in Loch Morar, this creature is thought to represent a smaller species of the same group as the Loch Ness Monster. Reports of this creature date back to 1887, and it is described as having rough skin, a long neck and several humps on its back. It is not thought to be hostile, though has been seen to behave defensively over its territory. Morangos com Açúcar Virus - Only targeting young children across Portugal, this terrifying tulpa manifests as a result of mass hysteria generated from an episode of a popular soap opera, in which a life-threatening disease ravages a school. Symptoms of the supernatural infection include dizziness, rashes and shortness of breath. Outbreaks of this bizarre pathogen usually increase in severity extremely quickly before vanishing completely. Morgawr - This enormous creature was seen off the coast of Cornwall, and was blamed for bringing bad weather and lack of fish. There is speculation that this beast was awoken during World War II by torpedoes from submarines. Morgen - Seducing unwary men and luring them to watery deaths with their striking beauty, these Welsh merfolk are found in luxurious underwater cities fashioned from gold and crystal. They appear eternally young, and are capable of causing floods and intense natural disasters to assault potential human aggressors. Some fishermen have been known to adopt infant morgen, only for them to vanish into the water later in life. Moribund - Mentioned in the folklore of France and England, these bizarre undead vampires are born when a human is killed by a werewolf and is not properly buried and disposed of. They are related to Revenants, and their name has now become an adjective to mean 'in a state of dying'. Mörkö - Resembling frightening masses of shadows or frigid darkness, these terrifying boogeymen are known from Finland and Sweden, and are sometimes called 'Grokes' because of their famous inclusion in the fictional Moomin stories. Much like the creatures mentioned in this modern fiction, they are slow-moving predators that can freeze anything around them, and leave trails of ice and frost behind them as they glide over the ground. They live in mountainous regions where they are not often seen. Mormo - This dark spirit is said to follow the ancient Greek goddess Hecate, and to target children whom she deemed to be naughty. It is often said to look like a female figure with fangs and a skeletal face, and there is some speculation that it may be related to the Laestrygonians. This comes from the writings of an ancient Byzantine author, who suggests that the creature may be stealing children as revenge for the queen of the Laestrygonians. Mormolyceion - Thought by some scholars to be demonic in nature, these shapeshifting beings resemble werewolves, and were regarded as bogeymen in ancient Greek culture. They are thought to have originally been born from the anguished souls of mothers who had their children stolen from them, and who became monsters through their grieving madness, stealing the children of others as revenge. Moroi - Romanian vampires, these creatures are born from the unholy unison of a human and a nosferatu, and will draw psychic energy from living people in order to sustain themselves. They are extremely ugly and are covered in hair, and are capable of resurrecting as a powerful ghost or demon after death. Using their shapeshifting capabilities, they are able to transform into bears. Morragh - Vicious creatures, these beasts come from Ireland, and feed on feelings of rage among humans and other monsters. They use this ability to gain incredible strength when they are near to sources of anger and hatred. Due to this, they are often hired by powerful beings to act as hitmen or assassins. Morrígan - Spoken of in Irish legends, this dark goddess haunts battlefields in the form of a large crow or raven, and will reap the souls of dying soldiers. She is able to predict the deaths of her victims, and will often appear to them in violent nightmares beforehand, in which she is seen washing their bloody armor. Mōryō - Ghoulish merbeings, these semi-aquatic Japanese spirits resemble diminutive hairy beings with long ears and fangs, and are often observed to dig up corpses from graveyards and cemeteries to feast on the rotting innards. They are capable using magic to shapeshift into human forms, and often disguise themselves as funeral attendants or loyal servants for the sick or dying. Oddly, they are frightened of tigers and oak trees, and so the aforementioned trees are often planted by graves. Mosekone - Sometimes referred to as hybrids of trolls and elves, these Danish faeries are found in swamps and bogs, where they brew various potions and magic-imbued liquids. Their hair is long and green, and their clothes are bedraggled. They are incredibly good at remaining camouflaged, and some hunters even doubt their existence. Moselantja - Dwelling in African rivers and lakes, these monstrous aquatic humanoids resemble reptilian beings with pointed ears and extremely long tails, which they can use to fish for prey in the water around them. They approach those who walk along riverbanks alone, and whisper lies and rumours into their ears using mouths at the ends of their tails, before demanding food and clothing if they are seen by their victims. If the victims refuse to hand over their property, they will be devoured immediately. Moskitto - These giant insects live in the swamps of Wisconsin and Minnesota, and were first spoken of in Lumberjack folklore during the 19th century. They resemble mosquitoes, and fly in a manner similar to a large bird of prey. Because of this nature, and their relation to mosquitoes, they are known to spread virulent diseases to those they attack. Mosquito Man - Grotesque shapeshifters found in North America and Canada, these hideous vampiric creatures usually resemble normal humans, but have proboscis-like instruments concealed within their mouths which they can use to suck the blood or brains out of human victims. They use their shapeshifting abilities to gain the trust of families or groups of people, with the ultimate intention of feasting on their brains. According to a Haida tale, they can be drowned if they are trapped underwater. Moșul - Sometimes regarded as one of the first sapient humans, living before even some deities, this incredibly powerful entity resembles a wise and ancient man, and represents eternal life in Romanian religion. It is a symbol of prosperity and knowledge, and some people have suggested that it may be in alliance with an ancient god such as Zeus. Motelo Mama - Large enough to host entire ecosystems on their shelled backs, these enormous Chilean turtles are sometimes said to be supernatural in origin, and to be able to cause earthquakes with their movement. They are regarded as the progenitors of all other turtles and tortoises in local religion, and are said to be practically immortal unless deliberately killed. Mothman - After a spate of sightings in West Virginia during the 1960s, this winged creature became immortalized in legend as a prophet of impending disaster. It is able to fly at incredible speeds without beating its wings, and has two glowing red eyes that create a feeling of despair in those that look at them. It is thought to be angelic in origin, and possibly even related to Azrael, the angel of death. Mount Pleasant Hex - First recorded at its namesake North American school in Mississippi after fifteen students suddenly fell to the ground and started to writhe in pain in 1976, this phantom pathogen was thought by school officials and police to be something to do with illicit drug use, but no evidence was available to suggest this. Instead, the students came to the conclusion that there was some kind of curse behind the events, and many of them stayed home to avoid being 'hexed'. Mountain Boomer - Roughly 5 to 6ft tall, these large reptiles are found in the arid deserts of North American areas such as Texas, and are often compared to mid-sized dinosaurs. They are named after the terrifyingly loud booming sounds that they emit, which echo for miles and sound like rolling thunder. Their scaly skin is greenish or brown, and they are said to have been observed eating road kill, though are said to rapidly flee when humans come close to them. Mountain Devil - In July of 1918, a prospector was attacked in his house at Mount St. Helens by a group of these hairy humanoid creatures, which are said to be known in local North American mythology as a race of people between humans and animals, though this folkloric artifact has not been followed up. The attack was reported in the 16th July edition of the Seattle Times, and the creatures were described as having the ability to become completely invisible in the article. Mouros - Dwelling deep underground across Portugal and Europe, these diminutive faeries are said to have originally lived above ground, but to have been forced into their subterranean home upon the arrival of humans. They spend most of their time mining for gems and gold, but are sometimes seen on the surface when they steal food from local human villages. Because of the nature of their lifestyle, they often come into conflict with the cuélebre. Mówáng - Commanding extensive legions of Yāoguài demons, these shapeshifting Chinese creatures are found in the depths of Hell, but are sometimes found in intricate mountainous palaces. They resemble hybrids of demons or fallen angels and vicious animals such as primates or foxes. Their armies usually include rakshasas and yaksha, and sometimes even onis. Mowing-Devil - Burning crop-circles into the ground wherever they go, these bizarre and frightening beings are thought to either be alien, ultraterrestrial or demonic in origin, and are first spoken of in English literature from 1678, in which a disgruntled farmer swears that he would rather the devil mowed his fields. That night, the fields were seen to be covered in unholy flame, and the crops were neatly cut down into intricate shapes come the morning. Mratinyak - Enormous demonic roosters, these terrifying entities are described as resembling giant chickens with large eyes and thick black feathers, and are known to kill hens and roosters in Bulgarian households. In a traditional Bulgarian patriarchal society, women are not allowed to kill animals, but between November 11th and November 14th they are allowed to ritualistically kill a rooster over the threshhold of their houses as an offering to the demons, and thus a protective rite. M-Ska-Gwe-Demoos - Producing mournful weeping sounds from deep swamps and bogs, these North American bogeymen resemble hags or banshees clothed entirely in rotting plants and with moss in place of hair. Anyone who attempts to follow the sounds of their crying will become lost in the swamps and will eventually be drowned and eaten by the hideous creatures. Mu - Dwelling in dark underwater caves and beach caverns across Hawaii, these diminutive goblin-like vampires hide in the shadows during the daytime, but will emerge to drag victims underwater at night. They are well-known for their incredibly wide mouths that stretch across their entire faces like those of deep-sea fish, and hunt in swarms, draining human bodies of all their fluids in mere minutes. Muc-Sheilche - Found in Loch Maree and its surrounding Scottish lochs, this nebulous aquatic entity is thought to be related to the Loch Ness Monster and other lake monsters, but may be slightly different in appearance due to its name literally translating as 'Turtle-Pig'. In the mid-1800s a man named Mr Banks attempted to drain the loch to find the monster, and even tried to poison it using quicklime, all without success. Some researchers suggest that it is a large eel. Muhlambela - Resembling serpentine dragons with crested heads and feathers akin to those of a cockatrice, these South African serpents lurk in the treetops and canopies of mountainous forests. They are capable of making peculiar bleating sounds like those of goats, and use this ability to lure unwary farmers to their locations. In order to kill their victims, they bite large holes in the backs of their skulls. Muhnochwa - Found in the suburbs of the Indian area of Uttar Pradesh, these terrifying phantom attackers resemble monstrous insects or mechanical drones with bright red and green lights attached to them, and are sometimes referred to as 'face scratchers' because of the vicious claws that are attached to their six limbs. They usually attack in times of droughts or in areas of low light, causing mass hysteria and localised panic. The wounds that they inflict are accompanied by burning sensations. Muhuru - Found in the lakes and forests of Kenya, this incredible animal represents a surviving Ankylosaurus that has evolved to live a semi-aquatic existence. It was first reported in 1963, when it crawled out of a lake into a small road, where it was witnessed by the drivers of an oncoming car. Unlike its prehistoric relatives, it is omnivorous and feeds on both plants and fish. Muirdris - Capable of increasing or decreasing their size at will, these monstrous jellyfish are mentioned in Irish folklore, in which they are said to be covered in spikes and spines like a bramble bush. Apparently, the very sight of the creatures are capable of disfiguring the onlooker beyond repair, though there is a possibility that this is a reference to stings. Mukai - Easily recognisable by their backwards-pointing feet, these bizarre vampires are known from Indian tradition, and are born when a woman dies in childbirth or under any other conditions considered to be 'unnatural' in local belief. They will attack members of their own family, hunting down all of the males first and draining them of blood overnight, before moving onto all the others. If a man is given a piece of food by a Mukai, and he accepts, all of his hair will turn white overnight. Mukāsura - Usually sent by demonic rulers to test the faith and penance of surrounding religious individuals, these monstrous demigods are attested to in the teaching of the Hindu religion, and usually resemble wild boars. Even when they are killed, they emit supernatural pheromones into the air around them which cause unrest and anger between local individuals. Muki - Usually appearing as pale and dwarfish humanoids dressed in classic miners' uniforms, these South American faeries dwell in caves and mountainous regions, and are capable of warping and changing the terrain around them. This includes making mineral veins appear and disappear, as well as whistling loudly to warn miners of impending collapses. They are not entirely benevolent, however, and are known to steal unbaptized children, which then later transform into other muki. Mukunga M'Bura - Responsible for the appearance of the rainbow according to African culture, these multi-coloured dragons dwell in shallow pools, and the reflections of their bright scales cause colourful displays in the sky above them. They are ferocious predators, and are known to emerge from their watery habitats either at night or during heavy rainfall to hunt local livestock. However, they can be killed if they are struck in the back of the neck with a hot spear. Mula Retinta - Assuming the forms of dark-coloured mules and appearing before muleteers as members of their herds of other pack animals, these elemental Colombian demons are found in the mountains of South America, and are capable of generating violent winds and storms. They do this with the intention of causing humans to fall off the steep precipices at the sides of mountain paths. Some sources say that they are the favoured steeds of the Devil himself. Mula Sem Cabeça - When humans commit serious sins such as adultery or sacrilege, they have a chance of becoming cursed to transform into one of these monstrous creatures at night, according to Brazilian folklore. They constantly spew flames and resemble headless mules, and are often seen stalking crossroads or abandoned church sites. The only way to remove the curse is to remove a supernatural bridle that will be tied to the victim. Mulassa - According to Spanish and Catalonian folklore, these monstrous green dragons are the personifications of irresponsibility and recklessness, and are in a constant state of anger and fury, always looking for an opportunity to hunt and kill any onlookers. They are also known as Mula-Fera, and are associated with mules and donkeys because of their stubborn natures and the powerful kicks that they deliver to their victims. Mulberry Black Thing - Constantly morphing and shapeshifting, this terrifying entity is found in the dense forests of North America, and is capable of sensing if those that see it have committed evil deeds. If they have, the creature will morph into what the victim fears most before brutally killing them, but if they have not it will transform into something helpful for them. No matter what it transforms into, it will always be a striking black color. Muldarpe - Assuming many forms depending on the situations with which they are faced, these shapeshifting Australian boogeymen are said to manifest as any number of animals, ranging from kangaroos and wombats to lizards and other reptiles. Young women of Aboriginal tribes are told terrifying stories of the creatures, and then they are required to sleep near a burial ground while the tribal elders make frightful noises, and those who manage to sleep will have passed the initiation ceremony. Muldjewangk - Lurking in Australian river systems, these vicious merfolk resemble salamanders, and are said to vary in size greatly among different populations. Some of them are the size of humans, and will attack fishermen's vessels and tear their nets, whereas some are large enough to attack steamships. There are some frightening stories of the smaller-sized ones snaring children who wander too close to the water's edge. Mulilo - This massive, grayish slug is found in the Congo and other African areas, and lives in mangrove areas where it can climb trees and hunt in the water. It is covered in a thick mucus that smells strongly to discourage potential predators. Mullo - Described as having white clothes and long hair that frequently reaches down to their feet, as well as one other noticeable physical oddity that varies depending on the region, these undead vampires are known from the gypsy folklore of the Romani people, and are created when someone dies suddenly or without funeral rites. To prevent a corpse from reanimating as a Mullo, one must drive an iron needle into its heart and place iron into its mouth, eyes, ears and between its fingers. Muma Pădurii - Stalking children and vulnerable adults in dark Romanian forests, these shapeshifting faeries usually appear as haggish humanoids with hideous features. They will capture children and drag them back to their isolated lairs, in which they will attempt to cook them alive in soups. However, as with most bogeymen, they are easily outwitted. Mumiai - Known for their persecution of the peasantry and lazy individuals of lower castes, these Indian ghosts single out those who have demonstrated bad habits and lacklustre behaviour, or have stolen from their neighbours, and inflict severe poltergeist-like hauntings on them. The ghost will take hold of their possessions, smashing their pottery and trampling over their gardens until the victims finally relent and are forced to move away from their houses. Mummy - Although nowadays thought of as nothing but movie monsters by most hunters, these undead beasts used to be a real threat. They were known to spontaneously reanimate themselves when their tombs were disturbed, and then seek vengeance on those who had ended their rest. Nowadays, however, there are very few reports of mummy attacks. Mumpoker - Although poorly-defined as simply a frightening spirit in English folklore, these evil creatures are more clearly referred to as boogeymen in the legends of the Isle of Wight, in which they are often invoked by parents to make their children behave out of fear of being attacked. The word 'mum' at the beginning of their name does not have the same meaning as it does nowadays, and is instead meant to signify the absolute silence with which the monsters move. Munuanë - Roughly 9ft tall, these monstrous aquatic ogres are found in the waterways and lakes of South America, and are well-known for fashioning primitive boats and blocking rivers. If fishermen take more fish from their homes than they need, then they will hypnotize them into walking off ravines or cliffs. The eyes in the monsters' knees are their weaknesses. Muramasa - Asian variants of the wraith, these creatures are thought to have once been the family of a great swordsman who made a deal with a deity to enable him to forge miraculously powerful blades. Over time, this deal has become more akin to a curse, and the creatures must now feed on the souls of their victims using blades that emerge from their skin. They often dress like samurais to kill their prey, which disguises their identity. Murder - Only tenuously related to its namesake crime, this bizarre and terrifying headless demon is mentioned in the Judaeo-Christian Testament of Solomon, and is known to decapitate its victims (mostly infants) in an attempt to attach their heads to its own neck, but the heads will always be burnt away by the hellish flames inside its body. Although it has no mouth, it can project its voice through those who are mute or otherwise vocally disabled. Apparently, it can be killed by lightning. Murk - Haunting cemeteries, crypts, tombs and other dilapidated areas where undead monsters are normally found, these unintelligent creatures are naught more than fragments of spiritual essence with very limited sentience, and exist only to spread gloom and drain living beings of their energy. They have the ability to move freely, and are driven by an insatiable hunter for life energy, creating more of their kind by completely draining other living beings of their energy. Murony - Found in Wallachia and Moldavia (now Romania), these sickening shapeshifters are sometimes considered to be undead because of their appearance, but this is incorrect and they are actually magic users that use their abilities to mimic vampires. They are usually male, and are known to painfully morph into dog-like forms at night, their spines elongating and becoming tails. While in these canine forms, they will hunt livestock and assemble themselves into vicious packs. Murray - Dwelling in the lakes and rivers of Papua New Guinea, these semi-aquatic theropod dinosaurs resemble the classic ideal of a tyrannosaur, with small arms and crocodilian armour plates along their backs, as well as teeth that are supposedly as large as a man's finger. The first recorded sighting of this frightening aquatic predator was when a group of native people spied the creature whilst traveling in a canoe, and the most recent report came from a tennis player in 2013. Murung River Bear - Found in Southeast Asia and Indonesia, these bear-sized creatures are relatives of binturongs, and will spend most of their life feeding on berries that grow on the banks of rivers in their habitat. They can swim, and are so territorial that they will fatally attack humans and animals that encroach on their land. Muryan - Scuttling around in the dark reaches of ancient castles and buildings, these Welsh undead beasts resemble hybrids of humanoids and large insects such as ants. They are said to represent the souls of faeries or dark magic users who refused to repent before their deaths, and are thus trapped in a hideous and monstrous form for eternity. Musca Macedda - Described in Sardinian myth as resembling demonic flies with heads much like those of oxen, these dangerous and highly-venomous insects guard treasures in ancient castles using their lethal stings and overwhelmingly huge swarms. According to a local legend, there were two treasure chests, one of which contained treasure and the other contained a swarm of Musca Macedda, and the threat of releasing the flies dissuaded any potential thieves. Muscaliet - Resembling rats or squirrels with the teeth of wild boars, these reddish creatures are found in European forests. They swing from tree to tree using their prehensile tails, and seem to have a devastating and toxic effect on the foliage that they touch. Their flesh is thought to burn hot to the touch, and it is said that they can burn humans to death using this ability. Muse - These faeries were common in ancient Greece, and are known to create creative urges in humans through use of a hallucinogenic substance that coats their lips. The victims will draw, paint and write obsessively, and the creatures will feed on the energy that they spend doing this. It is from this behavior that the phrase 'kiss of the muse' originates. Mušḫuššu - Found around Southern Iraq, this dragon-like hybrid appears to have the forelegs of a lion and the back legs of an eagle. It has a face akin to a large reptile, with three powerful horns. They are often found around ancient Babylonian structures, which they seem to protect with their lives. Musimon - Resembling a hybrid of a goat and a sheep with four horns on their heads, these European ungulates were used in Heraldry to signify people in authority who led with strength. They have the feet and body of a goat, the head a ram, and one pair of horns from both of the animals. Despite mostly being found in small numbers in mainland Europe, there are some herds in Corsica and Sardinia as well. Mušmaḫḫū - Resembling the more well-known hydra, these monstrous Middle Eastern dragons are thought to be one of the many species of monster created by the deity known as Tiamat. They have the bodies of lions, seven heads akin to those of large birds. Their blood is highly poisonous, and appears to have corrosive properties, which makes it extremely difficult to safely kill one of them. Mutant - Savage humanoids found in areas of high radiation concentration such as Fukushima, Chernobyl or the North American desert, these creatures were once normal humans that have developed into monstrous forms either due to genetic mutations brought on by radiation, or possibly due to extended periods of inbreeding. Mutants are cannibalistic and unintelligent, and are commonly said to kidnap and eat humans that wander into their territory. They are nicknamed 'the eyes of the hills'. Mutant Ant - Found in the New Mexico desert, these massive insects were created when a colony of ants was exposed to atomic radiation in 1954. Although hunters have endeavored to eradicate them, there are still thought to be some individuals at large. They are hostile to humans, viewing them as nothing more than prey, and can cause radiation poisoning to those that come into contact with them. Muu Shuwuu - Appearing as young and beautiful human women, these Siberian demons are the lonely spirits of women who died before knowing love, and now lure unwary men to isolated places on mountains or in dense forests. When their victims follow them, they will transform back into their avian forms and savage them with their bird-like talons. Muwakkil - Coming to the aid of those who are possessed by demons or other evil entities, these benevolent Islamic angels will take temporary control of a host's body and attempt to act accordingly on their behalf, whilst working to expel the evil presence. They are powerful warriors and can easily destroy most demonic presences, though require a human vessel to do this. Myling - The ghosts of young children as represented in Scandinavian folklore, these phantoms are born when a child dies without being baptized. They will roam graveyards and abandoned areas, trying desperately to persuade passersby to perform proper burials on their bodies so they can rest. If the traveler fails to do this, then the ghost will kill them out of rage. Myōbu - Bringing happiness and blessings to all those around them, these holy Japanese fox spirits guard the entrances to temples and shrines devoted to the godly Inari, and desire offerings of rice, sake and tofu. They are often seen to carry spherical jewels, spiral keys and scrolls, which are meant to represent wisdom and the souls of the Inari gods, which they serve. The Inari often use these creatures as emissaries or servants. Myrmecolion - These bizarre beasts come from the Middle East, and are the result of hybridization between ants and lions. It is unknown how this happens, though it is likely not natural. The creatures are conflicted and ineffective hunters, because of their different instincts based on their different body parts. Na Dòideagan - Resembling hags dressed in naturalistic and traditional attire, these wizened beings are known from the lore of ancient Scotland, and are said to have aided a magic user in warding off the Spanish Armada. Quite how they did this is unknown, though some form of weather manipulation has been suggested as a possible theory. Na Fir Ghorma - Lurking in the deep waters surrounding the Scottish region of the Minch, these bizarre and threatening aquatic demons resemble humans with blue skin, and are known to sink ships and snatch sailors off their vessels. They have the power to create extreme storms and waves, but can also be observed to float and sleep on the surface of the water. Reports survive of the strange humanoids conversing with mariners and laughing as their boats capsize. Naamah - Producing terrifying symptoms much like those of epilepsy in their victims, these Jewish demons are thought to be closely associated with fallen angels and Lilith. They are thought to be at least partially responsible for the birth of the children of Cain, and thus the formation of mankind's evils. Nabau - Although long known in the folklore of the surrounding Borneo jungle, these enormous Malaysian snakes are regarded as deities in the local culture, and their scales are said to give superhuman strength to the leaders of surrounding tribes. When these enchanted individuals die, they are sometimes said to reincarnate as one of the massive snakes after death and visit their families in their dreams. A photograph of one of the creatures was taken from a helicopter in 2009. Naberius - Said to command 19 legions of demons and to be capable of instilling knowledge of arts and the sciences in those that summon it, this Goetic Judaeo-Christian demon was first mentioned in 1583 by a writer named Johann Weyer. It either appears as a three-headed dog, raven or other large bird, and is thought to be associated with Cerberus. Despite speaking in a raucous voice, it presents itself as eloquent, and is capable of restoring lost dignities or honours to witches. Nachtkrapp - Roughly the size of a large eagle, these South German corvids are known in the local folklore as creatures akin to bogeymen, stealing and eating children that they can find. The real animals are not undeserving of this reputation, and are only made deadlier by the fact that they have learnt how to open doors and windows. However, some of these intelligent birds have learnt to trust humans, though these cases are rare. Nachzehrer - Similar to vampires, these German ghouls are formed after either a suicide or a death from a disease outbreak, and will consume both the corpses and blood of their victims. They tend to target their own family members, though have been known to eat their own flesh if food sources are scarce. Immune to conventional weaponry, the creatures can only be killed if a copper coin is placed into their mouths and then they are decapitated. Naddaha - Appearing as beautiful human women with pale skin, these seductive nymphs are found in the Nile River of Egypt, and are known to produce hypnotic songs that compel nearby men to walk into the river, where they will be drowned or kidnapped by the creatures. Sometimes, the creatures are known to sing into the windows of houses, inducing a permanent state of enthrallment in the men of the household. Nadubi - Usually appearing as humanoids with vicious spines and spikes sticking out of their legs and arms, these demonic shapeshifters resemble masses of living darkness in their true forms. They usually hunt using ambush, leaping out from the undergrowth of the Australian Outback and piercing their victims with their spikes. If this barb is not removed from the victim by a medicine man in time, the victim will die in agony. Nāga - Capable of both good and evil, these venomous humanoid serpents are found in the religion and lore of India and Asia, in which they are said to be almost godlike in power and mannerisms. They are curious beings, who often emerge from their watery habitats in human forms. Although they are said to protect villages from floods, they are sometimes said to cause them as well. Naglfar - This horrific phantom ship is said to appear at the end of the world as predicted in Norse mythology, and to be fashioned entirely from the hair and fingernails of previously deceased warriors. It supposedly ferries hordes of monsters and ghosts into battle with the pantheon of gods, and serves as a herald for the arrival of Fenrisúlfr, an apocalyptic wolf deity. Nagual - Using powerful dark magic to change themselves into either coyotes or pumas, these Mexican shapeshifters are greatly respected and feared by traditional societies because of their habits of draining the blood of their enemies and spreading fatal diseases. They are usually born on a particular date which becomes symbolic for the animal into which they will later change. Not all of them are malevolent, and some of them are ferocious protectors of their communities. Nahash - Mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as the demonic identity of the serpent in the Garden of Eden, this serpentine demon is regarded as a manipulative and cunning being that was capable of persuading Eve to consume a sinful fruit. There is considerable debate among Judaeo-Christian scholars as to whether this creature should be interpreted as a metaphorical representation of sexual desire, or if it is a demon or deity in its own right. Similar creatures are the Draconopedes and the Nāga. Nahvalur - Sometimes referred to as corpse whales, these Icelandic cetaceans live in the deepest reaches of the freezing cold waters. They are known to swim alongside larger, more dangerous creatures and clean up the plentiful leftovers that they leave in the water. These larger creatures often include animals such as the raudkembingur. Naiad - These water nymphs were first mentioned in ancient Greek records, though are distributed in freshwater worldwide. Although they may look beautiful, they often display severely jealous behavior surrounding certain humans, and this is not made any safer by their ability to hypnotize and control all those who are exposed to their watery habitat. As a result of this, they are worshipped in cult-like settings in and around the Grecian Islands. Nain Rouge - This demonic creature is found in the Detroit area, and is said to foretell or cause doom and destruction with its appearance. Those who see it tend to faint and eventually become bedridden, and the creature seems gleefully aware of this. Nowadays, a festival is held every year to help repel the entity, though there is talk of shutting this down. Naitaka - Related to the Japanese nure-onna, these serpentine merfolk are known from the local traditions of several lakes all throughout Canada, and are sometimes referred to as aquatic demons. They are capable of shapeshifting into human form as well as into the forms of monstrous sea serpents, in which form they are often mistaken for ogopogo. Nakani - These cruel and stupid humanoids lived in large tribes across North America originally, though were eventually thinned down by human settlers. Their brutish behavior led to the discrimination and persecution of humans native to North America by mistake. Näkki - Luring unwary humans into the water, especially children who peer over bridges to see their own reflections, these aquatic Finnish boogeymen dwell in murky bodies of water, wells and under bridges and piers. Despite their shapeshifting abilities, their backs are always extremely ugly in comparison to the seductive forms that they assume, among which are human women with three breasts. It is said that they will rise from the water to dance among celebrating humans on Midsummer's Night. Nalfeshnee - Acting as the judges and servitors of Hell, these bizarre porcine demons believe that they are bringing about justice by wreaking as much destruction on the universe around them as possible. They are normally disdainful of battle, but will not hesitate to cast spells of confusion upon their enemies, allowing them to attack without resistance, and summon more of their demonic kind to help them. Despite their flimsy and comical wings, they can fly at alarming speed. Nalusa Falaya - Lurking in the dark forests of North America, these shadowy beings resemble shriveled hairy humanoids with long snouts and glowing ears, and can instantly render their victims unconscious with their gaze. These victims will then be enchanted using a small thorn-like object, which will eventually corrupt their minds and make them violent and evil. The young of the creatures glow brightly, and are often mistaken for will-o-wisps. Namahage - Sent down from the mountains of Japan during the New Year festivities by a well-meaning group of deities, these vicious ogres carry knives or other weapons, and will attempt to break into houses. In this respect, they act like boogeymen or krampus, because they assess the behavior of the children across the past year to determine whether or not to attack. They resemble horned monsters dressed in straw cloaks. Namanari Hannya - Related to the Chūnari Hannya and the Kijo, these hybrid Japanese demons represent the first stage in a human woman's transformation into a demonic monstrosity due to jealousy and other malevolent influences on her soul, such as curses or having comitted unforgivable crimes. They have short horns and slightly demonic features, and are capable of summoning other evil spirits. Despite their grotesque nature, there is still enough good in them to allow them to return to humanity. Namibian Night Stalker - Appearing as a humanoid being with the head of a dog and a porcine frame, these grey haired beasts have recently been seen in the undergrowth of their namesake African region. They are said to hunt dogs and livestock, and to have at least attempted to kill humans previously. These creatures seem to be very dangerous, though they have not yet been officially identified or tracked down. Namorodo - Resembling humanoid skeletons with a thin network of skin held together by sinews, these nocturnal Australian vampires are well-known because of the distinctive whistling sound that the wind makes when it moves through their loose flesh. They act like undead bogeymen, attempting to gain entrance to the dwellings of vulnerable children and sucking out their insides, causing them to transform into namorodos themselves. Although they do not have wings, they can fly at great speeds. Nanaue - Born from the unison of human women and Hawaiian deities, these strange hybrids will appear as normal humans until they reach a certain age, though will have strange scars resemble sharks' mouths on their backs. If they eat meat, they will develop a sudden taste for human flesh, and will then gradually and painfully transform into a monstrous humanoid shark. Nandi Bear - Found in Eastern Africa, these vicious carnivores resemble a hybrid of a bear and a hyena, and will attack those that venture into their territory and feed on their brains. When observed, the bears will stand up on their hind legs in a display of threat, being 4-6ft tall and having long, curved claws. Nang Ta-Khian - Usually appearing as beautiful and seductive human women, these relatives of dryads are found in certain trees all across Thailand, and these plants are usually revered in a ritualistic fashion, with shrines built around them and offerings left for the spirits. If they are treated properly, they can bring good fortune and luck, but they will lure men with their hypnotic songs and steal their souls if their trees are cut down and they are not notified using a specific ritual. Nanook - Spoken of in the Inuit culture of North America and Canada, these powerful shapeshifters are said to have the ability to control polar bears in their vicinity, and decide if hunts sent to capture the animals will be successful. Because of this, they are deeply respected and honored by human communities, and polar bear corpses are treated with great caution by traditional Inuits. If the hunters fail to pay respect, they will not catch any more bears. Nape - Small, bipedal and sometimes aggressive, these apes are found in swampy forest areas of Southwest North American states such as Iowa. Despite their similar appearance, they are distinct from sasquatches and skunk apes. Their strange name is coined from an abbreviation of 'North-American Ape'. Naqiq - Residing in the waters on the shorelines of Middle-Eastern coasts, this intimidating Djinn takes on the form of a hybrid beast with the body of a powerful lion and the torso and head of a beautiful human woman with long black hair. Strangely, its methods of attack do not seem to be connected with water, and instead manifest as paralysis if the intended victim is awake, and as something called 'sinking death' if the victim is asleep. It is said to be one of the Seventy-Two Infernal Djinn. Narcissus - Tricked by a group of nymphs and pagan gods into falling hopelessly in love with his own reflection, the descendants of this ancient Greek hunter are now supernatural beings that are obsessed with mirrors and reflective surfaces. Despite their physically attractive forms, they are unable to show love or affection to any individual apart from themselves, which leads to heartbreak in the community around them. Narechnice - Appearing to newborn babies and their mothers in groups of three, these prophetic Slavic faeries foretell the future of the child. The first member of their group speaks of the child's death, the second about their sickness and misfortune, and the third about happy moments. Gold coins and warm fires are usually left in rooms with newborn children or expectant mothers to appease the beings. Narecnitsi - Appearing at the bedsides of newborn children, these strange Bulgarian faeries are tasked with foretelling the future of the infant, and will speak this prophecy for all to hear. They were often used in local folktales as the beings who appear before heroes and warriors to sing of their great futures. Nargun - Part stone and part flesh, these odd Australian trolls are known to be invulnerable to weaponry and to be hostile towards human invaders to their territory, particularly children. This behavioral quirk is often used in Aboriginal folklore to discourage children from entering sacred caves or straying too far from their campsites. Any weapon used against the creatures will instantly be turned back against its wielder. Nariphon - Found in the infamous jungles of Thailand, these half-human half-plant pygmies lurk in the treetops and are known to throw rocks at travelers. They are said to be able to assume a beautiful human form and seduce men, and it is said that this feature was given to them by ancient gods to distract human males from lust. Narri-Comboo - This rare species of canine is only found in Sri Lanka, and mostly resemble ordinary wolves or jackals, except for the leaders of their packs. These individuals will possess rows of spikes running down their backs, as well as elongated, fang-like teeth. Local superstition says that these horns and teeth have healing properties if ground up and used in medicine. Nasnas - Born from the unison of a human and a shiqq, these hybrid djinn often resemble bizarre amalgamations of human characteristics and those of animals such as elephants and turtles. They vary so widely in shape that some researchers have suggested classifying them as more than one species. Naujakuksualuk - Found around the cold seas of North America and Greenland, these enormous birds were mentioned in the folklore of the Inuit people and resemble massive seagulls. They have been known to snatch human victims up suddenly and take off with them, attempting to bring them back to their nests, and can only be killed by piercing their skin using a knife. Navagunjara - Possibly the strangest chimera known to modern researchers, these Hindu creatures are comprised of bizarre amalgamations of nine different animals, and are often mistaken for monsters even by the followers of the Hindu faith. They are said to be physical manifestations of the deity known as Vishnu, and are depicted in sculptural form on the edges of temples and buildings of religious worship. Nawao - Said to be active in Hawaii before the faeries known as Menehune drove them out and destroyed them, these carnivorous giants are similar to Nephilim and other prehistoric monstrous humanoids. They are regarded as the descendants of Nu'u, which is likely a local name for the Biblical figure of Noah, as he is said to have built an ark and escaped a Great Flood. This suggests that the Nephilim may have had some connection to Noah. Nawasuji - Spontaneously appearing in some areas of Japan, these mysterious paths are used as means of quick transport by demons and monsters, and if they are demolished or built upon then the land around them will become cursed. There appear to be guardians of the roads resembling black creatures with bright red mouths, and these monsters have the ability to move at extreme speeds and initiate poltergeist activity. Workers in the Kawzu village were attacked in 1939. Nbat - Frequently invoked in exorcisms performed by the Mandaean Gnostics of Mesopotamia, these Middle-Eastern spirits are hardly ever seen, and are thought to represent fertility and life. They are considered to be benevolent, often being called upon to repel demons and other evil spirits, or to aid the exorcist in difficult tasks. Very little else is known about them due to the relative obscurity of the Mandaean religion, but their name does mean 'it burst forth'. Nburu - Found deep within the forests of the African Congo, these dwarfish beings are either said to be faeries or demons, and have been described by Western explorers as resembling 'the most primitive forms of man'. They make themselves tiny accomodations on the forest floor, in which beds consisting of piles of dry leaves covered by a mat and pillows made from smooth pieces of wood can be found. Some sources claim that they are jungle-dwelling varieties of the stork-battling pygmies. Ndalawo - These big cats live in Uganda, where they hunt humans viciously, and are known for their distinctive black body with white flanks. They make an odd laughter-like call when hunting, and travel in packs of three or four individuals. N-dam-keno-wet - Living in the rivers and lakes of North America, these peculiar merfolk have small human faces and bodies with spiked fins. Little is known about their biology or behavior, but they are said to molest women who go to bathe in their watery habitat. Because of their lusty nature and ugly appearance, it is speculated that they may be related to the Irish merrows. Ndendecki - Appearing as massive soft-shelled turtles, these strange reptiles feed on aquatic vegetation and plants that grow on the banks and beds of rivers across Central Africa. It is suspected that there is some degree of exaggeration on the parts of the witnesses as to the creatures' size. Ndogbojusui - Pale skinned nature spirits usually taking on the forms of hairy humanoids with long beards, these West African faeries live in mountainous areas during the day, but will descend to the plains and bushlands at night to seek out and harass lone travelers or hunters. They are capable of using magic, manipulation and other forms of deception to lure their human victims deep into the surrounding jungles, leading them further and further until they die of exhaustion. Ndzoodzoo - Similar in coloration to the extinct quagga, these South African unicorns are said to have strangely flexible horns that will curl up into a protective ball when the creatures detect potential threats. Unlike other unicorns, however, these horns are thought to have no medicinal properties. Neades - Exclusively found on the Greek island of Samos, these enormous creatures are thought to likely be extinct nowadays despite their imposing physical stature and literally earth-shattering roars, and are sometimes linked with the fossils of extinct dinosaurs that are found on the same island. According to books of Ancient Greek natural history, they were most common when Samos was uninhabited by humans, and were said to be extremely dangerous. They were probably hunted out of existence. Neamh-Mairbh - Rising again from their graves to feed on the life energy of those around them by draining their blood, these terrifying British undead are thought to be associated with the legendary Abhartach. They can only be killed by stabbing them with a sword made from yew wood, and then surrounding their graves with thorns after burying them upside down. A large rock must be placed over their grave to prevent a ghostly manifestation from appearing. Nechysta Syla - Also simply referred to as 'unclean spirits', these hideous demons are found in Ukraine and other Slavic countries, and are responsible for spreading disease and spiritual corruption among human populations. Very little is known about their appearance, abilities or behavior, though they usually take on the form of an emaciated humanoid covered in flies. Necromancer - These people use dark magic to communicate with and control the souls and bodies of the dead. This magic is thought to be demonic by the Catholic Church, because of the blood sacrificing and the invocation of dark entities that is involved. Due to the use of this powerful magic, the humans' bodies will become corrupted and monstrous. Necurat - Evil and dishonest, these undead Romanian vampires are born from the bodies and souls of those who have succumbed to powerful demonic curses. They are weak and cowardly in nature, though they have the ability to track and hunt those who speak their individual names, rather than their species name. Negafook - Known from the folklore of the Inuit people of Canada and North America, these elemental faeries are responsible for lowering the temperature of the wind and water during the Winter. They usually appear mournful or despondent, because they know that they will have to abandon human company when the ice melts at the end of their season. Neha-Hra - Attempting to stop Ra's Sun Boat as it passes through the seventh section of the Egyptian Underworld known as Duat, this demonic serpent will attack the enchanted boat when it reaches a part in its journey that seems to be too narrow to move through. However, instead of falling victim to the serpent, the boat is saved by Isis and Serqet, the former enchants the serpent using incantations while the latter scorpion goddess holds the thing at knife-point. Neith - A member of the Ancient Egyptian pantheon of gods, this being is considered to represent war, hunting and wisdom. She is a brutal goddess, and is often said to wield a bow and arrow or a harpoon. Nowadays, many of her previous worshippers have been attracted by the Greek deity Athena, leaving Neith severely weakened. Nejamesha - Related to white storks and Cupid, this Indian deity resembles a humanoid woman with large wings and the head of a goat. It is sometimes compared with Baphomet because of its similar appearance, and is known to grant children and pregnancies to its followers through immaculate conception. Nekohebitori - First witnessed in May 2004 by a man named David Nardiello as it emerged from a lake in a town named Shinke-Cho in Osaka, Japan, this bizarre entity was described as a dragon-like creature with a long white neck and legs like those of a cat, and was said to have unfurled large wings after observing the witness for a while before taking off at great speed. Some researchers have speculated that it may be a relative of the Jersey Devil, or perhaps a semi-aquatic genetic mutation. Nekomata - Particularly monstrous variants of Bakeneko, these dual-tailed feline shapeshifters are usually found in Japanese cities and villages, and are born from only the most intelligent and long-lived cats. They view humans with contempt, and are often responsible for summoning enormous fires to kill many people, as well as commonly controlling undead puppets with their necromantic powers. The most powerful individuals will live in mountainous areas, and spread a supernatural variant of rabies. Nelapsi - Some of the most powerful vampires currently known, these Slovakian undead creatures are well-known for wiping out entire villages in single nights, crushing victims to death with their immense strength or ripping them to shreds with their fangs, and are also said to be able to kill humans with a single glance. They are also said to torture victims that they capture for weeks before finally letting them die, and all those that survive will be killed by a supernatural pathogen. Nelapsi - Stalking the graveyards of Slovakia and other European areas, these undead vampires are often dressed in the tattered remains of the clothes in which they were buried. They hunt both humans and animals tenaciously, and will either rip out their prey's throats, or crush them to death using their superior strength. The only way to kill the creatures is by decapitating them and then burning the body, which makes them among the hardest varieties of vampires to kill. Nemain - Personifying the frenzied havoc of war, these Irish spirits are surrounded by a cloud of deadly vapors that will drive anyone who inhales them into a flurry of violent rage. They are known to appear on battlefields, and force friendly armies to slaughter each other. Their arrival can be foretold by the sounds of disembodied screaming. Nemean Lion - This shapeshifting monster lived in Ancient Greece, and would kidnap young women in order to lure warriors into contact with them. When the warriors came to the woman's aid, they would find that the beast had taken the form of the girl and was feigning distress. It would use this ability to tear the warriors apart, and was unable to be harmed by mortal weapons because of its golden pelt. Nemorți - Thought to be vaguely similar to zombies and draugr, virtually nothing is known about these obscure Romanian undead. They are said to be the reanimated remains of those who have died within a particular vicinity, that are under the spell of a powerful dark magic user. While under this enchantment, they act as powerful soldiers. 'Nenaunir - Linked with rainbows in the Kenyan Masai people of Africa, this demonic deity was said to reside in the clouds where it would frequently cause violent storms and other catastrophic atmospheric phenomena. Like many other air elemental deities, it is usually depicted as a serpent with all the colours of the rainbow on its body. It is sometimes associated with a local myth about the rainbow swallowing the Earth, and the Masai attacking it to force it to return the planet. Nenufaremi - Regarded as generalised air elementals in European occult lore, these nebulous sylph-like entities are very scantly referenced throughout modern druidic literature, and only a single sentence is found in ancient sources, therefore meaning that almost no information exists. Like other air-dwelling faeries, they are likely capable of altering atmospheric conditions around them to suite their own needs, as well as effortless flight and intangibility. Neo-Giant - Often thought to be synonymous with bigfoot, these enormous hairy humanoids are found in forests and mountains across the world, and are sometimes said to be descended from early hominids. They are mostly herbivorous animals, and can reach heights of up to 8ft tall. Their fur is usually brown or black, though some red-haired specimens have been recorded. Neonate - Intelligent and telepathic, these Grey alien-like ultraterrestrials are slightly shorter than their counterpart species, and are distinguished from others due to their larger heads and five fingers. They garner their names from their unnerving resemblance to human fetuses, and are thought to have been responsible for the Roswell spaceship crash in New Mexico. Nependis - Fiercely territorial, these ape-boar hybrids will drive away all other large predators in their vicinity, and were first mentioned in European heraldry. Their sharp hooves enable them to climb trees with all the grace of a cat, leaving telltale scars in the bark. They seem to prefer intelligent prey, and have a particular taste for the flesh of fae, which they brutally maul and then drag up trees to eat. Neph - Often discovered through mummified remains, these half-alien beings are born from the unison of humans and Greys, and are usually shorter than regular humans with elongated heads. They are named after the nephilim due to their similar origins, and are thought to be found mostly in South America in the modern day. Nephelae - These rare nymphs were mentioned in the folklore and mythology of the ancient Greeks, and were said to represent the clouds. They carry pitchers filled with rainwater, which they use to feed the rivers of their naiad siblings, and to end droughts. Like actual clouds, they are said to have originated from evaporation of the water in the world's oceans and seas. Nephilim - Born from the unholy unison of a human and an angel, these powerful hybrid beings were mentioned in the Judaeo-Christian Bible and numerous Hebrew holy texts. They are created when fallen angels father children with human women, and are viewed as abominations or threats by other angels and beings. This often leads to the entities being demonized in records and religious scripture. Nereid - Mostly associated with the Mediterranean Sea, these aquatic nymphs are said to be kind and gentle in ancient Greek tradition, and to symbolize everything that is beautiful and kind about the sea. They dance around sea deities and are often seen to carry their weapons for them, and to produce hypnotic songs to help guide sailors to land safely. In appearance, they resemble beautiful young humans with bluish skin and clothing made from coral and seaweed. Nergal - A powerful demon worshipped in Babylonian culture, this being was represented as the god of the sunset, war and pestilence. Nowadays, it uses its followers to act as earthly spies for other demons such as Beelzebub. Net-Net - Spending most of their time making nuisances of themselves, these brown-skinned Australian faeries inhabit above-ground rocky caverns, and are known for having long talons instead of nails. They are thought to be related to leprechauns or Nittaewo. Despite their vicious claws, they are more of an annoyance than a threat to human life, seeing as they amuse themselves by stealing food and supplies from local villages and deceiving hunters. Neuntöter - Appearing during epidemics and other times of widespread pestilence, these horrific German vampires are the resurrected corpses of those who are either born with teeth or silver spoons in their mouths, and it apparently only takes nine days for the body of one of these people to rise again as one of the undead. Their bodies are covered in pustules and buboes, and they spread virulent incurable diseases wherever they go. They are afraid of lemons, and can be warded against using this. Neuri - Changing into werewolf-like monsters once every year, these shapeshifting magic users are found in riverside communities across Europe and Russia, and were documented by ancient Greek explorers. A degree of mystery has developed surrounding their origins in the modern day, because the beings themselves are incredibly rare. New Cansler Cat - Found in North American areas such as Kentucky and West Virginia, these mid-sized felines have evolved specialized back limbs for gripping onto tree branches. Their bright white fur reflects moonlight to such a degree that they often appear as if they are glowing. New Delhi Monkey Man - Also known as Kala Bandar, these Indian hairy humanoids are thought to either be ultraterrestrial or phantom attackers in origin, and were known to attack by scratching and biting human victims. They would leap and jump from rooftops and balconies, attacking unsuspecting prey from above. Their bodies are covered in dark hair and they appear to wear helmets, and have flashing lights on their chests. New Guinea Iguanodon - Seen in 2004 by a large number of villagers, this surviving dinosaur was described as having the tail of a crocodile and the head of a dog, which is a description that matches the idea of an iguanodon. Sightings had also been reported in 1999, and they said that the creature had been seen wading in shallow water. From this, it can be speculated that the creatures eat water-plants. New Hampshire Woods Devil - Very tall and skinny to an almost unnatural degree, these unique hairy humanoids are found in their namesake North American locale where they are considered to be hostile and frightening by the locals, who claim that they are extremely fleet-of-foot and are grey in colouration. Despite their alleged hostility, they are known to hide from humans, standing perfectly still behind trees and moving around so they are always out-of-sight, or making horrible screams. Ngạ Quỷ - Presumably the tortured ghosts of those who starved to death in life, these famished spirits are known from Vietnamese mythology, in which they are said to attend traditional funerals and steal the food offerings given to the deceased individuals. As a result of this desecration by the emaciated figures, Vietnamese funeral rituals usually include an offering of sticky rice made to the ghosts to prevent them from stealing food. They are related to Gaki and Preta. Ngarieru - Also known as Ngorieru, this powerful godlike creature controls merfolk such as Adaro in its vicinity, and usually appears as a humanoid covered in coral and fish. It is normally hostile towards humans, and is known to wield a bow and arrow from which it shoots arrows capable of causing supernatural sicknesses. However, when it is represented as a wooden carving on the boats and buildings of natives of the Solomon Islands, it acts as a powerful protective effigy. Ngoloko - Found in Africa, this animal is descended from potto-like prosimians, and have 2-digited pincer-like hands. They are covered in thick grey hair, and have long dangling ears with which they hear potential predators. Ngoubou - Often mistakenly referred to as a surviving ceratopsian dinosaur, this mammal is found in the Cameroon area of Central Africa, and is closely related to the extinct sivatherium. It is roughly the size of an ox, though will ferociously fight animals as large as elephants for territory. Nguruvilu - Originating from Chile, these strange aquatic creatures resemble serpentine foxes, and will be found in rivers and shallow lakes. They live in, and are the cause of, deadly whirlpools which kill those who attempt to cross their waterways. The only way to get rid of the creatures is by hiring a sorcerer or a shaman to perform a ritual. Ngworekara - Controlling the minds of evil spirits and ghosts in their vicinity, these powerful African demons are regarded as noblemen in the Underworld, and resemble humanoid elephants in their true forms. Their flesh is covered in dirt and scum as well as sparsely-distributed scraggly hair. They get their resemblance to elephants from their proboscis-like noses. Nhang - Often associated with dragons or sea serpents, these devious Armenian shapeshifters have been known to take on the forms of beautiful human women to lure foolish travelers into lakes and rivers. In their true forms, they resemble elongated crocodiles, and are known to have vampire-like habits of drinking their victims' blood. Nian - Resembling reptilian hybrids of rhinoceroses and lions, these Chinese creatures live both underwater and in mountainous areas. They will venture down towards civilization in the Winter, when food is scarce, and feed on crops and villagers. The creatures supposedly have a fear of loud noises, the color red and fire. Nichnytsia - Similar to the succubus or the incubus, these seductive demons appear in the bedrooms of sleeping victims overnight, and will attempt to have intercourse with them in order to drain their souls. They are mentioned in Ukrainian and Slavic mythology, and are thought to be related to the Ognyanny. The monsters sit on their victims' chests, rendering them immobile. Nicolai Chudovorits - Although thought to be an aspect of the Christmas Saint Nicholas by some, this Russian Winter spirit was well established in the country long before the advent of Christianity. It rides through the freezing air in December using a sleigh pulled by reindeer, and secretly delivers gifts to humans and their children. After doing so, it disappears as smoke through the chimney. Nida - Strange Earth elementals that are spoken of in Native American tradition, these monsters are often seen to possess the fossilized remains of mammoths and mastodons, and use their abilities to construct skin and flesh out of rocks and mud. It is common to see undead creatures such as liches or baykoks riding on the backs of these mighty beasts, and many people confuse the creatures for being undead themselves. Niðagrísur - Spoken of in the folklore of the Icelandic Faroe Islands, these ghastly creatures are born from the wrathful ghosts of illegitimate or unbaptised infants, or of weak babies who were killed by their mothers due to the harsh Scandinavian climate. They resemble four-legged monsters covered in black cloth, and are said to lurk in graveyards and run between people's legs, cursing them to die within a year. However, they will disappear immediately if they are given a name. Níðhöggr - Lurking at the foot of the celestial tree known as Yggdrasil, these awful serpents feed on the corpses of ancient deities such as angels and gods. There are a small number of stories about the creatures taking on human form and coming to Earth, where they fill the roles of villains and murderers. Night Wailer - Often mistaken for banshees, these spirits are produced when a woman dies in childbirth, and will then possess someone nearby and become permanently bonded with them. The human host will then share their body with the spirit's mind, and will be able to use its supernatural abilities for their own gains in return. Nightgaunt - Hostile faeries, these creatures resemble faceless winged demons, and move towards their prey completely silently. They have long claws and spindly limbs, and will inflict a tickling sensation on their potential prey in order to incapacitate them. Nightmarcher - Ghosts of deceased Hawaiian warriors, these beings will congregate in great numbers to march around villages and escort their relatives to the spirit realm. Any human who looks upon them will die unless one of their relatives is already within their ranks. There are sometimes said to be Pagan gods within their ranks as well as just ghosts. Nightwalker - Closely related to the undead creatures referred to as Nightshades, these tall and lanky creatures originate from the same world as the Shadow People, and are completely evil and malicious, feeding off the suffering and corruption that they generate in the mortals around them. They are roughly 20ft tall, and resemble horned humanoids with bodies made of shadows and a lack of facial features. Apparently they are formed from the souls of evil people with strong willpower. Nightwraith - Much like the closely-related Noonwraiths, these wrathful ghosts are only found in rural areas, where they manifest in fields and meadows in order to attack travelers, remaining intangible while their victims attempt to retaliate before taking on corporeal form in order to drain their vital energy. If they are weakened significantly, they can produce mirage-like projections of themselves, which do not physically attack but instead serve as amplifiers for the original wraith. Nihniknoovi - Mentioned in the Kawaiisu mythology of North America, these enormous birds resemble massive hawks, and are known to carry human victims away with the intent of exsanguinating their bodies into the nearest body of water before devouring their drained corpses. They usually build their nests in mountainous regions, and are sometimes locally referred to as 'man-carrying birds' because of their striking method of hunting. The etymology of their name is not clear. Nike - Sometimes classified as both angels and deities, these powerful beings were used by Zeus during his war against the monstrous Titans, and were appointed as divine charioteers. Flying around battlefields, the beings reward armies with which they have made alliances with victory and righteousness. They are associated with speed and strength. Nilbog - Tall and strong, these relatives of goblins are found in urban environments where they often act as mercenaries and hitmen due to their complete disregard for the laws of the human or fae world. They possess various magical abilities, such as superhuman strength and speed, as well as the ability to manipulate probability around them. Niluus - Coating themselves in slippery mud and then sliding down the throats of their reptilian victims, these horrendous aquatic hellhounds are found on the riverbanks and swamps of Africa. They were first documented in the writings of medieval naturalists, and are thought to be closely related to the hydrus. Their specific internal manner of feeding is believed by some to dislodge the souls of their prey. Ningaui - Dwelling among the mangrove swamps of Australia, these diminutive faeries are primitive and tribal in their society and behavior, and have not mastered the ability to make fire, therefore eating all their food raw. Paradoxically, they are able to control the amount of light that surrounds them, creating blinding light-shows at night and instantly producing darkness if their secrecy is threatened by humans. Ningen - Over recent years, Japanese whaling vessels have been reporting the appearance of these humanoid creatures in the Antarctic. They apparently have a face like a human, digited hands, and a long tail. Their bodies are 20-30ft long. Ningyo - Asian merfolk that resemble monstrous fish with humanoid front limbs, these creatures have been spoken of in Japanese lore for centuries due to the supposed immortality-giving properties of their flesh. Despite this, they are capable of placing horrendous curses on those that try to hurt or kill them, and legends tell of entire towns swallowed by earthquakes or tsunamis because of these beings' wrath. Nini'i Dog - Emerging from the waters of North America's Pyramid Lake to feed on the gutted remains of fish discarded by fishermen, these bunyip-like creatures are described as resembling large dogs with brown fur and white spots, as well as floppy ears and long, droopy lips. They live in enormous colonies of up to fifty or sixty individuals, but are also apparently quite timid, seeing as a local Nevada legend tells of how they were frightened away from some fish by a group of Native Americans. Ninki Nanka - This dragon-like beast lives in the swamps of West Africa, from which it will snatch children who stray too close to the water. It is described as having a body like a Chinese Dragon, and a number of small crest-like structure on its head and neck. It is thought to be able to shapeshift, because descriptions are inconsistent. Ninya - Dwelling deep beneath dried-up lakes and chasms in the Australian Outback, these bizarre elementals are referred to in the mythology of the Aboriginal Dreamtime, and are thought to have roamed across the hot plains of Australia in prehistory, leaving thick ice and glaciers in their wake. Aborigines often attribute skin rashes and dermatological diseases to fragments of sharp ice left in the ground by these frosty elementals, resembling humanoids with beards made from shards of ice. Ni-Ou - Standing guard at the sides of Buddhas, these muscular humanoids are usually found in pairs, and are renowned for the rage and fury with which they attack potential aggressors to the religious leaders that they protect. There is some speculation that they may actually only be the physical manifestations of a single entity, possibly angelic in origin. Nishi - Mimicking the voices of loved ones and family members to lure lonely travelers back to their secluded dens, from which they will never return Some magic users have the ability to nurture and control these monsters, and are often known to unleash them on those that they have grudges against. They will only call out for a victim twice, and so the real person will have been trained to call out thrice. Nittaewo - These small humanoids have been being reported from Sri Lanka since 400AD, and were even recorded by Pliny the Elder. They are supposed to live in trees, and use their dagger-like claws to snatch food from human settlements. They seem to be much rarer today, and may be extinct, which can be deduced from a local folklore story about the last individuals of this kind being burnt to death in a cave. Nitus - Impossible to describe due to their extremely tiny size, these microscopic Spanish parasites are found in Catalonia where they find new hosts by relying on the wind to blow them directly into the ears of potential victims, whereupon they burrow through their hosts' heads until they reach the brain where they multiply. Unlike other parasites, they will never kill their hosts, instead feeding like maggots on the memory, creating forgetfulness and fatigue. They are related to Falugues. Nivatakavachas - Celestial aquatic demons, these monstrous Asuras are mentioned in Hindu mythology, in which they are said to live in the very deepest reaches of the ocean, and to be capable of using enormously powerful weapons as well as being adept dark magic users. They are somehow so indomitable that they cannot be defeated by the deities Indra or Ravana, but were eventually decimated down to just one individual by the heroic demigod known as Arjuna, according to the Mahābhārata text. Nix - Found in all Germanic countries, these freshwater faeries are known to lure passersby into the water using powerfully hypnotic songs. They are able to assume human form and venture up onto land, though can always be identified by the water that streams from their clothes and hair. Despite this, they must keep within a set distance of their particular water source. Nixudaemon - Slowly draining the life out of their victims through overwork and exhaustion, these demonic despots resemble humanoid aberrations with enormous tentacles and blue-green skin covered in scars, and feed on the energy used while a person works to death, sometimes even capable of temporarily reanimating their slaves so that more energy can be extracted from them. Mortal slavemasters have sometimes been known to summon these demons, performing a ritual involving a sacrificial death. Nocnitsa - Made from shadow, these Slavic hags are said to lay on top of sleeping children and drain their life energy in a manner similar to the shtriga. They have horrible voices that sound like human screaming, and often smell of the dank wood and moss in the forests from which they originate. A stone with a hole in the center as a charm is said to be an adequate method of protection from these beings, but they cannot touch iron either. Nodeppō - Resembling flying squirrels, these Japanese faeries lurk in the tree canopies of dark forests, and will seek out humans from which to drain the blood that they feed on. They are capable of producing psychic illusions that appear as swarms of angry bats, which often creates panic in their victims. Noggle - Annoying and chaotic, these destructive equine faeries are found in farms and watermills across the Shetlands, where they attempt to destroy and stop various mechanisms from working. They are well-known for using their shapeshifting abilities in a similar manner to kelpies, luring those who could stop their antics into deep bodies of water to drown them. Nogitsune - Resembling a fox smaller than a mouse in their true form, these Japanese spirits can possess humans to gain a more physically powerful form. It is said that the families of those possessed will instantly fall out of fortune and possibly end up in poverty. As the creatures move through towns and streets, they seem to emit a pheromone that attracts large crowds of potential victims. Nojukubi - Spoken of in Japanese mythology, these beings usually appear as shapeless masses of flame, and appear around campsites or other areas of human social gatherings. They produce sounds akin to mourning or weeping women, in an attempt to lure unwary travelers towards them. When this happens, their flames will cover the entire bodies of their victims and possess them, and can then only be removed by striking a match to produce real fire. Nøkken - Extremely dangerous water spirits found in lakes and rivers with water lilies growing in them, these Norwegian faeries will attempt to kidnap and drown those who approach the lakes to pick the lilies, shapeshifting into different forms depending on the victim, ranging from attractive young men playing the fiddle to kelpie-like horses. However, their true forms resemble grotesque humanoids with large yellow eyes, enormous mouths and corpse-like skin covered in seagrass. They can be defended against by throwing silver needles into water where they are believed to dwell. Nommo - Found in the shallow seas and lakes in West Africa, these bizarre and alien-looking merfolk are known to have been worshipped as gods by a local culture called the Dogon. They are capable of using powerful magic abilities as well as changing their gender at will in order to reproduce quickly. There was some speculation that they may actually be ultraterrestrial or extraterrestrial in origin, though this has been proven incorrect. Noodleman - Detailed in the urban legends of the North American Sayville locale, these bizarre and unique boogeymen resemble mules or donkeys with heads like those of male humans, and are said to break into children's houses while they are asleep, attacking them in the form of violent nightmares. They are known to specifically target elementary school children, and their heads are often compared to that of an actor known as Peter Lory. Some have suggested a relation to the Muladona. Noonday Demon - Producing the listless feeling known as 'acedia' in its victims, this medieval European demon is alluded to in numerous Judaeo-Christian texts, and is said to attack monastic people at midday, between the hours of ten and two. Acedia is a condition which would be characterised as either extreme lethargy and torpor or as a state of restlessness and homesickness, making devoted monks yearn for their previous lives. The Noonday Demon may be related to the Poludnica. Nopperabō - Pallid Japanese humanoids that can easily blend into society until encountered from a short distance, these bizarre faceless creatures roam lonely roads and secluded lanes at night, and will often attract the attention of passersby and then show their lack of a face, seemingly feeding on the fear this generates. They often work in groups, so that when their victim goes to get help and describes their encounter, the other Nopperabō can say 'like this?' before revealing themselves. Nordic - Thought to be human descendants, these beings have traveled back into our time zone from the far future, and seem to seek to warn humans about the dangers of nuclear weapons and technological advances. They encourage peace and spirituality, seemingly without an ulterior motive. Witnesses describe them as incredibly tall (7-8ft) and beautiful, and also having the ability to communicate telepathically. Norn - Female beings, these Norse spirits lurk in forests all over the world, and control the fates and destinies of those around them. Distraught warriors and grieving partners will often come to them to make deals, and barter with their lives and fortunes. These deals rarely end in a positive result for the human, as the beings will demand that they offer up what they hold most dear in life in exchange for what they are asking for. Nosferatu - Extremely powerful Romanian vampires, these creatures are said to be children that are born in an unholy setting, sometimes if one of the parents is possessed by a demon or ghost at the time of conception. They are capable of shapeshifting, and feed on the blood and souls of their victims, who then become vampires themselves. Sometimes, they act as sexual predators like incubi and succubi. Nosoi - Appearing as a stark black raven with a face resembling a plague doctor's mask, these Greek spirits are thought to have been released from Pandora's Box in ancient times. They can fly great distances and reach communities isolated from the rest of the world, and are able to spread disease using a foul aura that they constantly emit. Nothic - Born from magic users who dabbled too heavily in forbidden knowledge and arcane secrets, these hideous one-eyed aberrations are created from spellcasters when their magic goes awry, and maintain no knowledge of their former selves save for the inclination that there might be a way to reverse their condition. They lurk in ruined towers and decrepit buildings, clustering around areas of high magic concentration, and accepting magical items as payment for any secrets they tell. Nozuchi - Making their homes at the tops of large trees, these peculiar hairy worms are said to have been some of the first ever recorded Japanese monsters. They feed on large animals by tumbling down hills or tree trunks towards them and swallowing them whole with their enormous mouths. Small populations of the monsters can be found in rice fields and atop tall trees. Nsanga - These semi-aquatic monitor lizards are found in the rivers and lakes of Central African areas such as Zambia. They feed on hippopotamuses, using their hooked claws and the mild venom that they can inject using their fangs. Local culture attributes magical significance to them, though it is unknown if this is true. Nuberu - Controlling the atmospheric conditions of their general vicinity, these Spanish faeries are usually cruel to humans, and delight in destroying their buildings and crops, though have been known to be kind to those that have helped them before. They usually appear as small humanoids with long beards and pointed hats made of goat-skin. It is common to ring bells in villages in order to exorcise these creatures from the locality. Nuckelavee - Found in Scotland and other European areas, these horse-like demons exist mostly in the ocean, though will venture up onto land to cause crop failures and epidemics among the human population. They are described as horrifying hybrids of horse and human, with bodies coated in raw muscle. Nue - Rare and deadly Japanese monsters, these chimeric beasts are said to resemble mixes of tigers, apes and snakes. They are regarded as bringers of misfortune and doom to those who see them, and this saying is likely based on their poisonous breath. Apparently, they are capable of flying despite their lack of wings or other organs suited to this. Nullarbor Nymph - One of the rarest species of nymphs, these Australian creatures resemble beautiful human females with blonde hair, and feed off kangaroos and marsupials that they catch. The first individual of this odd group as sighted in 1972 by a group of wildlife hunters, and swiftly initiated a media frenzy around the incident. Numen - The most powerful variety of elemental spirit ever recorded, these godlike Roman beings are wise and transcendent, seeing human culture as frivolous and primitive. They rarely come into contact with humans, though when they do they are usually restricted to speaking to emperors or rulers. In the past, they have been confused for deities because of their power, and temples have been built in their honor. Númhyalikyu - Found along the coastlines of North America, these monstrous halibut fish have flat bodies that mimic the texture and appearance of a sandy beach, and are capable of producing massive storms. When they are killed, a precious gem can be extracted from their forehead which holds much magical and medicinal value. They are notoriously difficult to spot, though constantly emit a low buzzing sound that can be used to trace them. Nunda - Resembling enormous leopards or civets roughly the size of elephants, these colossal African predators are thought to be distantly related to the mngwa, and are known to kill and devour any animals that they encounter. There is an old story that details a Sultan who believed that the Nunda was a tame cat, and said that anything that it ate also belonged to him. This attitude lead to the slaughter of a large portion of his kingdom, and he eventually agreed to kill the monster. Nuno - Thought to have originally been the ghosts of elderly people, these Filipino faeries live in anthills, and act as the vicious protectors of the land and earth around them. According to local culture, permission must be asked of these creatures before disturbing ground, or else the beings will place vicious curses on the users of the land. These curses can only be cured by making an offering to the creatures. Nuppeppō - Resembling a massive blob of fat, these monsters are found in graveyards and other isolated areas in Japan. They are not aggressive, but have a seriously offensive smell. They can move incredibly quickly when spotted, and can make potential threats faint due to their odor. Nure Onna - Stalking the rocky coastlines of Japan, these vampiric merfolk appear as beautiful women with the latter half of a hideous serpent when in their true form. Although they are physically stronger than humans, they prefer to use trickery and cunning to obtain their prey. As such, they are known to shapeshift into a distressed woman holding a child to garner sympathy and aid from passersby, which they will then feed on. Nuribotoke - Slithering out of dark and cramped places across Japan, these dark-skinned undead bogeymen resemble oily corpses with long fish tails and eyeballs that hang out of their sockets. They do not do much harm to those around them, though will dance around in the shadows of their households, seemingly enjoying the terror that they bring. Nurikabe - Appearing mysteriously on darkened streets, these creatures are usually invisible, although sometimes resemble grotesquely painted walls. They will block the way of any traveler in front of them, and will expand to either side to make sure that they cannot get round them. There is no way to knock these creatures down, though tapping them near the ground with a stick will make them disappear again. Nyama - Frolicking about in the shallow rivers and lakes of the African Congo, these bizarre fish have heads that resemble those of hippopotamuses, and have small crests running down their backs. Despite the illustration, they are not found in the same area as phoenixes or unicorns. They are only mentioned in the folklore of some specific African tribes. Nyami Nyami - Dwelling in the Zambezi River of Africa, this unique deity resembles a serpent or dragon-like being with sabre teeth in its true form, and is believed to provide food and water for the local Tonga people due to their respectful lifestyle. Images of the being were often carved on jewellry and pendants to bring good luck to the wearers. However, the Zambezi River was scheduled for damming in 1956, and thus the god became wrathful, causing severe flooding and deaths before vanishing. Nyol - Playing among the shadows at dusk in Australia, these diminutive faeries resemble tiny humanoids with stony grey skin, and spend their days deep underground much like the more famous gnomes. They can be good or malicious, but have been known to wipe the memories of humans that discover their subterranean networks of caverns, leaving their victims with severe amnesia. Nyuvwira - Held to be the largest snakes in the world in African folklore, these eight-headed reptiles lurk in the mines and caves of Eastern and Western Africa, and are said to cause death and disaster with their movements. They produce bright lights and stunning electricity at night, and can only be killed by being lured into a spiral hut lined with blades. In modern times, any airplanes that fly over these monsters will automatically crash. Oannes - Likely an emissary of the ancient Mesopotamian deity known as Ea, ruling over wisdom and freshwater bodies, this merfolk-like humanoid emerged from the waters of the Middle Eastern Persian Gulf in order to teach mankind science, writing and the arts. According to the Babylonian priest Berosus, Oannes appeared as a large fish with the head of a man underneath its piscine head and human feet beneath its fishy tail. Obambo - Central African ghosts, these creatures are said to be formed from the spirits of those who die in the wilderness and are never given a proper burial because of this. Eventually, the phantoms will make their way to the house of a close relative and beg them to bury them. A traditional ceremony follows this in which the person's body is found and given a proper burial involving the construction of a shrine to appease the ghost. Obariyon - Similar to onis, these Japanese monsters lurk in trees and hedges on the sides of roads, and will jump down and land on the backs of unwary travelers, who will then be forced to carry them. The monsters will get heavier with every step that their victims take, nearly crushing them to death. However, if the person carries them all the way home, they will be rewarded with a large bag of gold. Obayifo - Foul African vampires, these creatures have piercing eyes, and inhabit the bodies of unwary travelers that they capture and kill. When they are seen at night, they will apparently emit glowing light from their armpits and anus. Both in their monstrous form and their human form, they are obsessed with food. Obojoki - These vicious aquatic monsters are thought to be closely related to Mishipeshu, and are found in various lakes all across Iowa, where they guard stores of a rare copper-like mineral. They are large and physically powerful, whereas Mishipeshu can possess people and control water. Oboroguruma - Resembling oxcarts or carriages with grotesque haggish faces on their fronts, these bizarre and terrifying tsukumogami are born from the anger of ancient nobles who found themselves in a similar position to many modern drivers, unable to get to where they want to be due to gridlocked roads. The phantom carts are then animated by this negative emotion and feed on the anger and frustration of those around them. They park outside the homes of their victims and call them for rides. Obour - When a person is murdered, their bodies sometimes die so suddenly that their spirits will attempt to reenter their corpse, resulting in them becoming one of these Bulgarian vampiric ghosts after nine days of trying and failing to reanimate their bodies, and eventually being forced to wander the Earth as wrathful spirits, using their telekinetic powers to manipulate shadows and create poltergeist activity. After 40 days, the obour will become a physical undead version of its former self with a single nostril, before moving on to reestablish itself somewhere else. Ocasta - Enormous giants mentioned in the Cherokee folklore of North America, these monstrous creatures have bodies covered in flint, rendering them invulnerable to conventional weaponry. They were originally sent by the local deities to guide humanity, but were eventually corrupted and resorted to preying on human livers to which they are guided by the magical staffs that they carry. Strangely, they are frightened of menstruating women, and can be repelled by their presence for unknown reasons. Oceanid - Thought to be the ancient ancestors of merfolk, these marine Greek nymphs are routinely honored by traditional groups of sailors through prayers and sacrifices. Some of them are the consorts of sea deities such as Poseidon, and were said to pull the chariots of such beings across the water. Ocēlōtl - Created when ancient Central and South American warriors carried out a specific ritual involving capturing twelve enemies and sacrificing them to a deity known as Tezcatlipōca, these vicious shapeshifters resemble humanoid jaguars in their true forms. Children as young as 15 years of age were trained to become one of these mighty beasts, but their abilities can be taken away from them by cutting their hair when they are in human form. Octo-Jelly - Feeding on atmospheric beasts using their massive tentacles, these enormous creatures can reach up to 100 meters in length, and were seen in England in 2009. They are able to glow a bright blue color when alarmed, and are able to retaliate viciously against humans using their tendrils. Octo-Man - Whipping the denizens of the North American Ohio River Valley up into a frenzy in Winter of 1959, this indescribable humanoid was witnessed multiple times by terrified bystanders, most of whom called into the local police station to report their sighting. It was said to stand about four times the height of a regular man, to have a bulbous head, a lopsided chest and tentacles emerging from its body. During this same time, bizarre electrical failures were reported in the same vicinity. Octosquatch - In Spain 1961, a small roadside holdup was caused by the appearance of this creature, which was described as a hairy octopus with glowing eyes. The being (which hasn't been seen since) didn't move at all, even when several cars drove right up to it. Odd Walker - Witnessed in February of 1998 by a British woman visiting a Neolithic site at Belas Knap in the English Cotswolds with her family, these bizarre beings were described as humanoids dressed in dark hooded clothing with oval-shaped, translucent faces. They were seen to be moving in pairs, seemingly following another member of their species of much smaller than average stature in a purposeful march towards the alarmed witness, but never seemed to move closer, instead moving slowly away. Odei - Virtually nothing is known about this incredibly powerful variety of djinn that was known to the Basque people in ancient times. Their mythology says that the creatures were capable of controlling the weather and electrical energy in their general vicinity. It is possible that there are still members of this species alive today, and that they are mistaken for 'metahumans'. Odontotyrannos - Resembling a multiple-horned theropod dinosaur, these creatures are found in the swamps and forests of India. It is said that they hunt large mammalian prey such as elephants, but are not afraid to target the camps of human settlers if food is scarce. They live semi-aquatic lives, and will often ambush prey by lunging out of lakes or swamps. Oeonae - Subsisting entirely on birds' eggs and oats, these incredible surviving oviraptorid dinosaurs are to be found on secluded islands off the coast of Iran. When they were first cataloged by ancient Greek explorers, they were mistakenly identified as a race of humanoids because of their upright postures. Ọgbanje - Detailed in the Odinani beliefs of the Nigerian Igbo people, these evil African spirits take on the forms of children in order to be born into a family and die soon after, feeding on the grief this causes, often repeatedly entering and leaving a family to maximise the torment of the parents. They are known to bury talisman-like objects known as Iyi-ụwa nearby, which allow them to constantly reincarnate and track their chosen family, and will banish them if found and destroyed. Ogbunabali - Known from the mythology of the Igbo people of Africa, this shadowy deity is best summed up by the literal translation of its name, which means 'kills at night' in the local language. Just as could be expected, it uses stealth tactics to reap the souls of those who have comitted horrific crimes or broken unspeakable taboos, attacking and killing them overnight. Because of its secretive nature, very little is known about it. Ogbunabali - Known from the mythology of the Igbo people of Africa, this awe-inspiring deity is best summed up by the literal translation of its name, which means 'kills at night' in the local language. As with most deities of the Igbo pantheon, it was created from the soul of an ascended human, and in this case it represents the soul of an albino vigilante who was obsessed with bringing violent death to criminals. Now, it stalks those who break taboos, and brutally kills them overnight. Ogdoad - A group of eight primordial deities worshipped in the early days of Ancient Egyptian society, male individuals of this species have the heads of frogs and females have serpentine heads. Very little is known about their true attributes and behaviours due to them having been mostly forgotten even in the Late Period of Ancient Egypt, but some more famous deities such as Kek are among their ranks. Some scholars have connected them to darkness and floods, and to other gods like Tiamat. Ogdoad - Godlike semi-aquatic faeries, these Egyptian creatures appear as either frog-like or serpentine humanoids, depending on their gender and distribution. They have the ability to control the waters in their nearby area, and are also associated with dark magic and evil deities such as Erebus. Ognyanny - Often assuming the forms of flaming serpents and streaking across the skies like meteors, these fiery demons are mentioned in Slavic mythology. They enter the houses of their victims through the chimneys, and then assume the forms of their loved ones or deceased friends, in order to feed off the emotion that this causes people. Their victims will eventually be driven to madness and suicide. Ogoh-Ogoh - Brutal fanged ogres, these shapeshifting Hindu monsters are thought to be relatives of rakshasas, and are usually seen at particular times during the year, in accordance with religious festivals. They represent natural forces that produce evil in human beings, and their vicious attacks on the surrounding population are thought to be a sort of cleansing of evil energies. Ogopogo - Found in a small number of lakes across Canada and North America, these water spirits resemble long serpentine creatures in their true form, and swim by undulating their bodies. They can be both malevolent and peaceful, and have been known to sink boats, as well as stealing local pets and sometimes children. Ogre - Vicious and violent monsters, these hideous beasts were first officially named in French culture, though have existed all over the world since before this time, and nowadays are responsible for many brutal murders. They are notoriously difficult to kill, seeing as they must be dismembered and gradually overwhelmed with physical force, which is obviously nigh-impossible due to their massive bulk. Ogua - Behaving in a similar manner to alligators and crocodiles, these enormous North American turtles are found in lakes and rivers across Virginia, and are known to upturn canoes and eat unwary swimmers. They are highly aggressive, and are known to drag their prey deep underwater and store their bodies in specially dug-out dens. Their bodies are usually dark green or reddish in color. Ohaguro Bettari - Resembling normal human women dressed in wedding clothes when viewed from behind, these hideous Japanese beings will suddenly turn around when approached by a traveler, revealing that their faces are blank and featureless save for a gaping maw filled with blackened teeth. They are mischievous, and seek to frighten their victims with their horrible cackling and gruesome visage. Some researchers have speculated that they may actually be shapeshifting tricksters. Ohdowas - Responsible for maintaining the balance between the surface and the Underworld in Native American mythology, these dwarfish faeries are very brave and tenacious in their protection of the human realm. Offerings of fractured weapons and armor must be given to the subterranean beings by native tribes if they are to continue performing their duties. Oi - Not nearly as destructive as other spirits associated with disease, these Kenyan demons only represent personal illness, and thus cannot spread among a human population, preferring to only menace a single victim. They are known to attach themselves to an object within the homes of their victims, meaning that in order for the spirits to be exorcised, everything in the house must first be removed before a priest is employed. Once this has been done, the Oi will have no choice but to leave. Oigakari - This Japanese shadow being lurks in alleyways and abandoned buildings, and will jump onto the backs of those that pass through its territory. It is mostly harmless, though will get heavier with every step that the victim takes. Oil Pit Squid - Found during a routine draining of toxic North American oil pits in 1996, these freakish animals resemble squids or cephalopods, and seem to only have a single eye. They are particularly strange because the oil pits were described as being completely deadly to any known form of life. One individual of the species was captured, but it vanished before it could be taken away for testing and study. Oil-Drinking Spider - Found in France and Italy, these enormous arachnids weigh roughly four pounds and are usually the size of small dogs, and were reported to have made nests in large cathedrals and churches on two separate occasions, once in Milan in 1751, when one of them was captured and sent to the Emperor of Austria for display. They get their name from their strange behaviour of drinking the whale-blubber oil used in lamps of the period, though this would be less feasible nowadays. Oilliphéist - Lurking in lakes and rivers across Ireland and Scotland, these enormous dragons resemble sea serpents, and are known to swallow human prey whole by suddenly lunging out of their watery habitats. According to local mythology, a particularly large member of the species attempted to thwart Saint Patrick's mission to drive serpents out of Ireland. Oiwa - Female spirits of vengeance mentioned in Japanese folklore, these ghosts are believed to be the perfect example of archetypal vengeful spirits, for they are solely driven by a desire to kill those who wronged them in life, and cannot achieve peace in the Afterlife until they do so. They are named after a character in the 1821 play by the name of Tokaido Yotsuya Kaidan, in which a man poisons his wife so that he could marry another woman, only to be menaced by her wrathful ghost. Ojáncanu - Found in the deserts and forests of Europe and Spain, these enormous cyclopes have long manes of red hair, and are thought to be the embodiment of cruelty and brutality. They are constantly destroying villages and blocking water sources, and can only be killed by removing a single white hair in their beards. When they die, their insides are removed by members of their own kind and their bodies are buried under large trees, where they will eventually reanimate. Ōkami - Resembling werewolves, these monsters are found mostly in Japan, though will follow selected prey items across the world. Unlike other monsters, these creatures will choose a specific prey type as individuals. Bamboo knives blessed by Shintō priests can kill them, though dismemberment can do this as well. Okhwangsangje - Capable of granting wishes and transmuting both living organisms and matter into different states, these powerful Korean deities are literally known as 'jade emperors'. They are thought to have been influential in the original formation of their home country, and it is said that one of their descendants became the first magic user in the nation. Okiku - Similar to banshees, these Japanese apparitions are as beautiful as they are deadly, and will lurk around wells or other sources of water repeatedly counting from one to nine. This behaviour originates from the first individual of this species, who was originally a serving girl that was beaten to death after her tenth plate was hidden by a scorned lover. Anyone who hears the ghosts' counting will become very sick and will eventually die. Okind - Closely resembling river serpents at first glance, these Icelandic monsters are found in the freezing rivers and lakes across the country, and supposedly appear as dogs or wolves with long tails and spines along their backs. One of these monsters was last observed and recorded in 1702, and so some researchers have now suggested that they are either extinct or endangered. Okka - Most closely resembling small red balls with two legs and stumpy tails, these oddly adorable Japanese creatures are mentioned in some of the earliest bestiaries of the country, and are known under innumerable names. Due to their ancient origins, very little is known about their evolution or behavior, besides often being attacked by other creatures and being seen alongside tsukumogami. Oklahoma Octopus - This massive cephalopod is supposed to be found in several lakes across its namesake American state, where it has become responsible for a number of 'unexplained' drownings. It is thought that it originated from a population of saltwater octopi that became trapped in the lakes, and so have therefore evolved into a new species. Okpe - Mountain-dwelling Chilean trolls, these monsters resemble humanoid boars, and will fashion clothes for themselves out of the skins of animals that they capture. They tower above humans in stature, though are dim-witted and easily tricked. There are stories of people rescuing kidnapped victims from these creatures by outwitting the beasts into accidentally giving the hostages up. Ol' Hige - Shedding their skins overnight to assume the forms of owls, these shapeshifting Jamaican witches are especially dangerous to babies, flying into their houses and sucking out their breath while they sleep. The only way to defeat one of the creatures is to find their discarded skin and cover it in salt and pepper, meaning that it will irritate the monster too much to assume their human forms again. Without their skin, they can be killed and babies can be protected with an open Bible. Old Saybrook Blockhead - Truly alien beings, these bizarre ultraterrestrials were first witnessed in 1957 in their namesake North American area, and appear to have transparent cubes with glowing red cores where their heads would otherwise be. Their bodies are rubbery and splay out like skirts, and they move in metallic airships that can alter their shapes and forms at the creatures' will. Old Stinker - Created by the intense fear and hatred surrounding wolves in Britain, and also the guilt over wiping them out as a species, this demon has appeared in England in recent years. It is capable of possessing humans, and will feed on corpses from cemeteries, which is where it gets its comical sounding name. Olgoi-Khorkhoi - Mentioned heavily in the folklore of natives of the Mongolian Gobi desert for centuries, these incredibly dangerous invertebrates are capable of spitting corrosive venom and generating large quantities of electricity. They are roughly the size and shape of a cow's intestine, and are famously bright red in color. Most reports tend to exaggerate the size of the worms. Olitiau - Gigantic and vaguely humanoid bats, these creatures are found in the jungles of Africa, where they feed on fruit and small animals that they catch. They are feared by locals as demons, and are represented by ceremonial masks in rituals. Olsen - Responsible for most minor annoyances that occur in Danish households, these invisible faeries will steal food and misplace or break valuable items. They are sometimes mistaken for poltergeists or demons due to their destructive behavior, and the fact that they are never seen while they move or smash objects. Ombwiri - Acting as guardian angels to specific African tribes, these strange beings are thought to be the long-forgotten ghosts of tribal ancestors, and take a particular interest in the lives of their descendants. They can only be perceived by those who are religiously initiated and trained to do so, and usually appear as pale and phantasmal humanoids. Despite usually being benevolent, they can be fickle and are known to induce misfortune for humans that they dislike. Omega - Appearing to be comprised out of pure energy or a translucent fluid, these glowing ultraterrestrial beings have rarely been associated with reports of alien abductions and UFO landings in remote parts of the world. They seem to be relatively uninterested in human society, which is likely why their presence is reported so infrequently. Ompax Spatuloides - Only found in a single watering hole in the Australian Burnett River, these unique creatures resemble dark mahogany fish with hard, bony scales and long, spatulate beaks much like those of duckbilled platypuses. They were first discovered in 1872 when a naturalist by the name of Staiger was served a specimen for breakfast, and he proceeded to scientifically describe it. It turned out that the anomalous fish was a hoax, and that they now exist as harmless tulpas. Ōmukade - Monstrous Japanese centipedes, these creatures roam mountainous forest areas, and are highly aggressive towards human passersby. They have incredible physical strength and potent venom, but are weak to the touch of human saliva for an unknown reason. Because of their impenetrable exoskeleton and deadly abilities, the task of slaying these creatures has often fallen on brave knights or warriors. Ōnamazu - These massive catfish are found in deep rivers and lakes across Japan, and behave much like their smaller relatives. They will dig and burrow in the mud and rock at the bottom of their waterways, and will thrash and paddle frantically when startled. This behavior has the potential to cause small earthquakes around them. Ondel-Ondel - Despite their uncanny and unnerving appearance, these colorful Indonesian spirits are thought to have originally been powerful forest-dwelling protective beings that would guard small villages from outbreaks of disease and attacks by demons in return for gifts of tobacco or opium. They are now often depicted in ritualistic dances, involving offerings of incense and rice porridge. Onditachiae - Hideous shapeshifters resembling winged humanoid turkeys in their true form, but frequently simply assuming the forms of giant birds, these bizarre North American creatures are believed to be storm elementals, and to cause thunder and lightning. Despite their hideous appearance and their ability to kill any potential aggressor with their gaze, they are thought of as honorable and fair in the culture of the surrounding Native Americans. Oneiroi - Strange faeries, these Greek creatures were recognised as household gods in ancient times because of their control over the sanity and sleep of a family. They normally present themselves as black-winged humanoids, and are capable of manipulating the dreams and nightmares of a group of people into becoming reality. However, they can also produce prophetic dreams in their human subjects, as well as imbuing them with magical abilities of their own. Oni - Similar to trolls or ogres, these monstrous Japanese demons are known all across the world because of their iconic appearance, and are thought to be born when the souls of truly wicked humans are demonized in the Buddhist equivalent of Hell. They are rarely seen on Earth, because most of them are relegated to punish the souls of the damned, but when they are seen on the surface they are known to kill and eat livestock, as well as spread disease and cause large-scale disasters. Oniate - Horrifying undead apparitions, these creatures resemble disembodied mummified hands, and are spoken of in the folklore of certain Native American tribes. They are said to prowl around deserted or tabooed areas, and to be able to inflict blindness or a deadly withering disease with their touch. Onmoraki - Demons that are formed from the soul of someone who did not receive a proper religious burial, these creatures resemble hideous birds. They have glowing eyes and fire breath, and can mimic human voices perfectly. They are often found in areas where many people have died, such as hospitals or graveyards. Onocentaur - Primitive African relatives of centaurs, these creatures have the bodies of donkeys and the torsos of hairy humanoids. They have a vicious temperament, and use their forearms to clutch weapons and brutally maim all those who seek to capture them. Their bodies are usually white or grey in colour. Onoskelis - Worshipped as deities by some cults in the Middle East, these Jewish demons are similar to succubi, and usually resemble beautiful human women with the legs and tails of donkeys or goats. They usually live in mountains and ravines, and have the ability to corrupt and warp the personalities of those around them. Although they are aware of the worship that they receive, they seem to take pleasure in giving their followers nothing in return. Onryō - These vengeful ghosts were first mentioned in the legends and culture of Japan, that are formed from the souls of people who died with extreme jealousy or hatred still in their mind. They are able to inflict a terrible curse on anyone and everything that they come into any contact with, be this an actual encounter, or simply someone who has heard the story of how they died. Oókempam - Mentioned in the legends of the Aónikenk people of Argentina and Chile, these child-stealing beasts resemble large four-legged animals shrouded in tough carapaces like those of armadillos, making them almost invulnerable to conventional weaponry such as arrows. There are some references to them having sharp, puma-like claws, though this is likely meant to mean that they can't be hurt by pumas due to their shell. Their only weak points are their ankles, which are unarmoured. Oókempán - Possibly related to the Japanese kappa, these giant humanoids lurk in the swamps and caves of Chile, where they are said to kidnap children who wander too close, and can only be armed by being hit in the heel. They have shells on their backs and long, dark hair, which are features shared by their likely Japanese relatives. They will entice children with pieces of meat, and then snatch the victims and store them in a fleshy pouch in their throats. Ophanim - Resembling iridescent winged wheels, these truly bizarre angels are mentioned in Biblical literature, in which they are said to guard the throne of God. They are without sleep, and are covered in eternally wakeful eyes that surround each of their metallic coils. It is said that they were seen in the vision of God's chariot that was perceived by Ezekiel. Ophiogenis - Born when a shapeshifting serpent had intercourse with an ancient Greek goddess, these powerful demigods usually resemble beautiful and charismatic humans with an affinity for serpents and reptiles. They appear as slightly reptilian humanoids in their true forms, and have the ability to control snakes and other cold-blooded animals. Opinicus - Thought by some scholars to represent a more primitive form of the common griffin, these European creatures appear very similar to their relatives save for the presence of four feline limbs rather than only two. They seem to enjoy riddles and puzzles, and are less transfixed by gold and riches than regular griffins. Most information about them has been gathered from heraldic art sources. Opir - Found in and around the seas and rivers of Ukraine, these semi-aquatic vampires mostly feed on fish and marine animals, though have also been known to leave the drained corpses of shipwrecked victims on the shores. They are capable of shapeshifting into beautiful human forms, though normally resemble drowned corpses with vaguely fish-like features. Oracular Tree - Psychic plants, these beings are found all around the world, and are able to speak to humans telepathically in order to foretell future events. This ability is often used by druids and local pagans in their ceremonies, and thus the creatures are revered in many religions. Because of their worldwide distribution, they are known by many different names in different cultures. Orang Bati - In Indonesia, these terrible flying primates are known to raid villages and carry off children and infants. They have been being reported since the 1500s, and seem to carry some kind of a disease that can kill humans which they come into contact with. This trait has been interpreted in local folklore as a deadly curse. Orang Bunian - Appearing as lithe and beautiful humanoids dressed in primitive but traditional garments, these enchanting Indonesian faeries live in structured societies in mountains and forests across the area. They sometimes intermarry with humans and have hybrid children, though the humans in this arrangement often suffer from missing time if or when they return to the settlements of their own race. Orang Minyak - Covered in oil, these rapacious creatures will roam the cities of Malaysia under the cover of night, and will attack human virgins as they sleep. They are supposedly invisible to non-virgins, and were originally seen in the 1960s, with sightings decreasing into the 21st century. The progenitor of this species was apparently a man who sold his soul to the Devil in exchange for winning back the heart of his lost love. Orange Eyes - Living in swampy areas around Cleveland, this hairy beast is related to the Ohio grassman and the sasquatch. It seems to be semi-aquatic, and feeds on fish or small land animals that wander into its habitat. It gains its interesting name from its fierce, glowing orange eyes which are often the first thing seen of it by a witness. Orang-Pendek - Small, hairy humanoids, these apes are found in the jungles and forests of Indonesia, where they have been being seen for hundreds of years. Local tribes leave them offerings of tobacco leaves to keep them away from their settlements, and this seems to please the beings for unknown reasons. There has been an increase in Western research into the animals recently, and a footprint cast was taken in the early 1990s. Orang-Rimba - Although originally confined only to South America, this different culture of completely feral human beings has since grown in numbers and has recently been seen moving around North America. Despite their obvious wildness, they have been known to become attached to certain people, which they will then follow and attempt to help. Orb - Observable in photographs taken in allegedly haunted locations, these tiny ghost-like entities usually appear as spherical objects or lights, and are usually said to represent a recently-departed human soul or to manifest in places with high concentrations of ghostly activity. Some researchers claim that faces and clothes can sometimes be observed within their light, while some other people claim to be able to determine the meaning of their differing sizes and colours. Orc - Closely associated with goblins and ogres, these brutish humanoids were first mentioned in modern fantasy literature, and live in mountainous regions where they construct primitive societies much like those of the barbarians of old. They are sometimes seen to ride atop Vargr, and they are known to be incredibly warlike and hostile towards anyone who dares encroach on their territory. Orcitimor - Also known as 'fear devils', these demonic manipulators feed on the fear of punishment and drive to zealotry within humans, twisting the minds of the religiously-devoted using magical nightmares and illusions to become hypocritical, fearmongering and hateful towards those who don't share their faith with the intention of damning them to Hell. They often work with Crossroad Demons, and are known to separate groups of assailants during battle and tear them apart individually. Orcnéas - Named for the Old English term for a 'demon corpse', these extremely poorly-defined undead creatures are attested to in the ancient poem of Beowulf among the ranks of monstrosities that were apparently condemned by the Judaeo-Christian God, but is unknown exactly which type of undead they were. Some scholars have suggested that they may be linked to Orcus, the Roman god of the underworld, whereas some other researchers have posited that they are somehow related to sea monsters. Orco Mamman - Beautiful nymphs considered to be the guardians of all gold, silver and other precious metals to be found within South American mountains, these faeries are known from the mythology of the Northwestern regions of Argentina, and are thought to be closely related to Oreads. Although they spend most of their time combing their hair with golden combs, they will cause catastrophic mine collapses with the intention of killing miners if minerals are taken excessively from their mountains. Ördög - Usually resembling a satyr-like creature with a bladed tail, this strange Hungarian demon is said to represent the evil and dark forces in the world in the local religion, and enjoys making bets and deals with those that are vulnerable to spiritual corruption. It usually dwells in the pits of Hell, where it stirs a large cauldron filled with the melting souls of deceased sinners. Although it usually takes on a caprine form, it has also been known to shapeshift into a foul hellhound. Oread - Beautiful mountain nymphs, these rocky-skinned faeries are mentioned in traditional Greek folklore, and appear to vary slightly in appearance and behavior depending on which mountain range they are associated with. They have the ability to change their forms to match those of beautiful human women, though prefer to remain in their stony form. Óriások - Enormously physically strong, these Hungarian giants were originally created as an experiment by an anciently powerful deity, but then rebelled and successfully killed the god using their advanced weaponry. Bizarrely tall structures in the wilderness of the country are often attributed to the handiwork of these mighty beings. Ork - Capable both of being helpful and deadly, these Austrian household faeries are often confused with orcs because of their similar-sounding names. In modern stories and accounts, they appear to be similar to brownies, performing household jobs and tidying rooms while human occupants are asleep. However, in older reports, they are carnivorous and savage, and were known to eat people. Ornias - Appearing as horrid beasts that resemble fiery lions with spiked wings in their true forms, these ancient Middle Eastern demons are mentioned in Hebrew literature, and are known to shapeshift into beautiful women to trick men into having sexual intercourse. Like other succubi, they will drain the souls and life forces of their victims during this process, eventually leaving them to waste away and die. Magic users sometimes strike deals with them in order to learn the future. Orobon - Found in the Red Sea, these vicious creatures are relatives of the underwater panthers of North America, these monsters resemble hybrids of felines and crocodiles. They are said to reach 30ft long from head to tail, and will choke the life out of prey before swallowing them whole. Apparently, they can kill and eat entire villages of people, as well as any creatures that they can capture. Orthrus - Closely related to Cerberus, these monstrous two-headed hounds are spoken of in the mythology of ancient Greece, and are said to have guarded the resting place of the giant known as Geryon. The first individual of the species was slain by Heracles, but other members of the group are still alive today, and guard the dens and nests of various powerful supernatural entities. Osaki-Gitsune - Sometimes possessing entire families of humans at a time, these eccentric Japanese spirits are born when a shapeshifting fox such as a kitsune is killed repeatedly and its tail gains sentience of its own. In their true form, they resemble small weasel-like mammals with split tails, but they are more often found inhabiting the bodies of reclusive families or individuals. Those suffering from possession will have anxiety but are able to create gold, silver and rice on a whim. Osakoburi - Originally nothing but crowns or other expensive headgear itmes that were neglected over a period of 100 years, these rare Japanese tsukumogami will spring to life with wrathful souls of their own, and will develop tendrils with which they can amass robes and garments to construct themselves bodies. Due to this behaviour, they are often mistaken for ghosts or other animated objects, because they rarely only look like crowns. Oseichu - Japanese parasites, these shapeshifting worms will infect human victims and give them high fevers and extreme stomach pains, before making a large mouth appear in their stomach, which will then demand to be fed. This mouth will consume all of the food that the human victim eats, eventually leaving them starving to death until they are exorcised. Once this happens, an enormous lizard-like worm will be expelled from their bodies. Osschaart - Canine creatures, these shadowy beings are found in the Netherlands and Scandinavia, where they stalk inebriated humans through urban areas at night. Their arrival is often signified by the rattling of the infernal chains that cover their bodies, and their glowing red eyes can often be seen through the darkness. They are able to shapeshift, and feed by mauling confused drunkards and other unsuspecting victims by jumping onto their backs. Osterhase - Thought to be what the modern culture surrounding the 'Easter Bunny' is based on, these German creatures resemble hares or rabbits, and are known to give gifts of coloured eggs in small nests that are made by children before Easter. Like other seasonal entities, they are sometimes said to act as judges as to whether children have been good or bad in the year leading up to their celebration, in this case Eastertide. Rabbits often represent new birth because of their prolific breeding. Otgiruru - Born from those who were dark magic users in life, these vampiric African undead creatures usually resemble harmless stray dogs, however they will loudly call out with the intention of luring curious humans towards them if left unobserved for too long. All those that answer this call will be killed by the creatures, which will drink their blood and consume the soft tissue of their bodies. They are mentioned in the Herero folklore of Namibia. Otoroshi - Hairy and grotesque creatures, these Japanese beasts are not particularly dangerous unless provoked despite their frightening appearance. They sit atop the enormous gates that separate the realm of the divine from that of the living, and guard them viciously. If a potential intruder attempts to enter the gates, the creatures will crush them with their massive weight. Otso - Referred to as the rightful kings of the forest, these creatures resemble bears covered in overgrown plants, and are found in the woodlands of Finland. It is said that they were once humans who fled their communities and were eventually transformed by faery magic. According to local tradition, a ritual to appease the creatures should be carried out if a bear is killed. Ottine Swamp Monster – This hairy humanoid beast has been harassing the locals of its Texan territory since the 1920s, and will often creep up on cars and mobile homes and shake them violently. It is reported to throw rocks at vehicles or people that it sees, and also to be able to literally disappear into its swampy environment if it is seen or persecuted. Otyugh - Living primarily underground, these hideous omnivorous scavengers delight in consuming waste products such as dung and offal. They make their lairs in areas such as abandoned train stations, and will gather various pieces of refuse in which to bury themselves and lie in wait for prey. Despite living mostly off carrion, they will not turn down fresh meat when they have the chance. The first widely-known source mentioning their existence was modern fantasy literature. Oude Rode Ogen - During the late 17th century, children in Belgium started to become victims of a monstrous shapeshifter, and a large, dark-skinned humanoid was seen running away from the bodies of one of the victims, and so was shot at whereupon it morphed into a black hellhound. An innocent man was found in the vicinity, and was skinned alive without trial, thus leading to his soul becoming a wrathful spirit. This ghoulish spirit is referred to as a boogeyman in Dutch folklore. Ouktazaun - Created when a human dies in the throes of greed or when attempting to horde treasure, these ghosts are known from the mythology of the Buddhist religion, and are said to now be cursed to guard the treasure they were trying to steal. This is a lonely job, and so the creatures seduce mortals to keep them company, which then become ghosts themselves when they die. Ouphe - Although the elves pride themselves on their beauty and their intelligence, they have been known to sometimes give birth to bizarre and hideously deformed offspring. Originally, these children were trained to be slaves or servants to the others of their race, but they were eventually accepted and released out into the world. They then had children of their own, and thus the true members of new race were born. Ovda - Wandering the woods of Finland, these murderous faeries resemble naked humanoids with backwards-facing feet, and are known to attempt to convince woodsmen or hunters to dance with them, eventually either exhausting or tickling these victims to death. In Finnish-Russian folklore, the Ovda is regarded as a singular entity much like a nymph, which would pick up and kill humans that irked it using enormous whirlwinds. There is an area under its left arm which will kill it if prodded. Ovinnik - These faeries are found in the grain storage areas of farms, and are prone to burning buildings down by creating electrical sparks in dry corn. They are also said to be able to determine the luck and fortune of a farm once every year, by the heat of their touch. A warm touch means good luck, but a cold one means upcoming misery. Owenga - Born when someone dies while suffering from a broken heart, these ruthless African vampires resemble undead versions of their living selves, but with strikingly bloodshot eyes. They will carry out complicated and precise plans to kill and maim everyone who was involved in their heartbreak, and can only be stopped by staking them back into their graves and burning their bodies to ash. Owlbear - Resembling hybrids of owls and bears, these chimeric predators were first mentioned in modern fantasy literature, and are thought to be the results of botched experiments performed by misguided magic users. They live in caves and secluded forests, where they are known to mate for life and always live in pairs, and to hunt any creature larger than a mouse. Using their hybrid biology, they can 'hug' like bears and tear at their prey's flesh with their vicious beaks. Owlman of Mawnan - Resembling a vaguely owl-like creature with glowing red eyes and enormous pincers instead of feet, this supernatural monstrosity was first seen in its namesake English village in mid-1976 when it frightened two young girls on a family holiday, who later reported it to a local paranormal investigator. The monster appeared to have both a mouth and a beak, as well as large pointed ears. There is speculation that the initial report may have been a hoax, creating a tulpa. Ozaena - Named after the terrible stench that accompanies them, these aberrations are found in Greece and Spain, and are close relatives of the Kraken, and share the squid-like morphology of their cousins, but can resemble enormous masses of rotting flesh at first glance. They are usually blue in color, and are mostly recorded to be the size of large jellyfish, though some individuals have been known to grow large enough to attack ships. Ozark Howler - Resembling massive bears with the horns of a ram, these enormous creatures are common in North America. They are named for their loud, howling vocalizations, which can break glass and damage eardrums when heard. Pa Snake - Found in China, Greece and India where they are also known as Bashe and Cyonoeides, these enormous blue serpentine dragons are known to hunt elephants by lying in wait in lakes and rivers, and ambushing their prey before grabbing them by the trunk and dragging them beneath the water. After one to three years to digestion, they will spit out the bleached bones of the elephants. Eating the flesh of a Pa Snake is known to cure lung and heart ailments such as tuberculosis. Paakniwat - Also known as 'water-babies', these horrific Native American beings are the undead manifestations of babies who were deemed too weak or sickly, and so were drowned in lakes and rivers at an early age. They make loud cries akin to living infants, which attracts victims towards the water's edge, whom the creatures swiftly drown and eat. Some legends suggest an alternative origin, in which they are simply aquatic faeries or merfolk that mimic the appearance and sounds of human babies. Paasselkä Devil - Fiery magnetic anomalies thought to be related to will-o-the-wisps, these balls of green flame appear in the lakes and swampy forests of their namesake area in Finland. This area is notable because it is formed from a meteoric crater, and so some have speculated that the lights may have an alien or possibly demonic origin. They behave as if they are conscious, following fishermen's boats and evading the light of torches. Pabilsaĝ - Worshiped as deities in the ancient Middle East, these mighty warriors have the lower parts of bulls or horses and the deadly tails of scorpions. They are well-known for their archery skills, and are said to ferried gifts to and from the gods, as well as protecting certain cities. Pacific Northwest Tree Octopus - This endangered species of cephalopod possesses the rare ability to survive on land, and clambers among the trees of North America using this. However, they must still return to shallow pools of water in order to spawn and breed, and the young are born as aquatic individuals before they mature. These animals are officially considered be endangered because they are hunted by sasquatches, and are used in some human clothing products. Pain Eater - These psychic entities can enter the subconscious minds of their victims by touching their foreheads, and will appear as kindly old men in the ensuing hallucinations. They will attempt to persuade the hypnotised individual to either harm themselves or others. They are clearly sentient, though are classified as monsters because of their invariably malevolent intentions. Painajainen - Also known as Linchettos, these Italian faeries resemble diminutive white horses, and are usually found in the Alps mountain range where they can live for up to 4,000 years if they are not forcibly killed. Although they never harm or kidnap their victims, they take great pleasure in tormenting human children with horrific nightmares. The only way to prevent this from happening is to place a piece of a broom or some iron underneath the pillows of vulnerable children. Paiyuk - Sometimes regarded as aquatic variants of wendigos, these malign North American monsters resemble elk or moose covered in shaggy hair, and live in secluded lakes and rivers. They are believed to have supernatural powers in the folklore of the local shamans, and are known to prey on the flesh of unwary passersby. Pal Rai Yuk - Resembling large dragons with six limbs and multiple canine heads, these bizarre Alaskan aberrations feed on fish and sailors using their long, prehensile tongues. Their bodies are covered in thick fur, and they are thought to have multiple stomachs to digest their food. They are sometimes thought to be demonic in origin, because they can be summoned by dark magic users to attack their enemies. Palis - These bloodsucking creatures dwell beneath the sands of the Iranian deserts, and use their prehensile tongues to lick the soles of travelers' feet until they bleed. The monsters then feed on this blood, and will sometimes drag the person beneath the sand dunes if enough blood is not produced. However, the beasts have an adverse reaction to exposure to sunlight. Palulukon - Regarded as the oldest members of the same species as the famous Quetzalcoatl, these aquatic feathered dragons are referred to as the bringers of rain in the cosmology of North American mythology. If they were mistreated or neglected, they will cause devastating earthquakes and cause rivers to dry up, as well as producing drought by preventing rain from falling. Some researchers refer to them 'carrying a cosmic ocean' on their backs. Pamarindo - Exclusively found in the Gemona del Friuli region of North Italy, these evil dwarfish faeries resemble obese humanoids less than one meter tall, and wear pointed copper hats and mountain shoes. Any stones thrown at them will bounce back. Despite their corpulence, they can move at incredible speeds, and are known to whistle loudly with the intention of attracting herds of goats to run behind them, which they will then lead off cliffs in order to feed on their corpses. Pama-Yawa - Stalking the thick jungles of South America and hunting tapirs, these predatory cats are well-known for their dappled grey coats that act as effective camouflage. They are some of the largest common predatory cats, and can reach lengths of up to seven feet. Pamba - Covered in the blood of their victims, these sickening lake monsters are found in the waterways of Tanzania and other African territories, and are known to be so large that they can easily swallow canoes whole. As they swim, the water around them turns bright red with the blood that constantly drips off their bodies. Very little is known about their actual appearance, and so the above depiction is highly speculative. Pandora's Box - According to ancient Greek myth, Pandora was the first woman on Earth, and she was given responsibility for a box containing the first demons and evil entities. Although she was originally capable of keeping the box shut, a corrupted deity persuaded her to open the container, and thus released evil into the world. Nowadays, copies of the box are used to trap and imprison powerful demons and entities. Panotti - Living in Southern Asia and Iran, these incredibly strange humanoids have massive ears that they can use to shield themselves against cold conditions. They have remarkable muscular control over these massive flaps of skin, and are even known to sometimes use them to lift off the ground and fly for short periods. Papa Bois - Found in the forests of Trinidad and Tobago, this Caribbean spirit acts as the powerful protector of all the flora and fauna around it, and is known to normally manifest as a stocky hairy humanoid with hooves instead of feet and a beard made from leaves. Although it normally prefers to remain unnoticed in order to silently watch hunters and explorers, or to play magical tricks, it must be greeted politely when it is encountered, and one must not stare at its hooves. Papa-Figo - Originally the ghosts of severely ill people who developed a strange belief that consuming the blood and livers of other humans could cure them, these Brazilian bogeymen resemble tall men who carry large sacks. They can sense the presence of lying children, and will track them down and kill them, placing their entrails in their bags. Some reports say that they can shapeshift into birds of prey. Paparrasolla - Terrifying winged bogeymen, these Spanish monsters are said to hunt and eventually silence children that they view to be irritating. They are usually found nesting in dark and abandoned buildings such as church towers or disused attics, and they have been said to use windows to swoop down from overnight. Papinijuwari - These one-eyed giants are found in caves in the Australian Outback, and are often seen carrying their blazing blue lanterns at night. They are said to feed on the bodies of the dead and the souls of the sick, which they locate using their superior sense of smell. Once they have found their prey, they will drain their souls over a long period, leaving no identifiable wounds before the victim completely wastes away. Papstesel - Allegedly found dead in the Italian River Tiber in 1496, this bizarre hybrid humanoid was said to have a donkey's head, a woman's torso covered in scales, mis-matched limbs and a structure resembling a demonic mask over its rump. Some researchers have claimed that the unique aberration was a result of the disastrous rule of Pope Alexander VI, who was said to have brought endless misfortunes upon the city of Rome. The pamphlet in which it was first depicted was meant to be satirical. Paraná Creature - Discovered by firefighters in Paraguay's Paraná River on October 21 of 2015, this bizarre creature was described as having a body covered in wrinkled skin with humanoid arms and the face and tail of a monkey or another primate. Several photographs were taken of the corpse, and these were analysed by medical examiners, who were apparently unable to determine what it was. Some researchers have suggested that it was related to the Chupacabra or a hairy humanoid of some kind. Parandrus - Resembling a large and wooly deer, these mammals are found in secluded areas of Africa, and are able to change the color of their fur in order to blend in with the environment. They are roughly the size of oxen, and their meat has recently become highly demanded on the magical black market. Pard - The fastest land animals on record, these feline predators are found in the grasslands of Africa and India, where they hunt large animals in packs. Because they are so fast, it is said that they are incapable of being completely still for any amount of time, and will vibrate furiously when stood in one space. Supposedly, leopards are the offspring of lions and these cats. Pardalokampoi - Mentioned in the literature and folklore of the Etruscan people of ancient Italy, these hybrid creatures resemble leopards with the hindquarters of large fish, and are known to hunt and kill merfolk. They are closely related to Leokampoi, and other strange creatures that resemble aquatic felines, such as sea griffins. Pareas - Associated with the Roman god of healing, these Libyan serpents are well-known for their gentle and harmless bite, and also their distinctive dark red eyes. They are known to move with their head and neck deliberately held away from the ground, which led ancient scholars to believe that it may represent what the Eden serpent looked like before it was cursed. Pareidolia - Slender beings in their true forms, these creatures are masters of camouflage, and are often just attributed to tricks of the mind when seen. They enjoy watching people, and can cause hallucinations and psychotic behavior in those that they deem to be threats. Parlangua - Lurking in the swamps and bogs of North America or Louisiana, these crocodile-like humanoids have flashing red eyes and a bulletproof scaly hide. They are thought to be related to hombre caiman and frogmen, though this relation is currently unconfirmed due to lack of research on the creatures. Some individuals of the species have long tails that can be used as weapons. Partridge Creek Monster - Covered in jet-black feathers, these monstrous relict dinosaurs are found in their namesake area on the border of Canada and Alaska, and were first recorded in 1903 when an individual snatched up a moose being hunted by two witnesses. They are thought to be related either to the extinct ceratosaurs, or early forms of the more famous tyrannosaurs. The massive tracks that they leave behind often simply stop in front of high cliffs, suggesting a prodigious leaping ability. Pascagoula Elephant Man – Some of the strangest ultraterrestrials known, these aliens were sighted in 1973, when they abducted two fishermen from North America and examined their body structures using a large eye-like device. They were described as having wrinkled skin like that of an elephant, and crab-like claws in place of hands. They apparently had small slits for mouths and three triangular prongs on their faces. Pasichnyk - Protective faeries, these Ukrainian creatures live in and around beehives, and will protect these structures and those that tend to them with their lives. During local festivals surrounding the extraction of honey from the hives, an offering is made to the beings to prevent them from becoming vengeful and dangerous. Pastinaca - First mentioned in Greek folklore and then later appearing in numerous medieval bestiaries, these enormous weasels are larger than elephants, and are found in vast grassland areas. They are said to emit a scent so noxious that it can kill plants and poison animals that come too close to it. This is likely a variety of pheromone-based defense. Pasuk - Utilised as familiars by Ecuadorian dark magic users or malevolent shamans, these South American demons resemble ordinary tarantulas to those who are not magically-inclined, and are often sent to lurk outside the homes of victims bewitched by their shaman masters. If a healing shaman arrives to try and cure the bewitched person, the spider demon willl attempt to throw invisible poison darts at the victim faster than the shaman can cure them, with the intention of killing them. Patagon - First discovered in 1520 by European settlers who landed in Chile and Argentina, these enormous South American giants were described as being so tall that ordinary men only reached up to their waists, and their children were said to be at least 9ft tall. They were given the name of Patagoni because of their large and misshapen feet, of which prints were often seen on the beaches where the settlers landed. The giants were depicted as savage and naked, needing nine men to fell them. Patagonian Walrus - Unusual South American aquatic mammals, these endangered creatures are thought to be descendants of a relic population of prehistoric walruses or primitive whales. They are notable for the long tails that they have in place of the flippers that are seen in regular walruses, and are often mistaken for 'horned sea monsters'. Patasola - Protective of nature and forest animals, these carnivorous South American vampires lurk deep within jungles, and will attempt to lure unwary travelers away from the path using their seductive beauty. However, when the traveler is taken deep enough into the forest and away from potential rescue, the monsters will reveal their true forms as one-legged humanoids with a savage lust for human flesh and blood. Patupaiarehe - Pale and ethereal, these uncanny faeries are found in the mountains and forests of New Zealand, and the beautiful music that they produce from pipes and flutes is often heard in their habitat. They are well-known for their skill at weaving, and are said to have been witnessed fishing with intricate nets in ancient times. However, due to the human desire for their skills, the Patupaiarehe have been pushed to near-extinction. Pavaró - Bizarre relatives of the cynocephali, these elemental guardian faeries are found in bean and pea fields all across Italy, and are known to violently protect the environments in which they live, using enormous sickles to slash the legs of children who attempt to steal beans. They resemble dog-headed humanoids with absurdly long arms, which can easily stretch over the entirety of fields, and are tipped with claws. Despite their deadly nature, they are also known to sing like birds. Pavuchky - Resembling small spiders that glow with bright sunlight, these miraculous arachnids are known from the Christmas stories of Eastern Europe. A particular story tells of a poor family who managed to procure a Christmas tree, but could not afford to decorate it. Overnight, one of these spiders spun webs all over it, and these webs turned into gold and silver when the animal's light touched them, which inspired others to fashion tinsel to hang on their own trees. Pazuzu - Often assumed to a be a Judaeo-Christian demon due to the popularity of modern films such as the Exorcist, this hybrid demon is actually first spoken of in the Mesopotamian folklore of the Middle East, in which it is regarded as the king of the demons and the bringer of storms, droughts and locusts. Its image is often used in apotropaic amulets, as its presence is believed to be strong enough to ward away other demons and evil spirits, specifically Lamashtu. Pazuzu - These evil spirits were worshipped by Babylonian culture, mostly because their presence scares away other demons and monsters. They are found mostly in Southwestern areas, and fly using grasshopper-like wings. They are capable of possessing people, as well as injecting prey items with powerful venom from their scorpion-like tail. Pé De Garrafa - Named after the literal translation for 'bottle-foot' in their local Brazilian language, these hopping South American aberrations are known to emit screeching cries that often imitate the screams of wounded humans, in order to lure passersby into the jungle. If hunters follow these shrieks, the sounds will repeatedly change in direction of origin in order to confuse and disorientate their quarry. They are thought to be related to the mapinguari. Pebon - Also known as 'Pe-Ben' in North American Abenaki mythology, this wintery elemental spirit is sometimes referred to as a dark magic user due to its abilities and how it uses them, posing as a storyteller and then putting its audience into a deep sleep using its siren-like hypnotic voice. It appears to represent the Winter in the surrounding folklore, appearing during the late months of the year and then being forced to retreat to the North by the appearance of Niben, the spirit of Summer. Pech - First mentioned in Scottish mythology, this race of faeries can be found underground, where they build small but sustainable villages in cave systems. They are known to be enormously physically strong despite their slender frame, and can break metal with ease using simply their fists. Pecu - Originally descended from the hideously deformed and cursed child of a Spanish thief, these monstrous winged humanoids were born when the child murdered a classmate and assaulted a teacher, and was transformed into a monster as punishment. They emit screeching cries for which they are named, and foretell the number of years left before those around them will be able to marry. The creatures feed on the pain that these long waits cause. Peisht - Often bearing a resemblance to true European dragons or crocodiles, these monstrous reptiles are mentioned in the folklore of lake-side areas across Britain. Despite spending most of their time submerged in lakes or swamps, they still have flaming breath that can destroy entire towns with its sweltering heat. The flames can burn the flesh from the bones of human victims. Peix Nicolau - Considered to be a bad omen for all those that catch sight of it, this merfolk-like creature is thought to have been created from a young boy named Nicolau who was obsessed with swimming and diving, annoying his parents to such a degree that his mother put a curse on him to transform him into a half-fish creature. Unlike other merfolk, he seems to be semi-aquatic, sometimes moving onto land to see if anything has changed since he left the surface world. He rules other merfolk. Pelesit - Capable of shapeshifting into the form of a locust or a grasshopper, these Malaysian demons are usually kept as pets by dark magic users. However, spending a prolonged period of time around them will gradually corrupt the owner's soul and transform them into a demon themselves. Not only this, but the creatures also feed on human blood under the cover of night. Peluda - Said to have been common in and around rivers in medieval France, these dragons are unique for their specially adapted covering of quills and tail that can fire these spikes like darts. They are capable of spitting searing hot stomach acid from their mouths as a defense mechanism, as well as swinging their tails with devastating effect. It is thought that their only weakness is the patch without quills at the end of their tail. Penanggalan - Known from Asia, these vampiric witches are capable of detaching their head and internal organs at night to feed on the blood of newborn babies or other weaker people. When they want to become a normal human again, they immerse their organs in vinegar to help shrink them back to size. As a result, the creatures can often be detected by the smell of vinegar. Peñascosa Alien - The Spanish Alguacil family were working in a field in the aforementioned area in Albacete when a metallic, hat-shaped UFO descended from the skies and landed using four legs. Two ultraterrestrials emerged, described as tall, blonde alien humanoids wearing metallic suits and lacking mouths. They never communicated with the humans and refused to take food offered to them, and are said to have remained in the area for two days before taking off again and vanishing. Penates - Originally said to preside only over the storerooms of their resident houses, these ancient Roman deities have since broadened their focus to protecting the entire house, and are worshipped by the occupants by sacrificing portions of each meal to them at the hearth. Similar to brownies and other household faeries, they will perform domestic labour for the housekeepers overnight if they are treated well. They are unaffected by sunlight, but simply choose to live nocturnally. Penchapechi - Appearing as monstrous owl-like creatures, these unique Indian ghosts stalk lonely travelers through the forests of Bengal, waiting until they are completely alone and defenceless before killing them and eating their bodies. Unlike other ghosts, they are known to physically consume the corpses of their victims in a manner more akin to vampires or ghouls, suggesting that they may not actually be conventional ghosts. Penghou - Resembling a mid-sized black dog with no tail and a human-like face, these Japanese tree spirits are found in the centers of certain trees, and are exposed when the trees are cut down. It is said that their meat is sweet and soft, and is often prepared as a delicacy by loggers in local areas. They are sometimes classified as tsukumogami because they have evolved from the essence of the trees themselves. Pérák - Similar to Spring-Heeled Jack, this strange entity was known from Prague during the 1930s, when it was said jump inhuman distances to scare and pester passersby. Despite its clearly supernatural origin, it appears to use technology and physics to achieve its superhuman feats rather than magic. It has glowing red eyes and uses bizarre weapons that resemble iron feathers. Perchta - Leading the famous Wild Hunt across Germany during Christmastime, these strange godlike faeries are usually seen wearing horned masks that resemble the faces of the Krampus. They can sense if a child has been well-behaved over the year, and will reward them with silver coins if they have been. However, if they have not been kind and polite, the beings will cut their bellies open and fill them with straw and rocks. Père Malfait - Also known as 'le Père de Mille Feuilles', this terrifying North American elemental is known from the folklore of the Cajun and Acadian people, and is said to dwell in the marshy terrain of the bayous, viciously attacking anyone who harms the flora or fauna of its swampy habitat. It usually appears as a towering humanoid covered in saturated moss or decaying leaves, and its attacks became much more common when the bayous became more densely inhabited by human settlers. Perelesnyk - Hideous demons akin to incubi and succubi, these Slavic shapeshifters enter the houses of grieving women during particular times of the year, and assume the forms of their dead spouses to seduce them and feed on their souls. In their true forms, they resemble humanoid dragons covered in blazing flames or magma. Peri - Small and fast, these angelic djinn are spoken of in the Hindu mythology of the Middle-East, in which they are referred to as lacking the intelligence needed to differentiate between good and evil. Because of this, they were often kept imprisoned in iron cages by deities or daevas. There is some speculation that they are angels atoning for past misdeeds. Perit - Punishing anyone who is wasteful with food supplies by disfiguring them and turning them into hideous hunchbacked versions of their former selves, these Albanian mountain nymphs resemble female figures clad in white clothing. They are found in thick forests, but will venture down to secluded villages to mete out their harsh retribution. Peruvian Alien - Although not officially known to be of another planet or to be ultraterrestrial, this creature is so named due to its resemblance to the legendary grays and the melon-heads of North America. These creatures have not been seen living in the Peruvian area in which the remains were discovered in 2011, which suggests that the population of the beings may be extinct. There are some rumors that the remains may represent a human child who had undergone the 'cradle-binding' process, though these remain unsupported Peryton - Seeming to have the body and head of a stag, these pterosaurs are actually closely related to nyctosaurus, and are found above the sunken ruins of Atlantis. They are deadly predators, and will hunt humans viciously and tenaciously. It is said that will cast a human shadow until they kill someone for the first time, at which point their shadow will be their own. Pesanta - Armed with enormous claws made of heavy steel, these shaggy black hellhounds are known from the culture of certain Spanish areas, and are known to break into the houses of sleeping victims, perching on their chests and suffocating them. They are thought to feed on the life energy of their victims, in a similar manner to succubi or other demons associated with sleep paralysis. Their metal paws have large holes in them which prevent them from stealing their victims' property. Pesta - Norwegian hags, these evil spirits will roam secluded villages and farmlands, draped in deathly black robes and carrying a rusted implement such as a pitchfork. They are said to have represented the spread of the black death in local folklore, and are known to have the ability to induce the symptoms of the disease in those that cross them. Peter Pan - Despite his fairy-tale reputation, this entity is actually a malevolent faery formed from the soul of a young boy who became obsessed with entering the faery realm. He now behaves in a similar manner to the erlkings, appearing to young children and instilling the same desires that he once had, and then spiriting them away his world. Petermännchen - Acting as the keepers and watchmen of ancient German castles, these loyal household faeries are related to brownies and kobolds, and usually appear as diminutive humanoids in cavalier-like clothing carrying either keys or swords and lanterns. They will reward humans that they view as honest and good, but will make nuisances of themselves to drive away thieves or potential intruders. A legend says that they were once the servants of pagan gods, and refused to leave their posts. Peteu - Appearing ferocious in both temperament and size, these strange French birds actually owe their enormous stature to the large amount of feathers and muscle that covers their tiny skeletons. They have whip-like sensory feathers near to their beaks, and hunt by diving down onto their unsuspecting prey, which can be as large as a cow. Their loud wing-beats incite fear and unease in those around them. Petsuchos - Originally blessed crocodiles that were mummified as a sacrifice to the Egyptian god Sobek, these undead reptilians were resurrected by the god that they were killed for. They stalk villages, and hunt down those who do not worship Sobek, spreading plagues with their bites. Peuchen - This shapeshifting beast resembles a winged serpent in its true form, though can become anything else that it desires to be. It is mostly found in Chile and other South American areas, where it drains blood from both human and animal victims. It has the ability to paralyze people by looking at them. Pey - Found on battlefields and areas of conflict across India and Sri Lanka, these cannibalistic humanoids resemble normal humans at first glance, and can often be seen scavenging the bodies of fallen soldiers and innocent bystanders caught in the conflict. They will drain the corpses of blood while on site, and will then take the exsanguinated remains back to their dwellings to cook and eat them. Phantasm - Often equated with insanity or panic in the mythologies of France and Latin territories, these awful specters are the visible manifestations of tortured souls that are incapable of doing physical damage to their victims. However, the cloaked figures have been known to cause loss of sanity and severe brain damage to those who get close to them. Phantom - These restless spirits are mostly harmless, and will haunt very specific locations, often their own graves or death sites. They will replay the same set of events over and over, with only minor differences and always the same outcome. Unlike death echoes, these beings can be communicated with, and dissuaded from their actions. Phantom Attacker - Invisible and incorporeal beings, these strange creatures will viciously attack and harass random victims under the cover of night. They do this to take away the victims' feelings of safety and security in their daily lives, and then feed on the fear that this creates. As an extension of this, the victims will feel an intense terror for the rest of their lives, that seems unexplainable to them and those around them. Phantom Barber - Breaking into people's houses by making fine slits in their curtains, these strange North American phantom attackers are so-named because of their habit of cutting and stealing locks of their victims' hair. They are not usually violent, though some reports recount victims being either chloroformed or beaten unconscious before having a single section of their hair stolen. This obsession with hair suggests that the beings may be dark magic users. Phantom Chimp - Appearing in the bedroom of a North American child during the only recorded encounter, this peculiar creature resembles a chimpanzee dressed in blue overalls, and is thought to somehow have been associated with ultraterrestrial activity. It attacked its young victim by tickling them, which is a feature that it has in common with a number of faeries, suggesting a link between the two creatures. Phantom Clown - First reported in May of 1981 across the North American state of Massachusetts, these disturbing beings are thought to be related to Men in Black and other phantom attackers, and usually take on the forms of ghastly clowns, or obviously dangerous humans dressed like said entertainers. They were often associated with cars and vehicles, and were said to attempt to lure children into the backs of these vans. Although they were seen by multiple children, no adult ever witnessed them. There was another rash of sightings of the creatures, this time stretching across the whole world, in late 2016. Phantom Fungus - Roaming the deep underground caverns of the world, these monstrous three-legged organisms use their root-like feet to detect movement on the floors of the caves and their long tentacles to suddenly snatch prey towards their gaping maws. Their main ability is to completely vanish from sight, remaining invisible until they are directly behind their prey, at which point they will mortally wound them with their fangs before squatting over the corpse and draining it of nutrients. Phantom Helicopter - In the 1970s, these mysterious black vehicles were frequently seen flying over the sites of unexplainable phenomena such as cattle mutilations and crop circles. They resemble military helicopters, and are without any identification marks save for their stark black color. Government officials have denied their involvement with these strange aircraft, leading some to suggest that they may be demonic in nature. Phantom Hitchhiker - Representing the lonesome souls of people who died in road accidents, these ghosts are said to stand by the sides of roads and ask to be driven back to their 'home' before suddenly vanishing. This home address will either later lead to the driver discovering that the passenger died years ago, or simply lead them to an abandoned and derelict house. Phantom Kangaroo - First sighted in 1899, these bizarre out-of-place marsupials resemble kangaroos or wallabies, though are clearly not the same animals due to their carnivorous diet. They were originally only recorded in North America, though have since spread to areas such as Britain. There have been reports of the creatures hunting and killing large animals such as dogs. Phantom Social Worker - Truly frightening relatives of the Men in Black mentioned in modern urban legends from Britain and North America, these bizarre beings usually pose as social workers or police, and will attempt to abduct children from their parents by making false claims of abuse. They usually travel in groups of three, with two female individuals and a male in a supervisory role. A police investigation was set up in 1990, but it was disbanded after no arrests were made. Phantom Stalker - Appearing as pillars of flame in their true forms, these monstrous elementals normally assume the appearances of muscular humanoids with large eyes and fiery red skin when they are summoned to our plane of existence by magic users. Encountering a phantom stalker is very unlikely unless the creature is under the control of a dark magic user and being forced to do their bidding. In combat, they will attempt to grab their opponents and pull them into their bodies to burn. Phantom Whistler - Stirring their victims into a state of hysteria, these bizarre North American phantom attackers produce long whistling sounds for which they are known, sometimes simple catcalls, but otherwise funeral dirges. After stalking their victims for a period of time and driving them to madness with these noises, the beings will send threatening phone calls and will start to make themselves visible. This pattern of behavior suggests a relation to the Men in Black. Phantome - Extremely similar if not identical to the Moongazer, these enormous Caribbean boogeymen tower over lonely country roads and wait for travelers to walk between their legs, before snapping their legs shut and suffocating them to death. The only warning before this sudden attack is a shrill whistling noise that they will emit before killing their victims. Like other paranormal entities, they live close to crossroads. Pharaoh - Worshipped as monarchs in ancient Egypt, these powerful demigods were political and religious leaders in Egyptian society, and were relied upon to declare wars and build monuments and temples devoted to deities. They would make the laws and conquer foreign territories, which would then fall under their control. Nowadays, however, the beings are forced to use cults as sources of worship rather than mainstream religion. Phaya Naga - Monstrous serpents, these animals can reach lengths of hundreds of feet long, and are black in color with two horn-like protrusions on their heads. Every year in late October, the creatures spit bright fireballs into the air as a mating display, and the local people offer sweet food to prevent them from entering their villages. They are mostly found in underwater caves in Thailand and other Southeast Asian territories. Philadelphia Tripod - Recorded by a single witness after an orb-like UFO sighting in 2009, this bizarre alien entity resembles a 3ft tall mollusk of some description, with sucker-like feet and a single bright blue eye. It seems to be cautious or afraid around humans, and will stamp its feet wildly in panic while making odd squeaking noises if it is cornered. When it was witnessed, it was observing a large electrical generator, which could imply that it served as reconnaissance for an ultraterrestrial race. Phipthere - Active predators, these aerial worms travel in groups, and seize other stratosphere-dwelling creatures using their powerful jaws. They have long fins on their bodies that resemble feathery wings, and are often mistaken for amphipteres because of these structures. They are able to survive at ground level for considerably longer than most aerial critters, which has resulted in them becoming confused with dragon legends. Phobetor - Held as the ruling deity of nightmares in the traditions of ancient Greek society, this terrifying being rules over a group of monstrous faeries known as the Oneiroi. It usually appears to its victims in their dreams as large animals or monsters, but can usually be found in one of the deepest areas of the Greek Underworld. Phoenix - Although these birds originated in ancient Greece, they are now found all around the world in small numbers, and are capable of regenerating themselves through burning their aged bodies. This process renders the animals practically immortal. When threatened, they can retaliate against attacks by producing extreme heat. Phonoi - Although they are usually associated with battlefields and warlike slaughter, these malicious Greek spirits actually represent murder and genocide outside of a lawful battle setting. They feed off rage and hatred within a community, and use this to create violence and antisocial behavior among those around them. Some researchers have suggested a connection to deities such as Ares. Phooka - These mischievous, mid-sized faeries will shapeshift into many different forms in order to perform cruel tricks on humans, such as becoming horses to lead riders astray. However, they will also help lost travelers, which means that they are considered benevolent, and their wrath can be placated by providing them with blackberries. Phorcides - Related to the graeae, but far more physically beautiful than the hideous hags, these winged faeries are thought to be the direct descendants of ancient Greek aquatic titans. They resemble hybrids of humans and swans, and are described as having fair skin and hair, as well as being capable of foreseeing the future and the destinies of those around them. Phorcys - Primordial and terrifying merfolk, these creatures are believed to be descended from an ancient Greek titan who represented the sea, and fathered many other legendary monsters. They have the tails of predatory fish, and the claws of vicious crabs or lobsters covered in spiny skin and armor. Piasa - Strange and terrifying creatures, these dragons are native to North America in very small numbers, and have faces that resemble those of humans. They snatch human sized prey from large open areas such as fields, and are known to roost in cave systems and cliffs. Piatek - Resembling wingless griffins, these Armenian predators use their powerful beaks to dismember prey items that they catch, though are generally docile towards other animals unless they are hungry. It seems that they are some of the rarest members of the griffin family, and very little is known about them. Picacu - Closely related to Pishacha, these ghoulish Indian creatures take on loosely feminine forms, and haunt cemeteries and graveyards in which they dig up and feast on the corpses of the dead. Very little is known about them, though they are thought to be able to possess humans that they encounter and drive them to madness, forcing them to commit heinous crimes and sins. Pied Piper - Dating back to at least the 1300s, this mysterious German entity uses an enchanted pipe to control the minds of those around it, be this rats or human children. It is said to have appeared at the village of Hamelin upon their request for a rat-catcher, but then to have taken the children in the same manner as the rats when it was denied payment. There is speculation that it may be a faery of some kind. Pig-Faced Lady - Thought by some to be an extremely mutated form of crones, these European beings are said to have originally been dark magic users that were cursed with an unholy mutation. It is said that they were given a choice to either appear as pig-like to their loved ones but normal to everyone else, or pig-like to everyone except their loved ones. If they decided to accept neither, they would appear as porcine to everyone. Pigman - Found in the British area of Cannock Chase as well as the North American locale of Vermont, these terrifying hybrid creatures resemble muscular humanoids with wiry hair, long claws and faces similar to those of pigs. One of them was first seen in Vermont in 1971, when a farmer heard noises from outside his house only to see a monstrous humanoid rummaging through his garbage, and sightings would continue as groups of witnesses saw the ogre-like thing scavenging carcasses and making loud squeals. Pihuechenyi - Monstrous South American vampires usually found lurking around isolated villages and settlements in Chile, these creatures resemble winged serpents or amphipteres, and are thought to be related to dragons and the Peuchen. They will fly over villages at night in an attempt to locate sleeping humans from which they will drain blood. There is some debate as to whether they are related to deities, seeing as they are sometimes referred to as gods in local mythology. Pikkepoot - Emerging from Dutch bodies of water at night and prowling around villages in search of children to snatch and devour, these hideous aquatic boogeymen are usually found in the Wilnis area of Utrecht in the Netherlands. Their existence is often used by parents to discourage their children from playing outside at night, especially near lakes or rivers. Very little information exists about their physical appearance. Pillywiggin - Usually sweet and jovial unlike most other faeries, these diminutive winged humanoids are often encountered around groups of flowers at the ends of gardens, and are the faery species that is most often depicted in Victorian illustration. Despite their curious and kind demeanor, they are extremely protective of their floral environment, and sometimes have insect-like features, possibly even adopting stinging abilities and swarming behavior if threatened. Pilou - A proud race of mouse-like faeries, these creatures live in the walls and alcoves of various old and decrepit farmhouses around France. They have large feet with which they make stamping noises to communicate, and inadvertently cause disturbances to the human communities nearby. When asked to stop making these noises, they have a tendency to become angry and spiteful, and make the noises louder. Piltdown Man - Resembling early humans, these hairy creatures are thought to have originally been spawned as tulpas as a result of a famous hoax that took place in 1912. They are akin in physiology to a grotesque hybrid of orangutans and humans, and are known to make crude clothes and use sticks and rocks as makeshift weapons. Small populations of the beasts live in England and Britain. Pinčiukas - Endlessly tricking and manipulating those who enter their swamp territory, these Lithuanian faeries enjoy the connotations of fear that they can bring by taking on the appearance of devilish humanoids. Although they may often appear monstrous, they are almost eerily beautiful in their true forms, and are usually benevolent despite their love of harmless frights and pranks. Pincoy - Closely related to the more well-known pincoya, these Chilean merfolk resemble humanoid sea lions, and are said to sing hypnotic songs that attract other supernatural sea creatures. Their faces appear akin to those of handsome human men, and they are often regarded as highly attractive, which may be a characteristic used to lure potential prey into the water. Pincoya - Chilean merfolk, these water spirits are said to be able to attract large quantities of fish and sea animals using their hypnotic dances. At certain seasons during the year, native humans in the area will watch the creatures dancing, and say that if they face towards the sea then there will be an abundance of fish. If they don't, then the seas will be empty. Pinocchio - Originally created as a puppet by a lonely Italian craftsman, the first member of this construct species was became well known in the fairy-tales of the 1800s. Nowadays, they are capable of shapeshifting into human form, though their flesh reverts back to wood and their noses grow longer if they lie to or deceive another person. Piot-Chan - Waging war on humanity on an almost comically small scale, these French faeries became extremely angry after gardeners continuously meddled with their habitat, and have since decided to sabotage agricultural work in any way possible, including using their freezing breath to kill plants and using enchanted flutes to command moles and earthworms to destroy gardens. They are sometimes called the 'Keepers of Slugs', and resemble goblin-like humanoids with the noses and claws of moles. Pippo - Appearing as either a Nazi aircraft or an Allied bomber, this bizarre phantom attacker terrorized Northern Italy during World War Two, and is believed to have gained its comical-sounding name from the frightening buzzing sound that it made. It would drop incendiary bombs and even poisoned food on villages, before vanishing without a trace and leaving only dead bodies and destruction in its wake. Some have speculated that it may have been a propaganda effort by the government of the time. Pirani Vampire - Formed from vegetables such as pumpkins and watermelons that are left outside under the light of the full moon, or kept for more than ten days or perhaps just for an extended period after Christmas Day, these unique vampires are known from the Gypsy folklore of the Balkans, and are said to somehow do harm to people and move on their own accord. Vampiric vegetables must be destroyed by throwing them into a vat of boiling water, scrubbing them with a broom and then burning them. Pirassoipi - Found in small herds across the expansive deserts of the Middle East, these curious unicorn-type herbivores resemble donkeys with two ornate horns on their foreheads, and a thick coat of woolly hair. They are usually roughly the size of mules, and they are known to have been previously domesticated by some local populations. Pisadeira - Resembling human women with red eyes and glowing green mouths, these horrific Brazilian demons attack people who attempt to sleep on a full stomach, and are capable of killing their victims unlike other succubi. They lurk on roofs and in rafters, ready to drop down on victims and press against their stomachs or chests, strangling them. If a victim survives, they will likely be attacked again and eventually killed. Pishacha - Haunting the cremation grounds and graveyards of India, these shadowy demons are known for their glowing red eyes and protruding veins that cover their bodies. They are capable of shapeshifting into any form that they desire, and can alter and feed off human emotions through possession. In order to keep the demons away, religious officials would give them a share of the food used in traditional ceremonies. Pishtaco - These South American monsters were traditionally regarded as a 'boogeyman' figure, and have a leech-like sucker for a tongue that allows them to drain the fat from a victim's body. In the modern day, these creatures mostly keep a low profile, though some of them have begun to offer their abilities as a miracle weight loss treatment. This currently seems harmless to the recipient. Piskie - Renowned tricksters, these British faeries delight in tormenting humans, and thus often choose to live in suburban areas such as gardens or local parks. Unlike boggarts or brownies, they are rarely ever found dwelling inside houses, and prefer to live in outdoors areas such as inside hollowed-out logs. They enjoy stealing horses and replacing children with changelings, and will often target people that they view as cruel or rude. Pitsen - Dwelling in derelict buildings in secluded forest locations across Siberia, these shapeshifting hairy humanoids can bring good luck to humans that they like, but will lead unwary travelers deep into the forests to their dooms. They usually resemble old and wise humans, but appear as bipedal apes in their true forms. Humans have married the shapeshifters, and then leave them when they discover their monstrous identities, only to have the luck that the creatures brought them disappear. Pixiu - Thought to be particularly important to those that are going through hardship, these magical Chinese hybrids are capable of drawing good luck and wealth from all directions. They are often represented in statues and talismans used by practitioners of Feng Shui. The females of the species have two antlers, but the males only have a single horn. Plaksy - Also known as 'snivelers' because of their sneering faces and constant jabbering vocalizations, these bizarre and frightening Russian hags visit the bedrooms of sleeping victims, and drain their life force in a similar manner to succubi. They cannot touch iron without being burnt, and placing a stone with a hole in the middle of it in the bed of a potential victim will ward off an attack. Planctae - Ancient Greek elementals, these creatures resemble massive humanoid rocks with various growths of coral and seaweed covering their bodies. They were said to lurk near to the terrifying monsters known as Scylla and Charybdis, and to force sailors to pass into their territory by changing the positions of their rocky bodies. Their name means 'wandering rocks'. Planetar - Members of an incredibly rare species of the holy warriors, these rare angels have emerald flesh bathed in heavenly light. They are said to act as the generals in armies of other angels and divine beings, and to prefer combat to diplomacy. Despite their celestial nature, they are known to help mortals in missions that involve great battles against demons. The first mention of their existence was in modern fantasy literature, which implies that they are a fairly new creation of the Judaeo-Christian God. Płanetnik - Terrifying Polish demons, these creatures bring stormy weather and dark clouds wherever they go, and damage the souls of any humans in their paths. They usually take the forms of old men, though have also been known to represent themselves as vipers or other snakes. Their victims often commit suicide due to their unhealthy souls. Plat-Eye - Found on lonely stretches of road throughout the Caribbean and North America, these enormous hellhounds appear to be made entirely of shadow, and their round eyes are often the only things that can be seen of them. As they approach human victims, their shadowy bodies will grow in size until they are large enough to envelop the human completely, who will then disappear inside them forever. Platnik - Bulgarian vampires with precise life-cycles, these undead creatures will reanimate as spirits immediately but will spend their first nine days of being in their graves. After this, they rise from their graves and will attack their family members for 40 days, aiming to drink enough blood to become a corporeal vampire resembling a humanoid with red eyes and no fingernails. Incorporeal Platniks can be killed by being struck by lightning, and corporeal individuals can be killed by any cut. Pleiadan - Often mistaken for angels, these supernaturally beautiful beings are thought to be the future descendants of Nordic aliens and other similar ultraterrestrials. They are telepathic and incredibly sensitive to the usage of magic in their vicinity, and have been known to possess human hosts in order to deliver messages warning humans of future events. In place of oxygen, they are capable of breathing in nitrogen gas and producing nitrogen oxide. Pleiades - Said to be the daughters of the Ancient Greek Titan Atlas and the nymph known as Pleione, these rainy elemental nymphs are known to have acted as tutors to the infant Dionysus along with the Hyades, and to have also been the companions of Artemis. After their Titan father was forced to carry the world on his back, all seven Pleiades comitted suicide out of both grief and a need to escape the hunter Orion, and were immortalised by Zeus as a well-known cluster of stars. Plurigibbosus - Sometimes referred to as 'many humped sea monsters', these mysterious cetaceans are found in temperate waters all around the world, and are thought to represent surviving individuals from prehistoric Basilosaurus-like groups. The humps on their backs are used to store water and keep buoyancy in rough water conditions, as well as sometimes for display or streamlining. Pocong - In Malaysian culture, the shroud that the dead are wrapped in should be untied before they are buried, and if this is not done the corpses will rise again as vengeful spirits. Because they are still covered in cloth, they cannot move properly, and so will hop around in a manner similar to the jiangshi of Asia. This ability has sometimes been known to evolve into flight. Pogeyan - Large and grey, these strange cats are found in the grasslands or mountainous forest areas of India, and are referred to as 'mist cats' in the local language. They are known to hunt and kill human children, using their plainly-colored pelts to camouflage themselves against the thick trees of their habitat. Poisson Chevalier - Closely resembling knights in full armour across equine steeds, these curious merfolk are related to ichthyocentaurs, and are capable of manipulating the weather and atmospheric conditions in their vicinity. They are attested to in French mythology, in which it is said that a member of the species was slain by King Arthur. Pokey Hokey - Similar to goblins and boggarts, these English household faeries are often observed to cause violent knocking sounds from the insides of walls and produce poltergeist-like activity. They enjoy scaring the occupants of their houses, and are considered to be bogeymen. Polevik - Mirroring dirt and wheat with their flesh and hair, these Russian faeries are often found in cornfields and wear white clothes that look like those of ancient farmers. They have the ability to tell the future, as well as changing their size depending on the surroundings and moving at breakneck speeds. It is said that their appearance foretells bad fortune, and that they enjoy leading farmers astray in their own fields. Polisun - Sometimes choosing to appear as young human children, though really resembling enormous werewolves with plantlike features, these Slavic faeries control wolves and other predators in their vicinity. Despite their monstrous appearance, they are not malevolent, and are often depicted accompanying the traditional Saint George. Pollo Maligno - Punishing those who engage in antisocial behavior such as gambling and lechery in South America, these monstrous birds are thought to either be demonic in origin or related to faeries. They are mostly nocturnal, and will chase their human targets deep into forests and dangerous terrain, where they will devour them. Polong - These Malaysian demons are created by dark magic users through placing the blood of a murdered victim into a bottle and bringing it to life using incantations and spells. They are then often used to attack those who the magic user has a grudge against, and these victims will be left covered in scratches and bleeding from the mouth. The demon will feed on the blood of its master, and will become furious and destructive if it is not allowed to feed. Poltergeist - These invisible, incorporeal ghosts have the ability to effect the physical world, and often do so with disastrous consequences for the living. They seem to have a degree of intelligence, as they can understand what is going around them. There are some cases of these ghosts following homeowners to a different location. Poludnica - Haunting the fields of Eastern Europe, these phantoms are said to take on the form of bedraggled old hags and whirling clouds of dust, and will target human victims at midday. They are known to target those who summoned them, whom they will ask impossibly hard questions, and decapitate them with a sickle if they get the incorrect answer. In order to summon them, a ritual must be carried out and then a large fire started in the vicinity. Polyphemus - One of the many monstrous children of the deity known as Poseidon, this powerful cyclops resembles an enormous humanoid with a single eye in the middle of its head, and was notoriously defeated by Odysseus. The Ancient Greek hero tricked the giant into agreeing to eat him last of the many hostages that the monster had taken, and then stabbed him in the eye while he was asleep. Despite allegations that this individual is related to nymphs, there is no evidence for this. Polypus - Sparsely depicted on the seafaring maps of medieval Europe and Sweden, these aberrant arthropods resemble enormous lobsters, and are known to use their massive pincers to snatch sailors off traveling boats in order to drag them down to their sea-cave lairs. Akin to krakens and other cephalopods, they are capable of changing the color of their skin (or shells) to match their surroundings. Like regular lobsters, they grow as they age, and their size is explained by their long lifespan. Pombéro - Capable of becoming invisible as well as slipping through impossibly small spaces, these stealthy South American faeries are usually known as harmless troublemakers, stealing cattle and making horses throw their riders off. They produce whistling sounds akin to those of nocturnal birds, and can be appeased by offerings of rum and cigars, which will discourage them from wreaking havoc on a particular household. Pomórnik - Killing their prey using their bulky paws to strike them in the hearts, these enormous, spiny predators are found in the thick temperate forests of Poland, and created mass hysteria after they began raids on local farms in 2004. Due to the masses of decapitated livestock that they leave in their wake, they have sometimes been referred to as the 'Polish Chupacabra'. Pompeiian - Deriving their name from the historical village in which the first of their kind were formed, these undead monstrosities are created when a human body and soul is encased in volcanic ash. Although they move slowly, they have crushing physical strength and resilience to damage because of their stony covering. They feed on the lifespan of their human victims, aging them prematurely and drastically. Pongo - Rapacious hairy humanoids, these shapeshifting African creatures appear similar to humanoid gorillas in their true forms, and are known to lure humans into the jungle, where they are viciously attacked. They will produce hybrid children that look human, though are constantly pressured with cannibalistic and violent urges from their pongo genetics. Pontianak - These Malaysian ghosts were once women who died in childbirth, and their spirits are now followed by the sound of a crying baby. They will often appear as beautiful women with bloodstains on their dresses, and will savagely attack passers-by using long claws. The ghost will then feed on the internal organs and eyes of the victim. Pope Lick Monster - This demonic monster is the reincarnated form of a circus freak who was exiled and shunned, and has now returned to haunt his namesake town. His features have been warped into a caprine shape, and he now uses voice mimicry, hypnosis and a bloodstained axe to lure passersby to their deaths. Several hunters have fallen victim to this creature because of their lack of preparation. Popobawa - These bat-like demons will attack sleeping residents of Zanzibar, and may target all members of a specific household before moving onto another. They can assume the form of a human or an animal, but are always distinguishable by their sulphuric odor. Their attacks mostly consist of physical assault, though they will sometimes also use poltergeist-like capabilities. Poreskoro - Hideous demonic aberrations believed to have been born when the King of Demons was attacked and an attempt was made to forcibly sterilise him, these Romanian beasts are found in the Czech Republic and Europe, where they spread all manner of fatal diseases. They are thought to be the physical manifestation of pestilence, and have the ability to control all of the other Children of Ana. Although their appearance changes regularly, they usually resemble chimeric hybrids of many animals. Poroniec - Mentioned in the folklore of Slavic regions, these small but malicious demons are born from the souls of stillborn fetuses (or the improperly buried remains of children), and are known to menace pregnant women who break cultural taboos. They draw their disproportionate power from the potential for an unlived life that they possess, due to their tragic origins. If the bodies of unborn babies are buried on the threshold of a house, they will become kłobuk instead of Poroniec. Potercha - Usually dwelling in deep rivers and lakes all across Ukraine and other Slavic territories, these aquatic undead beings are thought to be the savage ghosts of unbaptized children. They usually resemble rotting versions of their living selves, though have been known to assume the forms of terrifying winged birds as well. Poterczuk - Formed from the demonic souls of victims of violent deaths, these Slavic monsters resemble skeletal humanoids with the claws of large birds and the heads of goats. They will attack lonely travelers, breaking their spines and dragging them through the wilderness. If they can keep their victims alive for three days, they are allowed to pass on to the Afterlife. Poti Wolo - Detailed in the Indonesian folklore of the Manggarai of Western Flores, these hairy humanoid demons resemble bulky and tall orangutans, which live in the trees and emit a smell much like that of a goat. Sometimes said to be shapeshifting creatures, they are said to have been responsible for devouring the first humans placed on Earth. There are some stories of humans marrying these creatures and producing hybrid children, as well as them providing dark magic for witches to use. Potkoorok - Relatively harmless and inoffensive frog-like humanoids, these freshwater merbeings are found in ponds and swamps across Australia, and resemble slimy creatures with massive webbed feet and pear-shaped bodies. They are rarely encountered during Aboriginal Dreamtime events, and are extremely shy, actively hiding away from potential human observers. Potopelnyk - Lurking in lakes and swamps, these bloated undead beings are thought to represent the vengeful spirits of fishermen and sailors that died in maritime accidents. They are referred to in Ukrainian and Slavic mythology, and the females of the species are rusalka-like seductresses that will lure innocent passersby into the water. Potopelnytsia - Dwelling in and around ponds and rivers, these saturated undead are said to be the ghosts of young human women who were drowned, possibly by a malevolent aquatic faery. They act as companions and reconnaissance for said faeries, which are sometimes equated with the freshwater merfolk seen in Russia. Sometimes, they amass in groups along with other aquatic undead beings. Potosi Sheepslayer - Responsible for the bizarre deaths and mutilation of 34 sheep owned by a Bolivian herder in 1968, this pugnacious little ultraterrestrial is said to have erected a net over one of the pens on the witness's farm before attacking and disemboweling the sheep using a hooked weapon. When the witness disturbed the alien, it threw the instrument at her and retracted the net into a radio-like device, only for the instrument to return to it like a boomerang and for it to fly away. Power - Tasked with defending our plane of existence from incursions from demons or evil spirits, as well as supervising the movement of matter in the universe, these warrior angels are often seen carrying large swords or weapons. They are responsible for locking evil deities or entities away in ethereal prisons and pocket dimensions. Prairie Fiend - Exhibited in a traveling menagerie in England during the Victorian period, these mighty beasts are thought to have originally come from North America, and resemble reddish cats with the heads of hippopotamuses. They have small ears like those of horses, and are thought by some to be related to the Nandi bear. Preta - Spoken of in Hindu and Buddhist culture, these ghosts are the spirits of humans who were greedy and deceitful in life, and so are afflicted with eternal hunger in death. They are not usually visible to the human eye, though can be perceived by people in particular states of mind. Priccolitsch - Although originally shepherds or farmers who were cursed by demons or dark magic users, these Romanian shapeshifters now transform into monstrous hounds if they remain outside overnight. They will be drawn to the nearest animals, usually their own livestock, and kill them in order to drink their blood. There is currently no cure for the curse. Principality - Assigned to guard communities and cities, these angels are above archangels in the grand hierarchy, and often wear crowns or carry scepters. They are said to inspire individual people within their towns or organizations into professions such as art or science, to help the locality advance in prestige. Prister - Monstrous whales, these creatures appear on several 16th maps of the world's oceans, and are often seen to blow ship-sinking streams of water out of their dual blowholes. They are also sometimes said to jump out of the water and onto the decks of the ships, swamping them instantly. These attacks can be repelled by playing trumpets, seeing as the creatures hate the sounds that they make, and also throwing barrels into the water to distract the beasts. Prospect Monolith - A 19-year-old witness was driving home through the North American locale of Prospect on January 27, 1977 when he saw a rectangular UFO hovering in the sky before his car stopped and he regained consciousness after an hour and a half of missing time. Under hypnosis, he recalled being taken into a round room with three aliens, each resembling different-coloured geometric monoliths. The smallest of the ultraterrestrials approached him and 'analysed' him by touching his hand. Proxy - Created as a result of psychological manipulation from the tulpa known as 'Slenderman', these violent beings were once victims of the eldritch creature that were brainwashed into doing its bidding. They are unable to think for themselves, and often adopt a completely new personality while under the control of the Slenderman. Their name comes from their behavior of acting as operatives for the being in human society. Pskegdemus - Wailing and crying as if in distress, these North American undead are similar to banshees, and are found in deep swamps and bogs. They use their screaming cries to lure children and lost travelers into their habitat, where they will either be killed or eaten. However, there is some speculation that they are the ghosts of childless mothers crying out from genuine loneliness. Psoglav - Ghoulish flesh-eaters, these one eyed monsters are known from the folklore of the Serbian people, and are found in deep caves in desert areas. They seem to have an obsession with collecting gemstones and precious minerals, which can be used to lure them out of their dwellings. When there is a shortage of human victims, they are known to dig corpses out of graves at night. Psônen - Similar to phoenixes in appearance and behavior, these North American birds are known to be able to create extremely cold temperatures in their vicinity using powerful magic. Their name means 'snow bringer' because of this ability, and their bodies are said to completely freeze over when they die. They will then be reborn from the melt water that this ice gives off. Psychai - Often confused with faeries or angels, these butterfly-winged nymphs are known from Ancient Greek folklore, and often accompany the beautiful female deity known as Psyche. They produce feelings of romantic love and physical pleasure in those around them due to their mere presence. Because of this, they are very rarely harmed or reported to any hunters. Psychopomp - Charged with escorting deceased souls to the Afterlife, these shadowy creatures were first mentioned in the ancient Greek mythology, in the forms of beings such as Charon. Their job is not to judge or harm the soul, but simply to escort it between the different planes of existence. Some of these beings are classed as angels, whereas some of them are deities. Ptereleon - First used as a symbol of hope and peace by the ancient Romans and then adapted into European heraldic art, these majestic hybrid felines are thought to be related to griffins. They do not usually hunt humans out of some kind of respect, though have been known to carry off livestock and large animals, much to the dismay of farmers. Pterippus - To be found in the mountains of Greece and Italy, these rare and magical horses possess powerful feathered wings like those of giant birds. They are wild and untamed, though can be made to respect a worthy human enough to carry them into battle. They are almost always perfect white in color, though some black specimens have been recorded. Pterocentaur - Previously described in ancient Greek literature, this race of winged centaurs has the lower body of a pterippus, and the torso of a human. Little is known about their biology or behavior due to their extreme rarity in the modern day, and most of what we do know is gathered from historical sources. They seem to have been calmer creatures than the lusty terrestrial centaurs, and had feathered wings like those of eagles. Pterolykos - Spoken of in Russian, German and Hungarian folklore, these Slavic creatures are found in mountain ranges and deep forests, and resemble large wolves with avian wings. Despite their beautiful appearance, most of them are vicious predators, though some of them have been known to use shapeshifting abilities to help lost humans. Ptitsy-Siriny - Winged humanoids mentioned in Russian mythology, these fiery hybrids most closely resemble harpies or sirins, and are sometimes thought to be related to firebirds because of their glowing plumage. In some of the oldest sources that mention their existence, they are said to be somehow related to primitive fertility deities known as bereginy. Puaka - Omnivorous descendants of the entelodonts, these creatures are spoken of in Māori culture. They have large tongues with bladed tips, and will attack any humans that they see moving, though will cease to attack if their potential victim stands still. The beasts can be escaped from by crossing a stream, for the creatures will attempt to dry their fur with their tongues and accidentally kill themselves. Pua-Tu-Tahi - Colossal beasts fashioned entirely out of coral and seaweed, these Polynesian creatures are thought to be demonic in origin, or possibly constructs created by aquatic faeries. The coral of which they are made is incredibly sharp, meaning that the hulking monsters can easily shred victims and attackers with very little effort. Puck - Hairy and mischievous faery beings, these creatures were mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare, and are said to enjoy playing pranks and practical jokes on nearby humans. They are known to help with housework and chores if they are rewarded with food and milk, though can undo these favors at a moment's notice if neglected or insulted. Pucks are said to be inherently lonely creatures, and to all share the goal of acquiring friends. Puckrel - Serving witches and other dark magic users in a similar capacity to familiars, these small British demons aid the malevolent people in spreading their evil influence through a community. However, their service comes at a cost, and the witches must regularly feed the beings with blood from their veins. Pugot Mamu - Foul Filipino bogeymen, these monstrous creatures appear as large humanoids with no head, and teeth in the stump where the neck should be. They have the ability to shapeshift, and feed mostly on snakes and insects, but are also often known to hide in dark areas in abandoned buildings, suddenly snatching passersby from the darkness. Pugwis - With a face resembling that of a fish with pronounced incisor teeth, these bizarre aquatic creatures have earned a spot in the folklore of their Canadian habitat. They are referred to as aquatic spirits, and are often depicted in folkloric wood carvings. There are some images with the beings having long spikes on the sides of their heads, which may be a sign of sexual dimorphism. Pukau - Obscure ungulates, these pig-like beasts are said to resemble a hybrid of a swine and a deer, with slender legs but rounded bodies and curved tusks. They are often seen hopping around the mountains of Malaysia, and they are well known to the locals. However, there seems to have recently been a decrease in sightings. Pukehina Predator - Discovered after washing ashore in New Zealand in 2014, this monstrous globster was described as a serpentine animal with large jaws, and was speculated to represent a recently-deceased specimen of Basilosaurus or another sort of prehistoric whale or aquatic reptile. The creature was described as being 30ft long with giant teeth and rudimentary flippers on its body, and the carcass was found on Bay of Plenty by a group of curious beachgoers. Some have claimed it was an orca. Pūķis - Used to help hoard wealth by magic users, these small faeries take on the forms of dragons with red skin, but will turn blue as they steal more valuable items for their masters. They are mentioned in Latvian folklore, and are said to become spiteful if they are not paid properly for their work. These feelings can often result in them burning their masters' houses down. Pukwudgie - Once friendly towards humans, these Native American faeries have since seemingly turned against them, and now enjoy playing a large number of cruel tricks. They can disappear and teleport at will, use poison arrows, and produce and control fire. Their bodies are covered in thick grey skin and porcupine-like quills, and are roughly 2-3 foot tall. Pumpkin Man - Seemingly hailing from another dimension, this ultraterrestrial being is said to be found in the forests of North America's Brown Mountain, which is also associated with aliens and UFOs. Its appearance is often proceeded by Men in Black, warning witnesses to stay quiet, and mysterious jeeps that seem to drive out from underground tunnels in the mountain. Although it was originally thought to not be hostile, there is now a story about it forcing a man to commit murder. Punga - Patrolling the skies and seas of New Zealand, these strange and ugly dragons are worshipped as water deities by the local Māori culture, in which they are held to be the creators of all sea creatures. They resemble large reptilian manta rays, and are often seen leaping in and out of the water just above the surface. Purushamriga - Known to have apotropaic properties when they are depicted in sculptural artwork, these South Indian sphinx-like creatures are often represented in architecture around the entrances to temples or places of religious devotion, for the purpose of cleansing those who walk through them of their sins. They are also often seen acting as the Vahanas (mounts) of a Hindu deity known as Lord Venkateswara during annual festivals or parades such as Srivari Brahmotsavam. Putto - Often confused with cherubim because of Renaissance art, these small faeries often accompany powerful deities such as Aphrodite, and represent romantic and physical love. They appear as small children or infants, with the wings of birds and often wielding bows and arrows. Sculptures of the angelic beings were often depicted on ancient Italian coffins containing children, and they are thought to be derived from various protective spirits that are known from Roman myth. Pyewacket - Faintly resembling ghoulish cats, these spindly imps were claimed to be among the familiars attached to the many witches that were captured during the witch-trials of medieval England. They were frequently seen alongside other bizarre demonic animals, such as Vinegar Tom and Jarmara. When the witches to which they are bound are deprived of sleep or tortured, they will be forced to become visible and manifest in front of their captors. Pygmeentjes - Extremely skilled magic users, these shapeshifting Dutch faeries resemble hideous diminutive humanoids with hunched backs, and are known to be capable of both good and evil. They have the ability to assume the forms of blowflies, using which they can fly around their intended victims and bring bad luck. The most famous member of this species is a character known as Klein Duimpje in Grimm's fairytales, who is thought to be a regional variation of the Tom Thumb trope. Pygmy - Small but strong, these dwarfish humanoids are found on various island regions off the coasts of Africa and Greece, and seem to have a natural adversity with birds or cranes. They are mischievous and enjoy to tie humans down to the ground whilst they sleep, leading some to believe that they may be related to faeries. The first known record of the creatures was in Greek mythology. Pyragon - Flying and playing directly above fires or sources of sufficient heat, these playful salamander-like elementals are known from the works of Italian philosophers and polymaths. They are virtually harmless when they are in their natural environment, and will swiftly die and disappear if they venture outwards into the cold air. Pyrallis - Living inside the furnaces in copper-smelting factories in Cyprus, these four-legged insects can only be seen within the fires themselves, and will die instantly if they are taken out of them. Pliny believed that the creatures were born from the flames, which would make them elementals similar in origin to the salamanders of Europe. Pyrausta - Resembling a hybrid of a small dragon and a moth or mantis, these insect-like reptiles were known from the culture of Cyprus and Greece, and were said to live in and around fire. They die if they are taken away from their heat source, and are capable of spitting a sticky venomous substance from their mouths as a defense mechanism. Qalupalik - Evil merfolk, these monsters are known from Inuit folklore, in which they are described as stealing away children who disobey their parents or wander too close to the edges of ice sheets. They have long hair and dark green skin, as well as long fingernails and pouches in the backs of their clothing, which they use to carry their victims. Qareen - Acting as spiritual doubles for each individual human, these otherworldly equivalents are thought to either be Djinn or nondescript Middle Eastern spirits, and are said to incite or tempt humans using evil suggestions, but can also be lead to benevolence by the good deeds of the humans to which they are attached. There is a story about how the Qareen assigned to Muhammad converted to Islam due to his pious nature. Disagreements between the person and the Qareen can cause possession. Qarînah - Assaulting sleeping humans through their dreams by assuming the forms of beautiful women and forcing them to have sexual intercourse, these demonic Middle-Eastern relatives of Succubi are mentioned in Arabian mythology, in which they are sometimes said to possess certain people and prevent them from marrying under the threat of harm. They are normally invisible, but people with psychic abilities are capable of perceiving them in animalistic forms resembling dogs or cats. Qaxdascidi - Mysterious aquatic monsters spoken of in the North American Tanaina folklore of Alaska, these gigantic malicious entities inhabit the deepest depths of the icy waters surrounding Alaska, and although they are rarely seen the terrifying roars they emit are often heard. They have sharp teeth with which they can puncture the flesh of their prey before swallowing them whole. Like most other nebulous sea monsters, they are often said to be reptilian creatures akin to plesiosaurs. Qebehsenuef - Representing the intestines and death by poisoning in the ancient Egyptian process of mummification, these falcon-like shapeshifters are thought to be the descendants of Horus. They are associated with divination, and have the ability to poison potential aggressors using their ferocious claws. Qilaluga-Nappa - Thought to be similar to the ningen, these colossal merfolk are found in the freezing waters around Canada and Greenland, and have the lower halves of enormous white whales. Their forequarters are humanoid and featureless. They are sometimes said to have limited shapeshifting abilities, but this is unconfirmed. Qilin - Also known as 'Kirin', these chimerical hoofed creatures are found in China and other East Asian territories, in which they are said to herald the arrival of sages or illustrious rulers, and are described as resembling antlered deer with scales and dragon-like heads with flowing manes. They are considered to be divine and peaceful creatures, capable of moving across grass without disturbing a single blade, either due to their intricate hooves or their ability to move upon clouds. Qīnglóng - Godlike dragons, these Asian creatures are sometimes referred to as 'blue-green dragons', and are supposedly protective beings of localities such as mountains or cities. They are known under many different names across various different Eastern cultures, though all of them agree that the creatures are benevolent guardians of specific locations. Qiongqi - Predatory creatures, these Chinese relatives of the manticore feed on shamans and demons, and are often summoned by dark magic users to kill and consume their enemies. However, the spell needed to control one of these monstrous winged tigers is very unreliable, and the sorcerer’s often end up killed and eaten themselves. Qiqirn - Resembling hairless dogs, these relatives of the American chupacabra are feared greatly by the Native American Inuit people because of their powerful venom. They are shy and skittish creatures, though are generally avoided by humans because of the potent toxin that they emit, which can cause those infected to suffer violent fits. Qisemn - Usually passive towards humans, these reptilian shapeshifters are sometimes mistaken for vampires due to their pronounced fangs. However, the Chinese creatures are actually more in line with snakes, as can be seen from their forked tongues and glowing yellow eyes. If they are directly attacked, large groups of the beings will retaliate at once. Qiulong - Described in all kinds of conflicting manners throughout ancient Chinese literature, these green-skinned dragons are either said to be creatures with large, curling horns or dragons notably lacking horns, likely juvenile individuals of other known species. They are said to live in ponds but also to vanish from these locations if they are emptied of fish and gharials. Folklore attests to a period in which their presence along with another species of dragon brought peace to nature. Qlippoth - Some of the most evil forces in the known universe, these husk-like entities are known from Jewish Kabbalah, in which they are considered to be the polar opposites of the Sefirot (the ten manifestations of Ein Sof or the Judaeo-Christian God). The species as a whole act as shells around the Sefirot, both concealing divinity and preventing its energy from dissipating. This is a necessary evil, but there are three 'impure' individuals of the species which are associated with idolatry. Queen Rat - Stalking the subterranean sewers of Britain, these bizarre shapeshifters were known from the campfire stories of Victorian toshers, and were said to seduce the innocent men as they searched the sewers for valuable items. In their true forms, they resemble humanoid rats, though would change their shapes into beautiful human women to leave their victims with infected bites. Quell - Incorporeal undead creatures resembling ghostly humanoids, these semi-transparent entities have glowing green eyes and flesh that hangs about their forms like long robes, and are driven solely by their hatred of all things divine and people devoted to gods, represented by the evil symbols floating around their heads. They despise living things and the light that nurtures them, and are often sought out by dark magic users because of their power to break religious connections to deities. Questing Beast - These venomous monsters appear as hybrids of serpents and leopards, and are said to have patrolled the forests of Britain in Arthurian legend. They apparently originated from demonic intervention in a local family secret, and was created from the sounds of the howling dogs that tore the family apart. This is why the creatures' calls sound exactly like a pack of hunting dogs barking and howling to each other. Quetzalcoatl - Despite often being likened to dragons or other monstrous reptiles, this powerful Middle American deity was one of the most peaceful of the Aztec gods, and was said to represent wind and learning, being depicted along with images of storms and dust devils on ceremonial garments. Unlike other gods, it does not seem to demand human sacrifices. According to a local legend, it was once made drunk and ended up cavorting with its sister, after which it left the planet in shame. Quibungo - Half man and half beast, these South American hairy humanoids are often likened to the European boogeyman, and have a long mouth running down the length of their backs. Despite their extreme physical strength, they are cowardly creatures, and prefer to only consume young children or small animals using their dorsal mouth. It is said that they can be killed using any mundane weapon. Qupqugiaq - Massive creatures, these Inuit beasts resemble polar bears with ten legs and impenetrable hide. They can summon supernatural images of any creature that they have previously eaten, which allows them to lure their prior victims' loved ones to their deaths as well. In some mythological stories, they are rightly regarded as tricksters, though in some stories they are said to bring good luck. Qvasimodo - Ambling through the caves and deep forests of Sweden, these rotund and heavy trolls are often represented in witness sketches as simple hairy spheres with heads and legs. They are worryingly fast despite their comical shape, and are known to feed on human flesh like other trolls. However, some of their behavior seems to be more curious about humans than murderous. Q'yth-az - One of the many Great Old Ones mentioned in the supernaturally-fuelled writings of HP Lovecraft, this bizarre and terrifying entity is usually confined to the form of an enormous crystalline tower on a faraway planet known as Mthura, and is sentient despite its inability to move. Instead, it relies on the mobility of others to carry out its wishes, infecting other beings using sharp crystals strewn all about the Mthura's surface which transmute other organisms into crystal creatures. Rå - Acting as protectors of specific aspects of the world and nature around them, these elemental faeries are known from the folklore of Sweden and surrounding areas. They vary greatly in their appearance and characteristics depending on the element over which they watch. All objects and people were said to have one of these beings watching over them. Rabisu - Said to have originally been rebellious angels that were cast out from Heaven after the Devil staged a revolt, these vampiric Middle Eastern demons are known from Babylonian tradition, in which they are regarded as lurking in the doorways and dark areas of secluded homes. They are thought to be related to the crouchers, and are known to suddenly possess people without them even realizing it and forcing them to commit unforgivable sins. Rabunhod - Although often said to be human outlaws or vigilantes, these beings are actually faery creatures that have been recorded in English and European folklore since the medieval period. They wield bows and arrows as well as other ranged weapons, and use these to steal food and money from rich travelers, which they then anonymously pass on to those less fortunate in their vicinity. Rach'aders - Akin to the Nephilim of other religions, these enormous Hindu giants are thought to be related to djinn, and are known to have subjected the entire planet to their ruthless rule in ancient times. Because of this, and their savage behavior, they were decimated by the deities known as Shiva and Vishnu, and very few individuals of the species still exist in secluded areas. Radiant Boy - Found in Germany and Northern England, these European ghosts are formed from the souls of young children murdered by their parents (usually their mothers) and are thought to be omens of extreme bad luck, eventually bringing death to all those that see them. Many medieval children were murdered due to being born out of wedlock. They get their name from their brightly-glowing bodies, and are known to appear very suddenly and disappear just as quickly, terrifying witnesses. Ragana - Directly allied with Satan and his demons, these dark magic users were commonplace in Latvia throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, prompting mass hysteria and witch-hunts due to their frightening ability to shapeshift into monstrous creatures and control evil spirits in their vicinity. They are known to steal milk from cattle and livestock, controlling toads and snakes and forcing the reptiles to drain milk from udders and then regurgitate it on command in the witches' presence. Rahara - Resembling the classic ideal of a sea serpent, these monstrous carnivorous plants are said to grow in shallow lakes and swamps across Venezuela. They are capable of controlling the minds of both humans and animals in their general vicinity, to lure other potential victims close to their habitats. It is said that anyone who says the creatures' name will be killed, and so will anyone who drinks from their waterholes. Rahman - Inhabiting an alternate realm parallel to our own, these Ukrainian faeries are either described as manipulative and malicious, or having great respect for the Judaeo-Christian God. From this information, it has been speculated that there are two distinct factions of the species, one of which being evil and the other being almost monk-like in their religious devotion. Raijū - Composed entirely of lightning and electrical energy which takes the vague shape of a white or blue wolf, these shapeshifting creatures are known from Japanese folklore in which they are associated with thunderstorms, and are said to fly about as balls of electricity. They are normally fairly placid and neutral towards human contact, but they become agitated during storms, jumping about between trees and houses, sometimes accidentally electrifying these surfaces with their scratches. Raijū - Originally coming from Japan, these creatures resemble wolfmen with the ability to control and absorb lightning and magnetic energy. The cries that they make sound akin to thunder, and those scratched or bitten by them will be instantly electrocuted beyond recognition. Railalomena - Resembling stout crocodiles, these mighty Madagascan reptiles behave in a similar manner to hippopotamuses, and their name is sometimes translated to mean 'hippo king'. Unlike other crocodiles, they are herbivorous and do not attack humans that don't encroach on their territory. A relation to other swamp-dwelling reptiles such as the dragon-like Mokèlé-Mbèmbé has been suggested. Rainbow Crow - Featured heavily in the creation mythologies of Canada and North America, these rare corvids were represented as bringers of ice and cold. This myth was based on the fact that the animals are known to burrow themselves under ground in forest fires in order to survive the disaster. They can sometimes be seen hunting among burning bushes, which has further contributed to their legendary status. Rake - Resembling a mix of a human and a hairless dog, this demon will stalk random victims before brutally killing them for an unknown purpose. It didn't exist before it was created on an internet forum in 2005, which suggests that it may be a form of Tulpa. This realization makes the clawed fiend incredibly hard to kill. Rakkhasimha - In ancient times, children born in the vicinity of certain Asian temples would be carried off and consumed by savage demons, and so a group of monks decided to create these sphinx-like creatures that were twice the size and ferocity of the demons. Because of their sheer might and power, sculptures depicting the likenesses of these beasts are now often constructed around temples and other buildings of worship, acting as protective symbols. Their name means 'demon lion'. Rakshasa - Fearsome and man-eating, these monstrous humanoids are spoken of in various Hindu and Buddhist traditional stories, and are capable of shapeshifting and casting powerful illusion spells. They feed on the blood and flesh of human victims, and often gleefully join the fray during violent battles. However, some of the creatures have been known to curb their anthropophagous tendencies and become heroes. Raktabīja - Known in Hindu traditions, these fearsome Asian demons are almost godlike in their power, and are capable of producing weaker duplicates of themselves by infecting surrounding humans with their blood. A great contagion of these monsters was stopped in ancient times by the combined work of the deities Shiva and Kali, and the first individual of the species was destroyed. Ramanga - Providing disgusting services for the officials in some traditional Madagascan tribes, these living vampires are expected to consume the blood and fingernails of chiefs and their families. This ghoulish duty is usually carried out in ritualistic ceremonies, and when no Ramanga are present, blood and fingernails will be stored to wait for their return. Rangda - Ruling over leyaks in its immediate vicinity, this terrifying Balinese demonic entity is depicted in traditional dancing rituals across Indonesian islands, and is regarded as the personification of evil and disaster. It often does battle with the benevolent Barong, and is thought to have originally been an enormously powerful witch who was cursed by an evil deity. Some researchers have also suggested that it may be the ghost of Mahendradatta, an evil queen who was devoted to the deity. Rashnu - Embodying truth and honesty in the cosmology of the Zoroastrian religion, these godly entities serve the judge the souls of humans who die based on their deeds in life. They act as assistants and companions to the omnipotent beings known as Amesha Spenta, serving as angels in this function, and are known to have a passionate hatred of judges and legal professionals who deliver false convictions. Rat King - Truly nightmarish entities, these creatures are formed when multiple individual rats are bound together by their tails, and eventually start to share consciousness because of magical influence. The first known report of one of these entities came from 1564, though several modern sightings have been confirmed. They are believed to bring negative fortune to wherever they go, and even to spread diseases such as the Medieval plague. Ratatoskr - First mentioned in Norse mythology, these sly, squirrel-like faeries are thought to deliver messages up and down the legendary World Tree. They are capable of transmitting their thoughts telepathically despite not being able to speak. There are rumors that they may feed on creating conflict between sources, though this is unconfirmed, though it is wise to be wary that one's messages may be distorted. Ratman of Southend - Found lurking in the subways and underpasses of its namesake English locale, this hideous being resembles an undead humanoid rodent, is thought to have been born from the wrathful ghost of a homeless man who was beaten to near-death by a group of criminals and then left to perish of hypothermia. As he succumbed to the cold, a hungry pack of rats devoured his body, and now he haunts the tunnels in the form of a grotesque rat-like monster, making scratching noises at night. Raudkembingur - Supernatural descendants of pliosaurs, these Icelandic monsters seem to deliberately attempt to sink passing ships by using their teeth and bulky bodies. There are stories in local folklore about a young man being transformed into the first individual of this species by a wrathful faery. Because of their malicious nature and tenacious hunting strategy, the creatures tend to die of exhaustion if one of their potential prey items manages to escape. Raven - Despite sharing its name with its lookalike bird, this powerful trickster deity is known to be a master manipulator and creator spirit. It was first mentioned in the culture of the Haida people from Canada and North America, who regarded it as a legendary hero, and said that it had created humanity. Like many other trickster gods, the being is still known to cause trouble to this day due to its lusty and stubborn nature. Raven Mocker - These beings hail from Cherokee folklore, and are said to stalk and torment the old and sick before stealing their heart from their chest without leaving a single mark on the victim's chest. Their raven-like cry will curse anyone who hears it, but they can be warded off by blessings by a Cherokee 'medicine man'. There are rumors that they originate from a dark magic user utilizing a shapeshifting ability, though these are unconfirmed. Rawhead - Often appearing in conjunction with bloody bones, this creature normally lives in the cellars of old houses, and is drawn to children who have lied or said 'bad words'. It is thought to be related to trolls, a theory which is supported by its reluctance to be exposed to light. It often kidnaps children, keeping them hostage in its cellars, though can be killed using electricity. Rawuzel - Thought to be an evolutionary relative of the Austrian krampus, these primitive creatures appear akin to a large bear with the head of a man with long ram's horns. They are notably less powerful in their use of magic than their cousins, but are physically much stronger and frighteningly tenacious when pursuing prey items. Their preferred weapons are large whips made from a collection of sticks and branches. Reaper - These powerful beings are required for any death to take place in the universe, and will wait for someone to reach the end of their time and then escort their souls to either Heaven or Hell. They can take many forms, though will most often appear as a ghostly humanoid in either a suit or a hooded cloak. They cannot force souls to go with them, and are completely neutral beings with no care about making deals or anything akin to negotiation. Rebob - Guarding the entrances to large secret military compounds in North America, these strange creatures resemble small primates with cybernetic body parts and wings with which they can fly short distances. For decades there have been reports of the creatures attacking passersby and potential trespassers on the property. There is speculation that they represent a failed experiment. Red Devil-Bat of Chester - Said to have menaced a family when it flew in through their Pennsylvania house's window in 1928, this strange creature resembled a 3ft broad humanoid with horns, bat wings and scarlet flesh. It was seen at a time when that same area of North America was plagued with reports of the Jersey Devil, and its similar appearance suggests a relation to the aforementioned monster. Some of the neighbours of the victims suggested that the previous tenant of the house was a witch. Red Eyed Vigilante - Active in 2012 in the English town of Runcorn, this unique example of a benevolent phantom attacker took the form of a humanoid with glowing red eyes and a military-style black balaclava or hood, and was known to have prevented crimes on at least two occasions. The first report details how the Spring-Heeled-Jack-like superhero fought off a group of men harassing a woman, and the second account describes the same figure disarming a group of potential assailants. Red Rager - Taking wicked pleasure in releasing uncontrolled fury or violent passions in their victims, these parasitic faeries are usually small and insignificant, but can grow to giant stature and take on a vibrant red colouration when controlling a human host. Their bites will inflict an unstoppable and destructive rage on human victims, which will grow more powerful each time the person is affected by one of the creatures. They were first mentioned in the writings of faery-researcher Brian Froud. Redcap - Hiding in ruined castles in the highlands of Britain and Scotland, these murderous faeries carry massive knives and pikes, and will dye their hats red in the blood of their victims. They often live together in unruly gangs, and will die if the blood on their caps dries out. Although they usually resemble full-height humans, their true form is diminutive with long claws and fangs. Redjal El Marja - Hideous humanoids covered in seaweed and slime, these toxic djinn are spoken of in the folklore of Morocco, and usually live in swamps and marshes, but have been known to move into the water supplies of neighboring villages if these bogs are drained or cleaned. Their presence causes extreme water contamination and the spread of disease, and so the beings must be appeased with ceremonial candles to ensure that they do not taint the fountains and canals. Re'em - Often confused with the similar behemoth, these massive Middle Eastern unicorns are mentioned in the Hebrew Bible used by the Jewish faith, and are said to larger than mountains. The bovine beasts were supposedly so large that they had to be tied to the outside of Noah's legendary ark, and their horns were supposedly mistaken for mountains by some unwary travelers. Regulus - Solitary creatures, these black serpents have a fleshy wattle on their foreheads that is often mistaken for a crown, and results in them being confused with basilisks. Instead of killing using petrification like their kin, these creatures poison those in their vicinity with a demonic aura of dark energy. This is likely the reason that they are solitary creatures, and hate the company of members of their own kind. Remacera - Appearing as enormous green caterpillars with the faces of human women, these strange fey creatures consider it their cultural duty to make certain that other beings do not stagnate or stay in one state of existence for too long, and so they will seek out those who are old or settled and attack them remorselessly, killing them due to a belief in a childbirth-like process of reincarnation. In combat, they can unhinge their jaws, and can also lay parasitic eggs inside victims. Remnant - Often confused with revenants because of their similar names, these undead creatures take on the forms of incorporeal spirits that can possess human bodies to gain physical strength. In their true forms, they appear as tiny black shadows with white slits for eyes, and use small hands to prize open the jaws of victims in order to possess them. Once a remnant stays inside a body for four days, it will become permanently stuck in that form. Rephaim - Blessing and healing their descendants according to ancient Hebrew or Judaeo-Christian traditions, these giant ghosts are thought to represent the souls of long-deceased kings or noble ancestors. They are often invoked in traditional religious ceremonies for folk-medicine purposes, but have been known to become wrathful if abused or wrongfully manipulated. Rephaite - Spoken of in Biblical literature, this mighty race of giants was supposedly to be found in the Middle East during the Iron Age. They were described as being 13.5ft tall and pugnacious, but not as being angel/human hybrids, unlike the nephilim. Although their skeletons are being found today, suggesting that the species is extinct, there are some rumors of the US army encountering an individual of the species in Afghanistan. Reptilian - These frightening, shape-shifting aliens were first reported in 1929, and have been using their abilities to take control of governments and infrastructure by replacing high level officials ever since. They eat human flesh and drink our blood, and have formed a cult-like society that operates in the shadows. Researchers have suggested that they could be ultraterrestrials, or perhaps sapient dinosaurs. Reremouse - Small winged mammals, these flying rodents are thought to be distantly related to primitive prehistoric bats, and were commonly depicted in medieval European art. They have limbs completely covered in thick black membranes, and fingers that have sometimes been known to split into growths resembling extra hands or feet. Resurrection Mary - Scorching metal with their touch, these powerful phantom hitchhikers are found in a specific area of North America, around a particular cemetery in which it is thought that the first of their species died. They will either call out to be picked up by a car and disappear shortly after, or run directly into their paths and cause crashes. Reuzen - Thought to be extinct in modern times, these giant humanoids are known from Dutch folklore, in which they are said to be responsible for the excavation of rivers such as the Waal and the Rhine, and are alleged to have produced mountains by shaking the sand out of their enormous shoes or aprons. Easily outwitted, they were generally not considered to be very intelligent, and were known to wear rags or furs as rudimentary forms of clothing. They are sometimes said to be demons or faeries. Revelations Beast - Capable of healing itself after any potential wounds, this monstrous creature is often known to work in unison with the False Prophet of Babylon. It has seven leopard-like heads, each with horns and a 'blasphemy' on their forehead, and great intelligence and power. According to the Bible, it feeds on the worship and awe it generates in those who see it, and is able to control these followers into committing hideous acts. Revenant - First spoken of in Western European folktales, these undead creatures return to life because of an unresolved grudge or grievance. They are visible to the untrained eye, and resemble emaciated corpses. They drink blood for unknown reasons, and will spread a lethal sickness among the human population in their vicinity. Revolving Beast - Related to the chimera and the manticore, this creature can be found on islands off the coast of Ireland and Britain. It is said to be an incredibly fast-moving predator, and to be able to twist its bones and muscles into entirely new species of animals as it moves. This process is incredibly noisy, making scraping and screeching sounds, which have been known to frighten potential hunters into retreating. Reynard - This shapeshifting trickster being is found in Northern Europe, and resembles a humanoid fox-like animal in its true form. It enjoys using reality-manipulating abilities to create other anthropomorphic animals to participate in its bizarre game, which often consist of romantic stories and fairytale events. Rhinelapus - Scuttling around the roadsides of North America like hulking spiders, these tripodal aberrations have three enormous legs ending in powerful claws, as well as enormous horns on the junction between these three limbs, which can be used as devastating weapons. Their reptilian heads hang low to the ground, where they feed on leaves, and they appear to have a large sphincter on the other end of their bodies, usually pointing skyward. They are sometimes said to fight Hodags. Rhinoceros Dolphin - Sighted on the coast of Australia, these cetaceans are described as having a black and white colouration with two prominent dorsal fins on their backs. Their existence is currently unconfirmed by scientists. Ri - With the faces and torsos of hideous primates or sea lions, these aquatic apes are to be found swimming along the shores of Papua New Guinea, and are apparently often caught and eaten by local fishermen. They have tails with fins resembling those of dolphins, and strong arms with digits that can manipulate their environment. Their species gained recognition among hunters after a large number of sightings in the 1980s. Ribbotaim - Either appearing as cloud-like formations or flaming chariots pulled by horses, these unique angels are mentioned in the Hebrew book of Enoch, and are usually conflated with the Cherubim in Judaeo-Christian literature. According to the Biblical story of the prophet Elijah, it was the 'chariots of God' that were responsible for the sudden abduction of Elijah, transporting him to Heaven through use of a whirlwind of fire. They will also play an important role in the Second Coming. Rijeka Reaper - Although considered a hoax by some hunters, these humanoid creatures actually exist in small subterranean populations beneath Croatia. They have long claws on their forelimbs, and will move by dragging their legless bodies along using these limbs. When threatened, they will make loud screaming sounds. Ringdocus - As the smallest and most agile of the Shunka Warakin family, these lithe creatures resemble wolves with the arched backs of hyenas. They hunt in small packs, and are known to snatch livestock from various farms in the North American state of Montana. Famously, a ringdocus was shot in 1886 whilst doing just this, and has since become a taxidermies tourist attraction. Rippler - Slow moving predators in the stratosphere, these enormous dark creatures are usually mistaken for strange black clouds, but will rapidly either disappear or assume a fibrous form akin to that of rods or skyfish if they are directly observed. The first official report of one of the beings, and a clear photograph depicting one of their likenesses, was captured in New Zealand by a photographer named Michael White. Rishi - Possessing a divine form of knowledge, these powerful magic users are thought to be related to saints, and are mentioned heavily in the early writings of the Hindu faith. They are capable of perceiving the thoughts and emotions of humans and supernatural entities around them, and are often known to compose these visions into poems and songs. Because of their enhanced perception of the world around them, they are regarded as some of the most respected seers in the Hindu worldview. Rit Zien - Deployed as the medics of Heaven, these angels were tasked with painlessly putting down angels and warriors that were beyond healing. They were attracted to pain, suffering and the will to die, and would heal those that were capable of recovering, but kill those that were emotionally despondent. This meant that they were attracted to anxiety and depression on Earth, leading to the deaths of innocent victims. River Mumma - Guarding the sources of rivers across Jamaica, this feminine water spirit takes a merfolk-like form, and can often be seen sitting in the water combing its hair with a golden comb, which it sometimes leaves on riverside rocks to entice victims who will then be pulled into the water. During the times of slavery, sacrifices would be made to the entity to grant passage to cross rivers or to end droughts, and the fish in the rivers held to be occupied by the being would not be eaten. River Troll - Covering themselves in reeds and muck to protect themselves from turning to stone in daylight, these European trolls live in shallow bodies of water like lakes or ponds. As soon as they move into a new area, they will immediately begin excavating the bed of the river to keep it deep enough to conceal them. They have been known to devour entire flocks of livestock at a time. Riverside It - A man named Charles Wetzel was driving along the banks of a river in the North American state of California in 1958 when his radio suddenly ceased functioning and this bizarre humanoid suddenly leapt out of the bushes in front of his car, clawing at his windshield before being run over. He described it as a tall reptilian creature with a round head, glowing eyes and a beak-like mouth, and said that it appeared to lack knees. Despite being run over, its body was never found. Rjúfendr - Sometimes regarded as nothing more than genetic variants of the Eldjötnar, these shadowy creatures dwell in the Norse realm of Muspelheim, and are named after the literal translation for 'Destroyers of Doomsday'. Some modern depictions of the creatures show them as metallic humanoids due to the popularity of certain comic books and movies. They are said to ride across the Bifrost and tear it to shreds during Ragnarok. Road Troll - First recorded in 1981 by a trucker named Gary Durbin as he was driving down an isolated road in North America's Illinois, this bizarre phantom usually manifests as a hairy humanoid-like entity clad in ragged clothing, with a wooden peg instead of its right leg. The being followed Durbin across several states, being seen five times in total, before going on to be witnessed by numerous others. It appears to have been acting as some kind of an omen or warning of future misfortune. Robin Goodfellow - Sometimes thought to be a regional British variation of the satyr and the faun, these phantasmal faeries are said to have the ability to control lesser beings, such as hobgoblins, in their vicinity. They act as subordinates and proxies for the faery king known as Oberon, and have been spoken of in literature since 1531. Roblon - Thought to have originally been an oak tree situated in a deep woodland area in the Spanish territory of Cantabria, this strange elemental creature was formed when a young girl sought shelter in a hole in its tree, and her pure nature animated the tree and enabled it to steal her soul. Using this new energy, it grew bigger and more humanlike, draining the life from other foliage around it. Eventually, it uprooted itself and now wanders around the forests causing earthquakes and fog. Rod - These bizarre creatures were first caught on camera in 1994 at Roswell, and seem to be too fast to be perceived by the normal human eye. There is evidence of the beings physically interacting with people and animals, which has led to speculation that they are extra dimensional entities. Rogge-Brommerd - Manifesting in areas of wheat or rye fields where the wind ripples across the crops to produce a vortex-like affect, these Dutch faeries are sometimes depicted as boogeymen by concerned parents to discourage children from playing in rye fields. They are also known to be capable of poisoning the crops produced from their resident fields if they are angered or disrespected. There is debate as to whether they are elementals or some other variety of spirit. Rogo-Tumu-Here - Capable of attacking and kidnapping deities and their descendants, these enormous octopus-like demons are mentioned in the Polynesian mythology of the Tuamotus. Apparently, a god by the name of Faumea rescued her daughter by drawing in the energy from the wind around her and projecting it at the monstrous cephalopod. There is a chance that these creatures are related to Ketos. Rokurokubi - Appearing as regular humans by day, these Japanese vampires will grow incredibly elongated necks by night, and use these bizarre appendages to frighten and spy on humans. They are truly evil in nature, and feed on the blood and flesh of humans that they are able to catch, strangling them to death using the coils of their necks. They are thought to originate from a curse that a wrathful deity places on those who break religious taboos. Rolling-Calf - Usually appearing as ghostly hornless goats with black and white spots and fiery red eyes, these shapeshifting Duppies are formed from the violent souls of particularly cruel individuals such as murderers, butchers or dark magic users, and are known to roam bamboo forests and abandoned houses across Jamaica at night. The best way to escape one is by flogging it with a tarred whip, stabbing a knife into the ground, or using their irrational fear of the moon against them. Rompo - Although small in size, these ghoulish creatures resemble skeletal ferrets or weasels, and feed exclusively on human corpses. They are aggressive in behavior, and make a crooning sound when they eat. Despite mostly being found in African grasslands, there are some stories of the creatures also being present in India. Rồng - Bringing essential rain and moisture to the atmosphere surrounding their home territory in Vietnam, these powerful magical dragons are often seen to keep a stone châu in their mouths, which represents human wisdom and intelligence. They are much rarer nowadays due to the sharp recent changes in Vietnamese culture and thus the decline in worship of the godly reptiles. Ropen - Found in the skies of Indonesia and New Guinea, these large fruit bats are often confused with the similar-looking Duah because of their glowing appearance. They do not feed on human flesh unlike the pterosaurs that they are so often compared to, and instead feed on nectar and fruits from nearby plants. Their bioluminescence comes from a species of fungus with which they have a symbiotic relationship. Rosmarus - Resembling enormous walruses with paws and inverted tusks, these medieval European sea monsters have been known to climb up out of the water using their tusks and feet to grip onto rocks. They feed mostly on shellfish, and are hunted and skinned by small groups of humans who patrol the rocky coastlines. Rougarou - These werewolf-like creatures will be born human, but will gradually develop an extreme hunger that will lead them to eat human flesh, and will transform into a monster after doing this. This transformation is irreversible, with the monster being incredibly powerful in strength and stamina, and must then be killed using fire. Row - Hailing from New Guinea, these rare creatures are relatives of turtles, and have evolved to have incredibly long necks to get at food sources high up in trees. They feed on vegetation, though are unafraid to attack if threatened. They have since been transported into areas such as South America, where they have become responsible for sightings of sauropod dinosaurs. Ruan - Named after the 16th century Cornish saint who became the first of their kind, these incredibly rare shapeshifters are born when a saint or messiah is bitten and transformed by a werewolf. They still have all of their powers in their human form, though are unable to harm wolves or protect people from the nocturnal predators. Rübezahl - Kind and generous to those that they view as good, these strange faery giants are mentioned in the folklore of the Czech Republic and Poland, and usually dwell in thick forests in mountainous regions. They are capable of shapeshifting into any form that they choose, and are sometimes known to kidnap unwary humans or cause rainstorms and thick snow in local villages. The name given to them is viewed as derogatory, and they will try to kill anyone who refers to them in this way. Whoops. Rukh - Massive birds to be found in the mountainous deserts of the Middle East, these horrible creatures are known to be large enough to carry off elephants as prey. They will drop these pachyderms from a great height in order to kill them and shatter their bones, and then swoop down and eat their corpses. The theft of the egg of one of these birds was mentioned in the legend of Sinbad the Sailor. Rumptifusel - Specially adapted to resemble finely-made fur coats when they attach themselves to flat surfaces, these bizarre North American predators are spoken of in lumberjack folklore. Foolish passersby have been known to pick them up and attempt to wear them, mistaking them for coats, only to be eaten by the hungry creatures. Runa Uturunco - Using enchanted puma skins to transform into monstrous felines, these shapeshifting South American magic users hunt those who are foolish enough to walk alone through densely wooded areas. Their tracks can be distinguished from those of normal big cats by the presence of five toes, and the monsters can be killed using regular bullets. Runamula - Originally born from a curse placed on a woman who had affairs with missionaries sent to her home country of Brazil, these demonic monsters are descended from this individual. They have the faces and chests of beautiful women but the bodies of cattle, and will gallop through lonely villages at night and feed on the fear that they create. It is said that they can be cured and turned back into humans by a benevolent magic user. Running Man - Tall and slender creatures, these Scottish hairy humanoids are sometimes thought to be mist elementals or faeries, and are often seen to run alongside fast-moving cars. They move at incredible speeds, and use this bizarre ability to peer in through the windows of speeding vehicles, terrifying and confusing the occupants. Rusalka - Found in Russian waterways, these spirits are formed when young women are either drowned against their will, or commit suicide using water. They lure foolish men to the water, and will entangle them in their long hair and submerge them. However, this process seems beneficial for the environment around them, as the ground will become more fertile and rainfall will become more plentiful. Russian Merman - First caught by fishermen off the coast of Spain in 1739, these massive creatures are close relatives of trolls, and have scaly skin covered in fishlike fins. They have particularly striking multicolored fins on the backs of their bodies, which are capable of expanding and contracting when used as display structures. Because of their conical heads, a relation to bishop fish has been proposed. Ryangombe - Named after a deity who was banished from the African pantheon because of his hideous appearance, these shadowy creatures are now found in the caves and dense jungles of Africa. They resemble the far more common minotaurs, but are capable of teleporting and possessing human hosts. It is thought that their progenitor god represented cattle and farming. Ryūjin - Taking on the form of a monstrous aquatic dragon, this ferocious deity lives in the choppy waters around Japan, and is capable of controlling the fish and animals around it. It controls the tide, and is capable of manipulating and reshaping the biology and physical structure of sea creatures in its vicinity. Saalua - Dwelling in cemeteries and graveyards across the Middle East, these ghoulish creatures are comparable to the succubus, and will seduce any men that they come across and force them into servitude. They are capable of shapeshifting, as well as blending themselves into shadows to become invisible. Saapin - Dwelling on the backs or thighs of beautiful humans, these bizarre Caribbean spirits usually camouflage themselves as tattoos depicting their cobra-like visages, though will come to life during full-moon nights and envenomate those around them, usually the spouses of their hosts. The venom will not directly kill them, but will instead curse them to die in bizarre accidents or commit suicide within a day. In order to remove the creature, a specific ritual must be carried out. Sabawaelnu - Although they behave in a primitive, animal-like manner, these North American merfolk seem to have some power over the climate and weather of the area in which they live. Their songs can be used to predict the weather if one could learn to understand them, and they appear to be willing to befriend humans. However, they are known to become vengeful if wronged or disrespected. Sachamama - These Peruvian relatives of river turtles are often misrepresented in folklore as giant snakes, because of their long necks and tails. They spend most of their lives underwater, where they ambush small fish and other turtles by striking suddenly with their long necks and powerful jaws. They rarely venture onto land, though can sometimes be seen fashioning crude nests in which to lay their eggs. Sacháyoj - Either manifesting as an elderly humanoid man covered in white hair or as a horseman riding atop a black mule on a heavily-bejewelled saddle, this South American elemental is primarily known from Argentina's Santiago del Estero, and is considered to act as a guardian for the forests in which it lives. It carries a bag containing honey or mead, which it will give to travelers that respect it, but is also capable of playing cruel tricks on those who fell trees unnecessarily. Ṣafat - Wielding six impressive wings with the cost of the inability to land, these frightening Middle Eastern birds are known to have once been used by Azrael to bring death to populations of humans. The eggs that they produce will cause rabies in those that consume them, which will then spread throughout a village and provide Azrael with more 'customers'. Sagari - Resembling little more than a grotesque horse's head on the end of a long tentacle, these Japanese aberrations are known to be surprisingly intelligent. They swing down from trees at travelers, and emit a frightful screech that can cause sickness in those who hear it. Penned livestock is perfect prey for the creatures, who will happily attach themselves to a ceiling area and shred the animals below, using their sharpened teeth. Sagoin - Small and irritating to unsuspecting passersby, these weasel-like monkeys are found in the jungles and tree canopies of South America, and are usually described as timid and agile. They are mischievous, and enjoy stealing food and provisions from unprotected groups, though will run away if confronted. Şahmaran - Wise and pale dragon hybrids resembling female Nāgas with the heads of giant serpents at the ends of their tails, these Middle Eastern creatures are often mentioned in local legends in which they offer affection and advice to heroes or travelers. Eating their scales is said to grant omniscient wisdom to people that are viewed as good, but will poison and kill those that are evil. The queen of the species was killed for her scales, and if the rest of them find out there will be a war. Sahuagin - Vicious aquatic humanoids, these creatures are found mostly in the deepest sects of oceans worldwid, where they frequently engage in savage wars with other underwater races. They wield spears and nets as weapons, but are also able to tear flesh using their clawed hands and feet. Despite being primitive beings, they worship a small group of deities, and frequently make living sacrifices to these entities. The first mention of their existence was in modern fantasy literature. Saint - These people begin life as regular humans but are then effectively 'knighted' later by a celestial being such as an angel or a god, through either a near-death experience or a vision of some sort. They have incredible supernatural power, as well as virtual immortality, and can communicate with angels and possibly even the Judaeo-Christian God himself. When viewed through lenses scorched with holy fire, rings of enochian script appear around their bodies, mimicking an angel's halo. Sak - Egyptian relatives of the griffin, these creatures are known from the shrines that were dedicated to them by the ancient Egyptians. They are primarily carnivores, and hunt small animals in deserts and warm cave environments. A structure that resembles a lotus can be seen at the foot of their tails, and it is said that this gives the creature a psychic control over the pheromones of nearby creatures or plants. Sakai - Lurking in and around the forests and rivers of Malaysia, these relatives of the common American sasquatch are known locally as 'stinking ones'. They have white skin and black fur, with long moustache-like structures on individuals of both genders. They have been known to grab and attack humans who enter their territory, though they are herbivorous in diet despite their notably large incisor teeth. Sakarabru - Considered to be the god of medicine, justice and retribution among the Agni people of the African locale of Guinea, this strange deity is described as something of a dualistic entity in some sources, which insist that it will attack and devour people who leave their homes after dark, or protect people from wandering demons depending on its mood. If it receives proper offerings it will heal the sick, but if it is annoyed it can kill them as punishment for their sins. Salamander - Fiery faeries, these European creatures resemble their namesake amphibians, and are capable of producing incredible amounts of flame from their bodies. They are said to have taught humans how to use fire in the many ways that they do today. Because of their affiliation with heat and fire, they are sometimes used to power furnaces and ovens in modern times. Salawa - Associated with the evil deity known as Setekh, these Egyptian hellhounds resemble a jackal with a forked tail and triangular ears. Although they were once assumed to only appear with the deity, a slew of sightings and vicious attacks in the 1960s proved otherwise. In this incident, and again in 1997, a pack of these beasts invaded villages in Southern Egypt, and caused multiple deaths. Salbanelli - Quarter-faery hybrid beings, these North Italian humanoids are produced from the unisons of Salvanelli and Strega witches, and are thought to be naturally-proficient magic users because of their supernatural heritage. Sources detailing their appearance and behaviour are very limited, and so it is not known how distinguishable they are from regular humans. There are certain individuals that belong to this incredibly rare species without even knowing it. Salem Witch - Born due to a 1690s case of mass hysteria in which over 25 people were killed under suspicions of witchcraft, these modern day entities still haunt the Massachusetts town in which they were executed. The wrathful souls of those who were killed have been known to group together to form hideous masses of dark magic, and attempt to take vengeance on innocent humans around them. Salt Witch - According to local North American legend, a fierce native chief once lived on the Nebraska Plain, and his monstrous rages could only be calmed by his beloved wife. Upon her death, he locked himself away and eventually left to gain solitude in the mountains, where he had a vision of a grotesque hag-like figure attacking another woman, who turned out to be his late wife. The chief attacked the hag, but both women vanished into the ground, leaving behind only a large pillar of salt. Saltier - With closely compacted toes that resemble hooves, these hairy creatures are thought to be related to sasquatches, and possibly satyrs as well. They are referred to in the works of William Shakespeare, in which a terrified servant tells a character about a large group of the creatures dancing in a circle. They are very rarely seen nowadays, and seem to be going extinct. Saltwater Hippocampus - Often referred to in Greek and Roman folklore as pulling the chariots of various sea-gods, these creatures resemble hybrids of majestic horses and unearthly fish. They feed on seaweed and other aquatic plants, though are still regarded as being dangerous to those who seek to exploit the sea. In ancient times, they were said to be the adult form of the seahorse. Salvaje - Building primitive huts and using makeshift weapons to patrol the jungles of South America, these savage hairy humanoids have been known to raid human habitations and eat innocent victims. They carry off human women for breeding purposes, but their prints can easily be distinguished from their backwards-turned feet. Salvanelli - Born from the union between one of the Silvani and an Aguane, these half-faery beings are known from the folklore of Northern Italy, and are named after the term for the glimmering effect observed on the surface of water or a mirror. Some sources suggest that they live in forests and are diminutive in stature, but this is disputed due to their rarity. They are often known to marry and have children with Stregas, producing further hybrid beings known as Salbanelli. Samay - Maintaining order and justice in traditional African communities using large wooden sticks and threats of violence, these cloaked faeries are often depicted by dancers wearing masks and costumes during religious festivals. The creatures themselves encourage people to join in on these festivities, seemingly drawing power from their worship and appreciation. Samhain - A massively powerful Celtic entity, this being is widely accepted to be the 'alpha' of the undead. It acts as a hybrid of a ghost and a demon, and so can thus possess people whilst being immune to exorcism rites. Terrifyingly, it is able to summon ghosts, ghouls and other horrific apparitions at will. Sāmm-abraṣ - Distinguishable due to their sickly grey appearance, these diabolical lizards are known to spread leprosy among populations, and will often seek to deliberately poison food sources. They are found mostly in the Middle East, though are thankfully becoming much rarer with the distribution of proper treatment against their fatal poison. Samodiva - Often mistaken for faeries or sylphs, these Slavic creatures are actually formed from the souls of people who were aloof and lusty in life, and are thus cursed to become the beguilers of new generations after death. Their very appearance can drive men mad with lust, and can force women to kill themselves out of jealousy. If directly attacked, the hostile creatures can summon massive bursts of flame to protect themselves. Samūm - Appearing either as a scorching wind or a mass of roaring flames, this terrifying djinn is thought to have originally been created by the Judaeo-Christian God as a companion for Iblis. However, it has since generated offspring of its own, which act as ferocious elementals of heat and aridity. They have the ability to break through the skin of any humans that they encounter, and poison them with dark energy. San Luis Potosí Toadman - First witnessed in its namesake Mexican locale one October afternoon in 1965, this reptilian ultraterrestrial being resembled a tall humanoid with an oval-shaped head with a toad-like mouth and enormous red eyes, as well as flipper-like hands with which it reached out and touched a game hunter by the name of Francisco Estrada Acosta. Acosta ran away from the scene in terror, but as he glanced back he saw the alien creature unveil leathery wings from its back. Sand Whale - One of the few species that can survive on the barren surface of Mars, these enormous alien beings were discovered by the writer Anthony Brian Austin, and are shown on the sand-dunes of the Red Planet in multiple photographs taken by the NASA space probes. They feed on large colonies of extremophile microbes, and are capable of survival without oxygen or liquid. As the name suggests, they spend most of their time burrowing beneath the Martian surface. Sandewan - Leaving gruesome trails of blood wherever they move, these bizarre African beasts are very rarely seen in their Zimbabwe territory, and so their true appearance can only be extrapolated. Local legends dictates that if a living specimen of one of the beasts can be captured and presented to a tribal chief, great riches will follow. Modern researchers have suggested that they may be unique elementals, or perhaps their gory tracks are actually left by wounded specimens of known animals. Sandman - Spoken of in Eastern and Northern European folklore, these faeries are said to enter the rooms of children at night and gently blow a magical sand-like substance into their eyes that makes them fall asleep. In reality, they are able to use this material to force anyone into a deep sleep, and then they are able to enter the dreams of that person and read their minds. Sandwalker - Enormous terrestrial scorpions, these monsters were mentioned in the mythology of the ancient Arabic people as giant crabs, which was incorrect. They bury themselves beneath the sand during the day to escape detection, though will eat horses and camels at night. Despite their hostility towards other fauna, they rarely eat humans. Sanger Road Witch - Born from the soul of a Californian mother who witnessed her daughter die in a hit-and-run incident, this wrathful ghost is said to have been formed when the woman devoted her rage to learning dark magic. She will now force cars to stop on her road, and will then inspect them using glowing red eyes to see if they are the driver who killed her child. If they are not, she will let them go. Sangudaemon - Personifying death by blood loss, these hideous demons resemble grotesque amalgamations of mosquito and spider features, and are known to capture human victims and drag them back to their lairs, where they will be cocooned in web and slowly drained of blood. The demons bathe in the blood until their bodies are bright crimson, and will devour the souls of their victims once they are completely bloodless. Stealthy predators, they will often frame vampires for their crimes. Ṣannāja - Rather weak and pathetic despite being enormous and physically imposing, these reptilian creatures are found in the mountains of Tibet, and have the potential to be dangerous due to their deadly, basilisk-like gaze that causes all those who are caught in it to drop dead. However, if one of the creatures sees its potential victim first, it will be the one to die instead of the onlooker. Local animals are known to approach the beasts with their eyes closed. You can't make this stuff up. Santelmo - Sometimes known as St Elmo's Fire, these glowing blue creatures are referred to in the folklore of the Philippines region. They appear to sailors during violent sea-storms, and are regarded as omens of good fortune or survival. The flames with which they burn are heatless and non-consuming, which has led to some speculation that they caused the phenomenon of the Biblical burning bush. Santer - Found in swamps and around small villages across North America, these curious feline predators are covered in glowing green fur and have hard knots in their tails, that can be used as club-like weapons. They emit baby-like wails that make dogs too scared to attack, and leave signature scorch marks on their victims due to their physically phosphorescent hair. Santurce Gargoyle - First seen in 1996 by a policeman named Jorge Rafael Martin Viñas and his coworkers after they decided to investigate a loud crashing sound on a roof in the monster's namsake Puerto Rican locale, this 8ft-tall humanoid was described as a blue-black creature with bat-like wings and bright red eyes, and is thought to be one of the earliest recorded variants of the Guánica Gargoyle or La Gárgola. It took off upon seeing them, leaving the partially-eaten corpse of a cat behind. Sânziană - Green-clad Romanian faeries, these beings are said to emerge from their realm once a year during a Summer Solstice festival held in traditional villages. They will bless plants in their locality with fertility and magical abilities, making them particularly potent in love spells. However, if any male sees one of the beings whilst working, he will slowly either go insane or deaf. Sapo Fuerzo - Also known as the 'strong toad', these extraordinary amphibians are found in the South American Andes of Chile, and can be distinguished from regular toads by their glowing skin and tortoise-like shells which make them incredibly resistant to harm. They are seemingly capable of manipulating gravity to a certain degree, attracting or repelling anything nearby through the sheer power of their gazes. The only way to kill a Sapo Fuerzo is to burn it completely to ashes. Sarangay - Guarding a precious gemstone lodged in their foreheads, these strange Filipino creatures are thought to be related to the legendary Greek minotaur. Those who try to steal the gems will be hunted down and mercilessly killed by the creatures, which can supposedly also produce large quantities of noxious smoke when enraged. Saraph - Attacking and swallowing the evil and the sinful, these angelic dragons resemble fiery serpents with three pairs of large wings, and are usually found around God's throne room. They are almost eternally in flight, and are capable of injecting their prey with a lethal venom that causes spontaneous combustion. Sargassum - Responsible for at least some of the Bermuda Triangle phenomenon, this killer seaweed is found only in the North Atlantic, and is known to move itself subtly to deliberately ensnare large ships and boats. It has been known to forcibly pull small vessels down into the water, killing their crews and feeding on the nutrients from their corpses. Sarimanok - Said to dwell in Heaven according to Islamic traditions, these enormous birds resemble roosters or cockerels, and apparently crow loudly every morning to wake the animals of the planet from their sleep. However, they are not entirely benevolent as there are stories of them shapeshifting into human form and then eloping with beautiful human women, who are never seen again. They are depicted in Islamic art with decorative banners and scrolls hanging from their heads. Sárkány - Multi-winged dragons, these Hungarian creatures are said to be born when a pike fish is left on land for a long time, or when a rooster goes untamed for its entire life. They usually live in hollow dens in secluded mountains, and can only be drawn out by a person with powerful latent magic abilities. They are regarded as the bringers of rainstorms and tornadoes in local folklore, and thunder is said to be their roaring. Sarkomenos - Not much is known about these Cretan vampires besides their bloodsucking behaviour and presumably large stature, seeing as their name literally declares them to be the 'fleshy ones'. Like all other Greek vampires, they are sometimes said to possess human corpses, and to have once been human children who were born on the 25th of December, thus being transformed into vampires as punishment for having the same birthdate as the Virgin Mary. They are sometimes equated with ghouls. Sarmaree - Covered in light feathers and purple jewels, these beautiful Burmese creatures resemble white oxen, and have long fans at the ends of their tails that can be used as weapons. They adore themselves completely, and are some of the vainest creatures on the planet. This feeling is so extreme that others in their vicinity become enchanted and become selfish and egotistical. Sarmatian Sea Snail - Enormous gastropods found in the Baltic Sea, these rare creatures were documented in medieval manuscripts. Despite their bizarre and hideous appearance, they are timid creatures that only rarely come up from the water to feed on shoreline vegetation. The balls on their antennae glow, and they use these light patterns to communicate. Sarugami - Sometimes regarded as the fallen gods of an ancient Japanese monkey cult, these savage hairy humanoids resemble wild monkeys that wear clothes and are capable of human speech, and are known to demand annual human sacrifices from local villages. Hunters have been known to follow these innocent victims (often female) into forests to kill the creatures and end the misery of the villages. Sarugami are capable of controlling primates and hairy humanoids in their vicinity. Sasquatch - Considered to be guardians of nature and forests, these Native American faeries have been spoken of in mythology and folklore for centuries. They are capable of becoming invisible at will, as well as teleporting, and are often known to kidnap human women and steal from villages. However, they sometimes come to the aid of lost travelers, and exchange gifts with local settlements. Sassabonsam - These large bats are found in Ghana, and have enormous claws on their legs, which they use to snare prey that wander underneath them as they hang from the tree branches. Victims will be captured and drained of blood instantly, and then their remains will be disposed of beneath the tree, staining the soil a telltale shade of red. Satori - Japanese hairy humanoids, these pygmies live in densely-wooded areas and consume vegetable matter such as melons and tough leaves. They are mostly nocturnal, and have adapted to have abnormally large eyes to be able to see in darkness, and to avoid predation from larger animals. Despite not being formed through magical processes, they have notable psychic capabilities, and can read the minds of those close to them. Satyr - Lusty monsters, these goat-like beings stalk the woodlands of Greece and Europe, playing panpipes and leading travelers astray using the power of these magical songs. They are known to incite severe feelings of panic in their victims, and can control the very woods that they inhabit, twisting the paths and trees to make escape impossible. They are known to kidnap human women, in attempts to have sexual intercourse with them. Satyral - With a face like a human, long horns like those of an ox, and the body of a tiger, these mighty Indian beasts are truly a sight to behold. They are much rarer than manticores, to which they are thought to be closely related. There is a belief among local cultures that these creatures represent humans using shapeshifting abilities, though this is currently unconfirmed. Satyroi - Red-haired wildmen, these creatures are known to be native to several secluded islands off the African coast. Although associated with satyrs and fauns because of their name, they are rather more closely related to giant monkeys and sasquatches. They are known to be predators of humans, and are said to particularly target women for an unknown reason. Saumen Kar - Roaming the Canadian and Greenlandic wastelands as a nomadic society, these hairy humanoids are regarded as elementals of snow and ice in Inuit mythology. They are rare and antisocial even among their own species, often just constructing makeshift igloos and huts to rest for short periods, before once again continuing with their solitary wanderings. Saurophidian - Supposedly combining the features of serpents and lizards, these massive reptilian predators lurk in the swamps and rivers of a lost valley in the center of Russia. They live alongside a relic population of woolly mammoths, and have been seen to hunt these massive animals by leaping out of the water and snatching them like large crocodiles. Sawney Bean - Although not originally a supernatural entity, this terrifying serial killer was to be found in the caves of Scotland during the 16th century, and generated a large number of offspring. This large clan would plan careful ambushes in order to kill and eat passersby, and it eventually took over 400 soldiers with horses and hounds to take down the family for good. However, there have recently been sightings of ghostly attackers in and around his home cave systems. Saytoechin - Dwelling in the rivers and mountains of North America, these large mammals resemble prehistoric giant ground sloths, and are thus thought to be related to these creatures. They are well-known for devouring beavers and other small aquatic mammals, flipping over the dams that they build using their massive claws and then consuming the beavers inside. There have been sightings of the creatures in modern times, and they have been said to be larger than a grizzly bear. Sazae-Oni - Enormous sea snails, these creatures are found on the coasts of Japan, and are often seen with a thick layer of seaweed and kelp covering their faces, which leads to rumours that they have long hair like beautiful women. Their eye stalks feature glowing organs at their ends, which they use to 'dance' above the surface of the water and lure victims towards them. Scamp - Small goblin-like creatures, these agile faeries are found in caves and European mountains, where they are known to snatch belongings from and raid the homes of those in their area. If they are confronted, they are able to produce bolts of preternatural flame from their hands, as well as become invisible. Scarab - Small beetles with feathered wings, these creatures move in swarms and are attracted by extremely hot or bright conditions. They were thought to represent restoration of life in ancient Egyptian tradition, and are capable of healing wounds that they sustain using an enzyme that their bodies produce. Scarbo - Specialized bloodsucking dwarves, these French monsters enter the rooms of sleeping artists and poets in order to psychologically torment them and feed on their blood. They instantly cauterize the wounds using their red-hot metal fingers, and then spend the rest of the evening making threats and destroying the rooms of their victims. When morning comes, the creatures disappear instantly. Sceadugenga - Somewhere between being living and undead or ghostly, these shadowy nature elementals are found in the forests of England, and although they are normally incorporeal they will sometimes assume the forms of human children (with black irises) to seek out companionship and food from local families. They either eventually leave out of boredom, or fall in love with a human and stay with them indefinitely, eventually losing their abilities and forgetting their supernatural origins. Scheznyk - Also known as 'vanishers', these eerie Ukrainian spirits resemble normal humans at first glance, but will then suddenly disappear from view, often in public places or surrounded by witnesses. It is speculated that they are either the ghostly manifestations of lost souls, or possibly some kind of dark trick or lure created by demonic forces. Schiachperchten - Roaming the mountains of Alpine regions such as Germany and Europe in the Winter months, these strange horned creatures are thought to be closely related to the Krampus, but are more intelligent. They appear to be mostly benevolent, using their frightening appearance to ward away evil spirits in the houses that they visit at Christmastime. Schimäre - Shapeshifting hybrid beasts, these creatures are known from the heraldic folklore of Germany, and are said to have the body of a chimera and the torso of a beautiful human woman in their true forms. Like their Greek cousins, they are powerfully venomous and can produce large quantities of flames from their mouths when faced with a potential threat. Schnabelperchten - Appearing as humanoids with beak-like faces clad in knitted garments and straw slippers, these unnerving boogeymen are known from the Austrian folklore of the Rauris Valley in Salzburg, in which they are said to patrol villages on the 5th of January in order to check that homeowners have been cleaning their houses. They will cut open the stomachs of people who have failed this task before stuffing their bodies with the objects cluttering the house, similar to the Perchten. Schuimert - Found in the Gelderland province of the Netherlands, these Dutch demons are thought to represent rabies in Dutch folklore, and usually manifest to people who are infected with the disease as canine or bear-like creatures with foam around their mouths. They move around in vicious packs, and are often confused for hellhounds chasing down the souls of the damned when they are pursuing rabies victims. Very little else is known about them. Schwarze Mann - The most famous variants of the boogeymen in German folklore, these terrifying creatures usually resemble either shadow people or humanoids with dark clothes and faces blackened by ash and dirt. Although their name literally translates as 'black man', this does not refer to the colour of their skin, but rather to the darkness of the places in which they dwell, which include secluded forests and the wardrobes in dilapidated houses. There is a game called 'Wer hat Angst vorm schwarzen Mann?' which children play. Sciapod - Also known as monopods, these almost-ridiculous humanoids were first discovered living in India and Africa by ancient Greek explorers, though were also mentioned in European literature from the Middle-Ages. They are known to lie on their backs and protect themselves from the heat of the midday sun using the shadows generated by their single feet. Despite this physical characteristic that might otherwise be considered a handicap, they can leap great distances. Scitalis - Found in temperate forests and mountains across Europe, these colorful dragons were mentioned in several medieval bestiaries. They are slow moving creatures, though use their amazingly vibrant feathers to stun their human victims, allowing them to be caught up with easily. It is said that their body temperatures are so high that they must shed their skins all year round. Scorpie - Resembling mighty dragons with multiple female human heads, these fire-breathing Romanian creatures are said to have blood with miraculous qualities, that can grant an eternally ageless life to those that ingest it. They can move quickly through the sky despite their lack of wings, and they use their fiery abilities to repel those that seek to harvest their blood. Scorpion Man - Detailed in Sumerian mythology, these shapeshifting creatures are known to be descendants of the original Babylonian aqrabuamelu. They can be found in corrupted and poverty-ridden areas of modern cities, where they feed on the homeless population because of the lack of attention that other people pay to them. The venom that they inject from their stings has a corrupting effect on the souls of their victims. Scorpius - Created in ancient times by a Greek deity to protect the world against the giant named Orion, this massive scorpion was originally to be found on the island of Crete. Since then, the deities decided that it was too dangerous and so killed it, though named the constellation of 'scorpio' after it. There is some speculation that it may have had offspring before it was killed, though. Screaming Skull - Indistinguishable from normal human skulls unless they are removed from the mansions or farmhouses in which they are usually situated, these ghostly British artifacts are thought to be formed from the remains of people who were either murdered or wished to remain in their houses after death. If they are removed from their abodes, or perhaps transferred to more appropriate resting places, they will live up to their name and issue horrendous supernatural screams. Scylla - Although sometimes referred to as an aquatic variant of the hydra, this serpentine creature is actually more closely related to merfolk that have evolved an aberrant, multi-headed form. In ancient Greek mythology, it is said to have once been a beautiful nymph who was transformed into a monster by a jealous deity, and this seems to have a basis in reality. It is sometimes depicted with the torso of a beautiful woman, though has not yet been observed with such, leading to speculation Sea Armadillo - Roughly the size of a lion or tiger, these strange creatures are actually aquatic relatives of cats and felines, despite what their name may suggest. They are so named because of the hard shell with which their bodies are covered, and are known to be hostile towards humans. The first reports of the creatures came from the cold seas around Norway. Sea Bear - Representing a bizarre form of Japanese bear that has adapted to live a mostly aquatic lifestyle, these creatures are thought to be the descendants of a relict population of polar bears stranded in the area at the end of the last Ice Age. They are vicious predators that are capable of hunting in both water and on land, and were first documented by the naturalist Steller in 1751. Although they usually prey on seals and otters, they have been known to overturn human boats. Sea Elephant - A rare genetic variant of the elephant seal, these animals are found on the coastlines of Africa and other Southern countries. There is not enough variation between the animals to classify them as a separate species, even though they have striking white bodies and long trunks. They can make loud honking sounds using these appendages. Sea Griffin - First recorded in the mosaics and heraldic artwork of 16th century Europe, these bizarre creatures are thought to be descendants of true griffins that have adapted for an aquatic lifestyle. They are still capable of flying, and make their nests atop mountains and cliffs, guarding them ferociously. Like other aquatic creatures from that time period, they have evolved to have a long tail complete with finned fluke. Sea Monk - This fish was discovered in 1546 off the coast of Denmark, and was said to resemble a Catholic monk. Since then, the animals have become considerably rarer, though are still sometimes observed in deep areas of cold seas. Sea Monkey - In the 1940s, these genetically modified invertebrates were given out as pets to children all over the world. They have since escaped into the oceans, and are incredibly intelligent and adept at using their long fingers and tails to manipulate their environments. There have been reports of the creatures hijacking ships. Sea Orm - This 200ft long sea serpent once lurked on the coasts of Norway, and would sometimes crawl up onto land to snatch lambs and pigs. They used to attack vessels that sailed into their territory, though have not been seen since the 14th century. Sea Rhino - Living in the waters around Sweden, these aquatic reptiles have large horns on their noses that resemble those of their namesake mammals, and are used to feel for vibrations in the sand generated by their crustacean prey. They are not as dangerous as heraldic maps may suggest, and do not attack human ships and boats without provocation. Despite this, there are stories about the creatures occasionally hunting merfolk and sailors who fall overboard. Sea Serpent - Everywhere in the world, these massive creatures have been being reported consistently since humankind first mastered the use of boats. They are most often described as reptilian in texture, and either black or dark green in coloration. They swim using undulations of their bodies, forming a line of humps in the water as they swim. Sea Stag - Originally depicted in the heraldic artwork of Britain and Europe, these strange fish have long antlers and hair around their faces, which they use for sexual display to other members of their species. Some individuals of this species have small forelimbs that resemble the hooves of deer, suggesting a hybrid origin for the animals as a whole. Sea Trow - Described as being 'black as Hell' and bloated to the size of a bull, these monstrous undead creatures are mentioned in Icelandic folklore, and are thought to be closely related to Draugs due to their similar behaviour and abilities. They are created whenever a person drowns in the ocean, and will reappear as enormous monsters covered in curly hair and seaweed, using shapeshifting abilities to transform into rocks along the sea-shore. Like the Draugr, they maintain their memories. Sea Wyvern - Although originally thought to be nothing more than a flight of fancy taken by heraldic illustrations, these creatures have since been discovered to be aquatic variations of the wyvern. They are shown in drawings to have the tails of fish, though in reality just have a broadened and thick fin at the end of their bodies. Sea-Bee - This rare creature was reported in Heraldic bestiaries in the Medieval times, though is actually an unknown species of isopod. Unlike all other members of their family, they have the ability to fly using insect-like wings. They will breach from the surface of the Mediterranean, and can snatch fish in their jaws. The tracks that they leave on the seabed are often mistaken for living trilobites. Sealah - Capturing and torturing male passersby by forcing them to dance and using them as hunting practice, these hideous hybrid creatures are born from the unholy unison of a human and a djinn, and are usually found in forested regions in the Middle East and China, and ancient Arabic explorers would mark off islands on their maps as the territory of these beastly creatures. They are hated by wolves, which will immediately attempt to kill the djinn once they catch sight of them. Sefer - Closely related to the Axex that they so closely resemble, these ancient Egyptian griffins are described as having the heads of eagles or hawks and the bodies of winged big cats. They are often seen in the same areas as Aker, and the two felines have been known to hunt together in a coordinated manner. In the local language, their name translates as 'tomorrow'. Seilenoi - Created when satyrs or fauns reach unusually grand ages, these ancient creatures are mentioned in Greek mythology, and act as bodyguards or companions for Dionysus or similar deities. They resemble heavily overweight humanoids with the legs of bulls, and sometimes have curling horns to match their bovine hindquarters. Seilenoi are all directly descended from the god known as Silenus, and they are thought to have given birth to younger satyrs and oreads. Seiryu - These large blue dragons are found in the skies of the East, where they control rain and plant growth. However, they behave as pagan gods, and so have thus become weaker and more vengeful due to their lack of worship in modern culture. Seeing as they are supernatural creatures, they can possess human bodies. Séítáád - Native American sand elementals, these creatures are spoken of as living sandstorms in the folklore of the Navajo people. They take many different forms in order to kill and engulf their prey, and are known to suffocate unwary travelers beneath massive dunes of sand. Şekä - Dwelling in forests and derelict houses, these Turkish faeries are field elementals, and delight in leading unwary travelers astray, or trampling them with horses if they fall asleep within their territories. They are capable of producing supernatural diseases within human populations, and are known to force those that they capture to sing for them. Şekä are also known as Sheka, and are not to be confused with the leshy. Selenite - These specially adapted aliens were found inside the crust of Earth's moon by early astronauts, and seem to be loath to make full contact with humans because of our species' warlike nature. They resemble hybrids of Earth's amphibians and insects, and have a culture as advanced as the ancient Romans. Seljordsormen - Found in Lake Seljordsvatnet of Norway, these reptilian lake monsters resemble 30-45ft long anaconda-like serpents with multiple humps on their backs, and have been seen by over 500 people since the late 1750s, at least one of which successfully cut one of the beasts in half, only to see its lower half slither back into the lake. In August of 2000, there was an attempt by a scientific organisation to capture a juvenile specimen, but it was mostly unsuccessful despite sonar use. Selkie - Shapeshifting creatures, these beings are known from Scottish and Icelandic folklore, and are said to be able to change from a seal form into that of a human by removing their seal skin. These skins will then be hidden in a secure location, and the selkie will then go up onto land to blend in with the human population. There are stories of human men having selkie wives due to these terrestrial escapades. Senkia - Also known as 'Yavina', these vampire-like spirits are known from Bulgarian folklore, and are said to form from the blood of murdered humans 40 days after their deaths have taken place, and to then wander the world for however long they would have otherwise lived had they not been murdered. They emit hideous screeching noises, calling out the names of those who were their family in life or their murderers, and then kill these people if they answer. Water and fire can repel them. Senmurv - Found mostly in Iran and the Middle East, these bipedal relatives of griffins usually make their nests in areas with abundances of water. They have brightly-coloured wings and heads that resemble those of wolves or dogs, but are not often known to hunt humans in their territory. The animals live incredibly long lifespans, though are not technically immortal contrary to popular conception. Seonaidh - Also known as Shoney, this godlike water spirit was originally described in ancient Scottish lore as resembling a hair-covered humanoid with a row of fins running down its back, and it is said that yearly human sacrifices were once made to it, involving a man having his throat slit and then thrown overboard. Eventually, this barbaric practice evolved into simply offering Seonaidh some ale along with an appeasement chant. However, it still keeps the souls of the drowned for itself. Seps - Resembling a serpentine, blue dragon, these creatures are found in African forests and grasslands. They are feared by people in their vicinity because of their lethal venom, which can literally liquefy flesh to which it is exposed. This venom can luckily be treated using common remedies such as vinegar, though this only works sometimes. Seraphim - Constantly illuminated with blinding holy fire, these hypnotic angels have six wings, and are said to stand guard at the very throne of God himself when they are not commanding other angels. In the Bible, they are supposed to constantly sing praises to God, but in reality they are capable of weaponizing their voices to defend themselves. Serim - Dwelling deep within the deserts of the Middle East, these brutish djinn resemble hairy humanoids, and patrol the wastelands in a nomadic manner, ferociously guarding their territory from human intrusion. They are mostly unknown to modern researchers, due to the secluded nature of their settlements and their unintelligible language. Some ancient religious texts refer to them as evil spirits. Serpopard - Obviously supernatural, these beasts are known from ancient Egypt, and are said to appear as lionesses with the coiling necks of snakes. Their name is a modern coinage that was created because they were never named in folklore. They were referred to as symbols of the untamed chaos that uncharted lands would bring to the ancient pharaohs who tried to explore them. Servanas - Found in Switzerland and Northern Italy, these household faeries are said to be capable of helping around the home and growing crops for the inhabitants, but are more often known to cause mischief such as tangling the manes of horses and stealing small but essential household items, and for greatly enjoying the irritation they cause. Like brownies, they will be compelled to perform helpful tasks if they are offered bowls of cream, and will cease the pranks if the humans laugh at them. Sesame Street Entity - Commonly mimicking the appearances of puppet characters from their namesake children's television show, as well as other assorted cartoon characters and figures that would be appealing to younger audiences, these shapeshifting ultraterrestrial entities are reported to manifest to children and play with them in a seemingly-harmless manner in order to gather information. Like other aliens, they seem incapable of disguising the blackness and insect-like nature of their eyes. Sessho-Seki - Formed from the wrathful soul of a Japanese noblewoman who was discovered to be a kumiho in disguise, this incredibly haunted rock is said to kill anyone who comes into contact with it. It was eventually exorcised by a priest, who begged the spirit to leave, but not before fragments of the rock were shipped out of the country. Their locations are not known. Seven Whistlers - Heard after dusk and during the early morning hours of the Winter months across Europe and Britain, this bizarre phenomenon is feared in maritime folklore and by coal-miners, and is usually said to manifest as a flock of seven birds emitting loud whistling or yelping noises, foretelling death or great calamity. They are sometimes said to be the souls of sailors or colliers who return to tell their cohorts of danger, or the damned ghosts of those who worked on the Sabbath. Sevenoaks Jackal - Terrorising its namesake English locale in the early 1900s, this bizarre canid creature was said to have disemboweled sheep and livestock, leaving behind characteristic bites on their shoulders. It was eventually hunted down and killed on 1st March 1905 by a group of sixty armed men, before finally being shot to death by a gamekeeper who revealed that it was a jackal, but gave no explanation as to how or why it got to Sevenoaks. The British anomaly was then taxidermied. Sewer Gator - First encountered by maintenance workers in the 1920s, these monstrous reptilian bogeymen resemble pale crocodiles or alligators, and are found in the tunnels beneath big North American cities such as New York. It is said that the ancestors of the vile creatures were pet alligators that grew too large, and were thus flushed down toilets into the sewers, where they bred and mutated. Sha - Associated with the Egyptian god Set, these jackal-like beasts are chimeric hellhounds that resemble greyhounds with large ears and forked tails, and are also known as Salawa or Set Animals. In recent years, there have been reports of creatures matching these descriptions stalking the suburbs of Egypt and possibly even killing travelers. Shachihoko - Capable of controlling rain and clouds, these supernatural fish are found in the waters of North Japan, where they are feared by fishermen. Their bodies are covered by spikes and spines, and their tail always curves up towards the sky, presumably functioning as some kind of lightning rod. They are capable of swallowing large amounts of water and then spitting it out at great velocity, which enables them to sink ships with ease. Shade - According to the literature and poetry of various cultures, particularly Ancient Greek and Judaeo-Christian, these shadowy ghosts are the souls of the deceased who now reside in an eternally dark Underworld called Sheol. Only kings and heroes have the right to go to a 'divine sphere' after their deaths, thus escaping Sheol and avoiding becoming a Shade. The Hebrew Witch of Endor summons the soul of the Biblical Samuel, an event which is controversial among religious scholars. Shadhavar - Deer-like mammals, these single-horned creatures move around in small herds among the arid grasslands of the Middle East. Their horns have hollow branches that make beautiful music when the wind passes through them, and supposedly makes all creatures in their vicinity stop to listen. This description brings to mind the possibility that their songs have hypnotic powers, though this is yet to be investigated. Shadow Doll - Allegedly capable of completely stopping the hearts of its victims, this presumably demonically possessed doll is currently contained at the Warrens Occult Museum in North America's Connecticut, alongside other infamously haunted effigies such as Annabelle. As well as causing eventual heart failure, it is also known to literally stalk the dreams of its soon-to-be victims, plaguing them with nightmares and insomnia before finally killing them. Very little is known about its origins. Shadow Person - Although originally dismissed as nothing but a symptom of sleep paralysis, these beings were later discovered to be genuine paranormal entities. They appear as masses of shadow that take on a humanoid shape, and will create feelings of dread and fear in those around them. Shagamaw - Appearing as hybrid creatures with the legs of a moose and the torso of a bear, these strange North American creatures enjoy causing mischief by alternating between walking on two legs and four, thereby confusing potential trackers and causing arguments. Strangely, they enjoy consuming cotton and linen, and will often steal and eat clothing left unattended at campsites. Shag-Foal - Shapeshifting English hellhounds that are also known as 'Picktree Brag', these creatures usually take the forms of shaggy horses or hounds covered in thick, shadowy hair with fiery red eyes. They are thought to be related to faeries, possibly controlled by them, and are known to chase and frighten human passersby. However, there are no reports of them ever catching or killing anyone. Shagimaw - Akin to an antlered bear, these North American monsters are said to have the hooves of an elk and the body of an ursine predator. They are capable of walking both on all fours and on their hind legs. In the latter mode of locomotion, they are sometimes mistaken for wendigos. Shahapet - Standing guard over various orchards and areas of natural beauty across Armenia, these curious reptilian beings resemble humanoid snakes, and are usually benevolent to humans if they are treated with respect. Some smaller varieties of the creatures have been known to also protect and clean houses that are built on their territory. Shakōki-Dogū - Goblin-like constructs, these bug-eyed Japanese stone figures are thought to have been constructed by ancient people under the influence of Grey aliens, and to have originally been used in fertility rituals. It has been speculated that the ornate patterns on their bodies represent the apparatus of spacesuits. Shamir - Attested to in ancient Jewish stories, this immensely powerful worm is thought to be one of the miraculous items created by the Judaeo-Christian God to aid human. It has the power to cut through almost any material by simply being in close proximity to it, and was often used to cut and carve intricate gemstones and statues, including the legendary temple of Solomon. Despite its seemingly-limitless power, it cannot cut through lead or other insulating materials. Shampe - Patrolling the forests and woodlands of North America, these hairy humanoid monsters resemble anthropomorphic bears or apes with long snouts. They are spoken about in the folklore of Native cultures, and are renowned for kidnapping human women and children. It is said that their pungent smell always alerts potential prey in their vicinity. Shangui - Savage and rapacious, these incredibly fast moving hairy humanoids are known from the traditional lore of China, and are often confused with yerens because of their similar habitat. Like the more docile primates, these monsters are found in remote mountain areas, and have been known to attack villages and kidnap their inhabitants. Shantak - Resembling large birds with faces like horse skulls, these massive winged creatures can be summoned from an unknown realm by powerful magic users. They serve as steeds, though are vicious and carnivorous in the wild. The other dimension from which they hail was made famous by HP Lovecraft. Shar Khorkhoi - Mongolian relatives of dragons, these monstrous reptilian creatures live in the Gobi Desert, and feed on large animals that they hunt by sensing vibrations under the sand. Once one of the creatures leaves their underground nest of tunnels, several more are certain to follow, which often leads to small swarms of the beasts pursuing items of prey. Unlike the true death worms, they are not venomous, and instead rely on constriction to kill their prey. Sharale - Found in Turkey and the surrounding areas, this creature resembles a human with fur on its body and a horn on its head. It acts as a trickster, luring people into the forests and then strangling them with vines. Shedim - Only half-formed by the Judaeo-Christian God because he stopped working during the first Sabbath, these ugly demons resemble humanoid entities with the feet of roosters, and are known from Middle-Eastern mythology. They are usually hostile and duplicitous, and young children are sometime sacrificed to them by cult-like organizations. The presence of shedim can be detected by throwing ash onto the ground, for their footprints will appear even if their bodies are invisible. Sheepsquatch - Detailed in campfire stories and urban legends all across the North American state of West Virginia, this woolly entity resembles a white hairy humanoid with two long fangs and horns much like those of a young goat, and is known to emit piercing screams and to smell strongly of sulphur, perhaps implying a demonic origin. It runs quadrupedally, and has sometimes been said to charge at cars passing through its forest habitat. Its urine is considered highly toxic and corrosive. Shekhinah - Regarded as the feminine aspect of the Judaeo-Christian God according to Kabbalahist Jewish literature, this supremely powerful deity is regarded as one of the sefirot. She is sometimes referred to as the 'Daughter of God', and it is said that the harmonious relationship that she maintains with the other sefirot is what allows the world itself to be sustained by a constant supply of divine energy. Shekhinah is metaphorically equated with the moon, reflecting divine light. Shellycoat - Thought to be a variety of boogeyman, these creatures haunt the banks and hills on the sides of Scottish rivers, and wear clothing covered in polished shells. They are not malicious, though are known to lead those who wander into their territory astray. There are stories of shellycoats submerging themselves in water and then crying out as if they are drowning, to try and lure people into their lakes. Shen - Producing powerful illusions of beautiful ancient Japanese pagodas and cities above the waterline, these massive clams are tricksters that are responsible for disappearances at sea. The illusions that they produce are known to cause sailors that see them to sail off course in an attempt to land on their phantom shores. It is for this reason that it is possible that they are related to the will-o-the-wisp. Shenlong - Legendary Chinese dragons, these massive blue reptiles are thought to be nearly godlike in their levels of influence and power, and are held to be the bringers of rain and fertility to the land around them. People would take care not to offend them in ancient times, as the result would be thunderstorms and deadly drought. Shesha - Five headed serpents, these nāgas are said to be responsible for the expansion and movement of the universe in Hindu mythology. This tall tale seems to be based on their powerful ability to alter the gravitational properties of their immediate vicinity. Despite their monstrous appearance, they are surprisingly intelligent. Sheti - Mentioned in the folklore of Native American populations, these strange reptilian humanoids are thought to live in advanced systems of tunnels that run through North and Central America. They are sometimes referred to as 'snake brothers', and have the ability to control the minds of humans in their vicinity. Because of the age of their race, they are incredibly wealthy and hold hidden knowledge about the history of humans. Shezmu - Representing fine oils, perfume and wine as well as blood, execution and general slaughter, this violently contradictory ancient Egyptian deity was usually depicted as a lion-headed humanoid holding a butcher's knife, and is known to protect Ra on his nocturnal journey through the underworld by fighting or threatening various demons. He was worshipped in the Egyptian Old Kingdom period, with alcoholic feasts being held in his name, and pyramid texts offering prayers to him. Shime-Oni - Formed from coils of rope that were not properly burnt or disposed of, these Japanese tsukumogami will lurk on the corners of streets and in dark or secluded locations, and attempt to ambush travelers. They will wrap their victims up in their ropy bodies and strangle them to death, but they can be defeated by burning them as they were originally supposed to have been. Shinigami - Possessing humans who are in prolonged contact with dead people and death in general, these rogue Japanese angels will attempt to make their hosts commit suicide or kill others. They do this because they are closely associated with burial grounds or battlefields, and attempt to draw other people to join the dead that they tend to in these areas. Shiofuki - Resembling humanoid pipefish, these bizarre and annoying Japanese merfolk are covered in tiny hairs to which the salt of the sea sticks to. They are usually found in secluded bodies of water far away from human society, and are known to emerge from the water to spit streams of salty water at passersby. Because of the lack of detail in the scrolls on which they were originally depicted, very little is known about them. Shiqq - Headless djinn, these Arabic creatures are supposedly only half-formed, which explains their terrifying and unnatural appearance. They have glowing eyes and a large mouth in their chest, and are said to feed on the souls of those that they attack. There are several varieties of the creatures, some of which only have one leg or arm, and some of which have long tails. Shirime - Only mildly annoying but still grotesque and disturbing to look at, these bizarre Japanese pests originally resemble regular humans, and will wander around empty streets and stop passersby. Once they are given attention, they will immediately bend over and reveal a large eye in place of their anus, which glows like lightning. They seem to gain pleasure from pointlessly frightening human victims, and do not do anything else that could be considered harmful. Shirk - Acting as false gods, these immensely powerful beings are created by the large-scale worship of a manufactured idol that does not represent a previously existing deity. They are usually evil and corrupt beings, and will harm the sanity of those that worship them. Creation of these godlike tulpas is referred to as the only unforgivable sins in the teachings of Islamic texts. Shiro Ukari - Resembling the classic ideal of a ghost, these bizarre Japanese spirits float aimlessly from place to place, and their name can be interpreted to mean someone who is totally naive and doing nothing with their lives. They are mostly depicted in classic artwork of the Edo Period, and are rarely seen in real life, but are thought to appear around humans who share their pointless characteristics. Shiryō - While ikiryō are effectively the ghosts of the living, these Japanese ghosts represent the restless and malevolent souls of the deceased, and are considerably less pleasant and beautifully mysterious than the often-conflated yūrei. The ikiryō appear to their loved ones just before their deaths, but shiryō will manifest after their deaths, and will either simply say goodbye or will pursue and stalk their loved ones with the intent of dragging them to the Afterlife with them. Shīsā - Found on various small islands off the coast of Japan, these little gargoyles resemble hybrids of lions and dogs, and are often seen to perch on top of buildings that they protect. They usually move in pairs, and the male individual of the couple provides the surrounding area with good fortune while the female one guards against natural disasters. Depending on which area of Asia they live in, they protect different classes of buildings, such as temples or graveyards. Shiwanna - Traveling across the skies of North America using bizarre rainbow-like beams, these elementals are known to bring heavy rain and vicious storms to the areas around them. They are sometimes associated with the ascended souls of the deceased, though this is not known to be true. Shock - Appearing as a hybrid of a devilish horse and an enormous dog or wolf, these terrifying hellhounds have been seen in the Suffolk region of Britain, and are said to cause the deaths of those that touch them. A particularly distressing story involves one of the monsters breaking into a church and attacking a priest, who then 'shriveled up' and died. Shoggoth - Resembling enormous amoeba, these carnivorous monsters are thought to be relatives of the Leviathan, and are able to form mouths, eyes and various appendages on their bodies at will. They were originally concealed beneath the Antarctic, though have since woken up due to Global Warming. Shōjō - Lurking in Japanese areas where there is a large amount of alcohol and drinking present, these small and annoying faeries are only perceptible if the onlooker is drunk. However, they can be used as assassins by dark magic users, who are known to instruct them to poison sources of alcohol. Malevolent shōjōs can only be killed by a sword that has been blessed by a Shintō priest. Shōkera - According to a long-forgotten Japanese folk religion, these terrifying demons will stalk those who seek to violate the laws of Heaven by evading the judgment of their souls. They resemble large and dark-skinned creatures, and lurk atop roofs or over doorways, observing the occupants of a building and monitoring their actions. If these occupants are found to be wicked, the vengeful creatures will pounce on them and tear them to shreds. Shtojzovalle - Rare faeries found in the forests of Albania and Europe, these diminutive and extraordinarily beautiful beings are similar to many other faeries from world cultures, including sylphs. They are very fond of singing and dancing, and have sometimes been known to marry humans, but can only remain in these relationships if their human partner gives them clothes. If a person moves into a house built on ground inhabited by the Shtojzovalle, they will be menaced by poltergeist activity. Shtriga - These life-sucking monsters appear as rotting humanoids draped in black robes, and will drain the life-forces of children by night, leaving their victims comatose by the next morn. The touch of this monster will rot wood, and they can be killed by stabbing it with iron whilst it is feeding, which will cause all of the victims to regain consciousness. Shu - Similar to other black big cats, these smallish Chinese predators have smooth black fur with pronounced stripes, and are thought to have been prized by ancient rulers and noblemen as pets or trophies. These tigrine animals are far less common nowadays, and some researchers have suggested that they may be extinct. Shudala Madan - Known from the folklore of the Tamil people of India and Sri Lanka, these unique ghoulish elementals are normally found in graveyards, and linger about in places where executions or murders have taken place. They are said to be comprised of fire and water, and will either live underwater or in areas of extreme heat and flammability. Due to a gift from the deity Siva, they can shapeshift as well as transmute matter into other materials. Shug Monkey - Roaming the hillsides and roads of the English locale of Cambridgeshire, this spectral creature combines the features of black dogs and hairy humanoids, seeing as it usually takes on a hellhound-like appearance but is also said to have simian features. It can alternate between walking bipedally and on all fours, and is capable of appearing and vanishing as it pleases. Witnesses describe their encounters as frightening and menacing, but the creature itself doesn't attack them. Shui Gui - The wrathful souls of those who drowned and were not mourned, these Chinese ghosts dwell in the bodies of water where they died, and will seek to drown those that swim in these locations. They will then possess the dead bodies of their victims and return to the surface, literally taking over their victims' lives. The victims' souls will then take the place of the ghosts and the cycle will continue. Shui Houzi - Closely related to kappas, these simian Chinese creatures live in isolated bodies of water such as mountaintop springs or lakes, and usually feed on fish. However, they have sometimes been known to grab children that stray too close to the water and drown them before drinking their blood. Their presence can be detected by the strong smell of wet fur. Shunka Warakin - As the largest relative of the American hyenas and the ringdocus, these large predators are feared by followers of Native American folklore for their sheer power and brutality. Their name means 'carries off dogs', and so they are often said to be responsible for the disappearances of local pets or livestock. Despite this reputation, attacks on humans are becoming worryingly more common. Si’Lat - Commonly held as the least hostile variety of djinn, these shapeshifting Middle Eastern creatures resemble centaurs in their true forms, though often take on the appearances of attractive humans. They are usually helpful and understanding towards humans, and have sometimes been known to integrate themselves into their societies entirely. Far less violent than their relatives, they prefer to negotiate their ways out of combat. Sianach - Appearing as skeletal deer with long and pointed teeth, these deceptive monsters stalk the highlands of Scotland, and will feed on unsuspecting farmers and their livestock. Very little is known about them, though there is some speculation that they may have the ability to make themselves invisible when hunting prey. Siats - Related to the other monstrous clowns of the world, this creature seems to be among the most deadly of its relatives. It is capable of teleportation and telekinesis, and feeds on human flesh, especially that of children. The monster seems to be confined to Utah and Colorado. Sidhe - Found in the British Isles, these faeries live in colonies under distinctive mound-like structures, from which they will often emerge to kidnap human children. Under these mounds, there is thought to be an entrance to a different universe to our own, though it is unknown if this is the same one that most faeries hail from. Sielulintu - Protecting either the human soul or human infants when they are asleep and potentially vulnerable to possession or supernatural attack, these Finnish angels take on the forms of white birds. They are depicted in traditional art, and it is customary to keep a wooden bird by the side of the bed in Finland. Sierpa - Those who break cultural taboos such as those warning against marrying inside a family are transformed into these monstrous reptilian shapeshifters, taking on the forms of gargantuan rattlesnakes, and being preyed upon by the alien beings known as Argolito. They usually dwell in canyons and mountainous regions, and are capable of splitting themselves up into multiple different aspects, one of which resembles a human female dressed in white according to a North American folktale. Sigbin - Spoken of in the mythology of the Philippines, these caprine beasts are capable of becoming invisible in order to drink the blood of human victims during the night. They are known to become particularly violent during Holy Week, and will tear the hearts out of their victims' chests. Because of their power, they are sometimes kept as familiars by dark magic users and aswangs. Siguanaba - Terrifying undead creatures, these horse-headed boogeymen are found in the forests and graveyards of the Philippines, and appear as beautiful women when viewed from behind. They use this appearance to lure unfaithful human victims towards them, and will then either scare them to death with their skeletal faces, or drive them insane with a touch. Sil:Quey - Often mistaken for horned alligators because of their large size and distinctive gills, these black-skinned amphibians are relatives of salamanders, and dwell in various bodies of water across Canada and British Columbia. In the 1900s, a hunter called Warren Scott allegedly caught a number of specimens of these creatures and dissected them to analyze their biology. His claims of finding them in a 'lost valley' have recently come under scrutiny, though. Silky - Draped in ornate silk garments, these Scottish household faeries often appear as morose or contemplative human women, and are known to finish domestic tasks overnight. Usually, the only sign of their presence is the rustling of their clothes, though they have been known to attack servants and other household workers out of jealousy or resentment. They have sometimes been known to spook horses and fell trees. Silvani - Thought to be closely related to the ancient Roman deity known as Silvanus who would watch over agricultural fields, promote fertility among herds of cattle, and ward off wolves, these North Italian faeries are sometimes confused with satyrs because of their habitat. There are usually three of these spirits per property, and they are said to resemble nymph-like winged humanoids dressed in flowing red clothing and animal furs. They can mate with the Aguane to produce hybrid Salvanelli. Silver Swimmer - Found in deep lakes across Central Asia and Russia, these enormous alien humanoids resemble three-meter tall ultraterrestrials clad in tight-fitting silvery suits with spherical helmets covering their heads, and are thought to be the evolved descendants of an ancient king of Kyrgyzstan called Ossounes. They were first witnessed in 1982 when a group of military divers encountered three of their rank, and were propelled out of the water by an unseen force upon trying to capture the alien. These victims all either died of decompression sickness or developed brain damage. Silverpilen - Created from the late-night paranoia of denizens of the Swedish city of Stockholm, this frightening tulpa stops at random train stations at unpredictable intervals, and attempts to pick up unsuspecting passengers. Any humans that board the ghostly train will eventually be transported to a hellish train station with no exits, from which they will never return. Silverpilen is also a physical train, though its odd appearance has spawned urban legends, which in turn created a tulpa. Simurgh - Gigantic godly creatures, these winged canines are spoken of in the mythology of the Middle East and Iran, and are said to be large enough to carry off elephants or whales. They are said to purify the water and land around themselves, thus creating fertility and life, and to have a natural adversity towards serpents and reptiles. Despite appearing more like benevolent deities than creatures, they are technically classified as hybrid monsters. Sindura - Appearing as armored humanoid phoenixes or golden birds, these awe-inspiring Hindu entities are thought to be one of the twelve species of beings that each possess the features of animals in the Chinese zodiac. They are usually armed with long staffs, and are assumed to be skilled fighters because of this. Sin-Eater - Consuming either a psychic or physical meal to absolve selected recently deceased individuals of their sins or any curses that may have been placed on them, these religious magic users are known from cultures all around the world, and are either revered or ostracised depending on the culture from which they hail. Jesus Christ is often thought to have been one, but he only had this ability due to divine heritage. Sin-eaters will carry the spiritual burdens of their clients. Singha - Similar to the famous foo dogs, these ornate predators resemble canines or lions, and are usually found ferociously guarding religious temples across Thailand and Asia. They are sometimes seen to possess enormous feathered wings, though individuals with such characteristics are rare. The females of the species are in charge of protecting cubs and juveniles. Singh's Tiger - Named after a famous naturalist that is credited with the first research into this species, these pseudo-melanistic predators are thought to simply represent a rare subspecies of regular tiger. They are usually found in the mangrove forest regions of Bengal in Asia, and their pelts are highly prized among collectors. Sin-You - Relatives of the kirin and Western unicorn, these dragon-like creatures are found in many East Asian countries. Interestingly, they have the magical ability to sense if someone is lying, and their gaze burns all those who are untruthful whilst in their presence. It is for this reason that they are often kept in faery courts of law, to make certain that no lies are being told. Siren - Truly deadly creatures, these beasts were first spoken of in Greek mythology, and are mostly found around Grecian islands today. They resemble merfolk, though have long wing-like fins on their waists that they can use to fly. Their voices hypnotize all those that hear them, and can force sailors to crash their ships and other victims to kill each other. They can only be killed using a silver knife dipped in the blood of someone already under their spell. Sirin - Often confused with sirens, these magical birds are found in India, where they produce beautiful music that will make all mortals who hear it forget everything they know and ultimately die. It is said that only those who are truly happy with their lives can see and hear the creatures, which seems ironic seeing as their music causes death. Sirrush - Surviving ceratosaur dinosaurs, these agile predators roam the plains of the Middle East, where they hunt mid-sized animals such as sheep. They are often confused with Mušḫuššu due to their similar head ornamentation, though are not even in the same group of animals. When threatened, they will raise a brightly-colored frill around their necks and spit a blinding venomous substance. Sisimite - Lurking in the forests of Central America and Mexico, these rapacious hairy humanoids are known to attack groups of travelers, killing members of their own gender and kidnapping those that are not. They have been known to enter human dwellings and attempt to assault them, but are afraid of gunshot. Like other dwarfish humanoids, they sometimes appear to have backward-pointing feet. Sisiutl - Glowing serpents, these floating beasts were described in Native American folklore as having three heads, though this was a mistake based on the large fins that adorn their necks. They can shapeshift into human form, and their touch can cause death to anyone that they view as an enemy. Local tribesmen will often wear headbands or belts in the image of the creature to protect themselves. Sitri - Often appearing as a humanoid griffin or winged leopard, these strange medieval European demons are playful and mischievous, and enjoy meddling with the intimate relationships of humans. They are often responsible for infidelity, cheating and jealousy within a relationship, and sometimes even sexual crimes or public nudity due to possession. Siwil - Found in the Indonesian jungles of Java, these dwarfish hairy humanoids are thought to be closely related to Ebu Gogo, and are usually described as being below one meter in height and as having long hair reaching down to their shoulders. They are normally seen in small groups around lakes and rivers, searching for fish or crabs on which they feed, and are also known to be able to craft some rudimentary tools. When confronted with humans, they will either jump great heights or run away. Siyokoy - Brutish merfolk, these creatures appear as green-skinned humanoids with fins all over their bodies, and are found in the seas surrounding the Philippines. They will actively hunt humans and feed on their flesh, after drowning them by dragging them deep beneath the waves. There is some evidence that the creatures live in social groups among coral reefs. Skadegamutc - Created upon the death of a powerful dark magic user, these violent ghosts are simply corpses during the day, but will rise from the grave at night to wreak havoc on the living. They will kill, eat and curse anyone that they encounter, and can only be truly killed by burning their bodies to ashes. Skeleton - Spoken of in Western culture and art for centuries, these undead creatures spring from the ground when a powerful monster is slain over a graveyard or similar resting place. They are often powerful fighters, and have been known to slaughter entire villages in medieval times. Skeljaskrimsli - Covered in pangolin-like scales, these creatures have long claws and sharp fangs, as well as small trunks on their noses like those of tapirs. It has bulbous eyes on the top of its head, and seems to be semi-aquatic. There are reports from both Iceland and Greenland, though the latter is rarer. Skeppsrået - Guarding and maintaining boats and ships, these Swedish faeries resemble diminutive trolls, and are thought to be related to the klabautermann. Although they are usually helpful, they are known to inflict bad luck and property damage on people around them if they feel they have been disrespected. Skinned Tom - Detailed in urban legends originating in North America's Tennessee, this grotesque ghost is thought to have once been a handsome man who dated numerous women during his life, eventually choosing to date someone from outside his town, making love to her in a parked car. However, the woman's husband found them and stabbed her before skinning Tom alive with a hunting knife. Now, Tom's wrathful spirit seeks out couples making love in parked cars in order to teach them the same lesson. Skinwalker - According to Native American lore, these witches are able to change into the form of a monstrous wolf-like animal to exact their grudges and desires. In their animal forms, they appear deformed and sick, whereas their human forms are supernaturally strong and have glowing eyes. Skōlex - Serpentine aquatic crocodiles, these Indian creatures are known to devour livestock and humans that wander into their river habitat. They have large square teeth and bodies that measure roughly 4 meters long. Because of their appearance and distribution, they are often confused with the indus worm. Skolopendra - The largest sea monsters known to Ancient Greek explorers and historians, these massive creatures were said to be large enough to sink warships called triremes, and were described as having tails like those of crayfish and tentacle-like hairs on their heads. They have rows of numerous fins on their sides, which all paddle in synchronicity as they move through the water, resembling oars. Some researchers have posited a relation to the Con Rit due to their similar appearances. Skondhokata - Disturbing Indian ghosts, these headless entities are born from the souls of those who are killed in train or railway-related incidents, and will haunt the place of their death. They are known to lash out randomly at any that disturb them, and seeing as they are usually present at train stations, these victims are often unsuspecting passengers. Despite this, they seem content to frighten passersby rather than doing any real harm. Skookum - Close relatives to the sasquatch, these hairy humanoids are found in smaller numbers than the aforementioned creature. They are much larger in physical size, and more aggressive towards humans. They display some mild paranormal abilities, such as teleportation. Skötumóðir - Hideous fish that resemble monstrous skates, these creatures are known from the folklore of Iceland as 'skate mothers'. They are enormous in size and toxic to eat, and are not necessarily restricted to the water when hunting human prey. There are always swarms of skate swimming around the mother when they are underwater, and the creatures will become vengeful if they are caught. Skrat - Small and nimble, these goblin-like faeries are found in European caves and grottoes, where they hoard large quantities of gold and treasure, and plague potential thieves with annoying magic spells and hexes. They are sometimes associated with mylings and other child ghosts, and are regarded as shapeshifters in some other cultures. Some farmers have been known to strike deals with these creatures, at the expense of those around them, from whom they steal riches for their allies. Skriker - Nimble supernatural predators, these European creatures resemble hybrids of hounds and vampires, and are capable of disappearing and reappearing at will. They have the ability to mesmerize potential prey with their glinting white eyes, as well as shapeshifting into the form of humans that they eat. As a result of this, hunters have noticed that the creatures are deliberately making dens around morgues and operating theatres. Skrzak - Dwelling in labyrinthine caves generated beneath Polish territories by earthquakes, these winged purplish-black demons perpetually cackle maniacally and savage any intruders with their metallic claws and teeth. They will relentlessly pursue anyone who encroaches on their territory, and if their victims escape the grasp of their claws they will surely be driven insane by the constant cackling of the imps. Skunk Ape - Appearing as a large humanoid orang-utan, these creatures are found in the Florida Everglades and other swampy areas across North America. They are so named because of the potent and unpleasant odor that accompanies the creatures, and this pheromone is often used by hunters to repel other monsters. Skvader - A final member of the family of the jackalopes and wolpertingers, these animals resemble mountain hares with the back half and wings of a grouse. They are mostly found in Sweden, though have been imported into Western areas. Sky Serpent - Sometimes thought to be connected with aliens or ultraterrestrial UFOs, these flying creatures resemble massive snakes that swim through the air using an undulating motion, and do not seem to have wings or any other organ that would usually allow them to do this. There was a drastic spike in sightings in America during the 20th century, though they are being seen less frequently now. There are some rare reports that give the creatures draconian features, such as fire-breath. Sky Spitter - First witnessed in North America during 1975, these bizarre atmospheric beasts are usually found in Earth's stratosphere, and resemble small dark clouds that will move against the wind direction and change shape to something longer and slightly serpentine if they are intimidated. If they are forced into close human contact, they will literally inhale and fill themselves up with water vapor from the surrounding air, before pursing their lips and spitting torrents of freezing water. Skyfish - These strange aerial insects are thought to be close relatives of the commonly photographed rods, due to their shared distinctive body shape. They have several rows of wings running along their stick-like frame, and feed on aerial plankton and other small organisms. They make up a large portion of the prey animals in the foodchain of Earth's stratosphere. Slattenpatte - Truly strange-looking faeries, these Danish creatures are thought to be related to trolde, and are well-known for their long and pendulous breasts. There are no male members of their species, and they are known to procreate with human males to reproduce. They often use their breast-milk to feed other animals. Sleagh Maith - Often named as a synonym for the Aos Sí, these aerial faeries are spoken of in Irish and Scottish folklore, and were first widely studied by Reverend Robert Kirk in a book entitled 'The Secret Commonwealth', in which he claims that the entities' bodies are light and fluid, much like condensed cloud, allowing them to appear and disappear at will. They live inside the Earth, capable of accessing their subterranean dwellings through any fissure in the ground. Slender Man - One of the most terrifying and destructive tulpas ever created, this horrifying entity was first encountered in 2009 after it was inadvertently spawned through the use of an Internet forum website. It is capable of teleporting, and is known to viciously stalk young victims, slowly either driving them insane or kidnapping them, never to be seen again. Because of its similarity to other creatures, it is sometimes mistaken for a malevolent faery. Slide-Rock Bolter - Reported by North American lumberjacks during the 19th and early 20th centuries, these bizarre creatures resemble enormous fish or reptiles with branched tails that they use to cling onto the tops of mountains. They are ambush predators, and will wait on 45-degree slopes before unfastening their tails and sliding rapidly down the mountains and engulfing hapless passersby. A wily plot was once devised to destroy one of the creatures using gunpowder, which devastated a town. Slivercat - Found in the woodlands of North America and Canada, this predator wields small amounts of armour in its pelt as well as a deadly spiked club at the end of its tail. It preys on unsuspecting animals and sometimes humans, by ambushing them from trees and then disemboweling them with its tail. Slogutis - Nightmarish monsters, these Lithuanian demons are usually covered in vicious chains or spiked armor, and are known to cause sleep paralysis and physical agony in their human victims. Their exact appearance is unknown, because they are constantly shapeshifting and morphing to best match the fears and trepidation of their potential prey. Sluagh - Human souls that have been rejected by the Earth itself, these Scottish ghosts are known to fly around the night sky in flocks akin to those formed by birds. They enter the bedrooms of those who are soon to be dead and carry away their souls to be fed upon, and are sometimes said to carry away innocent people as well. West-facing windows are kept closed and bolted overnight by Scottish traditionalists in fear of the creatures. Snaga - Smaller and weaker evolutionary cousins of orcs, these creatures live in primitive subterranean dwellings. They are often used as soldiers by more powerful faeries or orcs, and are armed with crude scimitars or bows. Apparently their name means 'slave' in a long-lost language, suggesting that they were specially bred to be workmen. Despite this, they are still regarded as a recently-emerged species, due to their first mention being in modern fantasy literature. Snallygaster - These large predatory dinosaurs are descendants of the scansoriopterygid dinosaurs, and live in North American mountain ranges. They have feathery tails, which are often mistaken for octopus-like tentacles. One of these beasts landed in Washington DC in 1909, where it caused considerable panic and was discovered to have an aversion to 7-pointed stars. Snawfus - Mostly alluded to in North American lumberjack folklore, these winged deer live in the trees and forests, and have antlers that are covered in leaves and foliage. They leap from the treetops like monkeys, and make a distinctive call that sounds like 'halley-loo'. During the Autumn, they emit a blue vapor in order to attract other members of their species for mating. Snedronningen - This terrifying Danish elemental being is known to kidnap children and travelers that have become lost in the woods, and to exploit their psychological and physical weaknesses. It is capable of controlling swarms of living snowflakes, and producing extremely cold temperatures at will. Like most faeries, it is known to release captives if a deal is struck. Sniniq - Generally having a lot in common with other hairy humanoids at first glance, these bizarre Canadian creatures have glowing red eyes, and will roll them backwards in their heads and fire forth concussive beams if they are annoyed. It is not known how they do this, though it is clear that the creatures are supernatural rather than wholly biological like some of their other hairy humanoid relatives. Snoligoster - Truly ridiculous-looking creatures, these North American reptiles are relatives of alligators that lack legs, and instead move using a propeller-like organ at the ends of their tails. They are carnivores, though prefer to consume human flesh, and do this by impaling victims on the long spikes on their backs. The victims will then be stored for later consumption. Snow Snake - Capable of perfectly camouflaging themselves against the icy terrain of North America due to their white coloration, these strange and deadly reptiles have powerful venom that can literally freeze the blood of a human victim. They usually hibernate during the Summer and emerge during the colder months, sometimes drinking water and spitting it back out at their aggressors as ice or harsh snow. Snow Walker - Similar to yetis and trolls, these high-altitude hairy humanoids are found in both Scandinavia and Canada, and were discovered recently when a hiker captured one on video. Very little is known about the species due to the poor quality of the film, though they are suspected to have large feet that act like snowshoes, and enable them to move quickly through the snow. Snow Wasset - Dwelling in the North American forests around the Great Lakes in the Winter before moving to Newfoundland for the Summer, these bizarre creatures have rudimentary legs during the Summer which they can use to crawl around and find a location for hibernation, but in the Winter they lose these limbs to slither swiftly around beneath the snow and ambush prey animals by dragging them beneath snow drifts. Four deadfalls must be used, one in each direction, to trap the fearsome critters. Snowbeast - Often confused with the less common Asian yeti, these white-furred creatures are vicious and muscular predators, capable of breaking the bones of foolhardy travelers with ease. They are covered in thick white fur, which has led to the common misconception that the yeti shares this characteristic. Their bodies are best adapted for living at high altitudes, and so they are often found in caves in Asian mountains. Soay Turtle - First sighted in 1959 off the coast of their namesake Scottish locality, these monstrous creatures resemble bizarre serpents when viewed from the surface, but are really massive relatives of leatherback turtles. They have no teeth inside their mouths, and have a telltale row of spikes running down the backs of their shells. Some accounts say that have long tails as well, which is a fairly unique feature among turtles. Sobek - Usually a vicious and animalistic deity, this ancient Egyptian being is said to be the ruler of the Nile River that flows through Africa, and can appear wherever water from this source is taken. Although he is brutal towards potential prey or attackers, he is mostly known as a protective being, using his ferocious temperament to ward off evil creatures whilst defending the innocent. Because of this dual nature, several cults have sprung up in Egypt dedicated to him. Sōjōbō - Ruling over and controlling tengus in their area, these powerful Japanese shapeshifters have absolute mastery over numerous combat techniques and magical disciplines. They have long white hair, and they usually carry fans made of the feathers of other tengus, which is a symbol of their stature in the society of the mountain-dwelling beings. Sokushinbutsu - Undergoing the tortuous process of self-starvation, dehydration and eventual mummification in the name of their faith, these ancient Buddhist monks believed that they could achieve Nirvana through their suicidal rituals. Nowadays, their corpses are still sometimes found in the underground caves in which they were buried, and are sometimes believed to still be alive as undead creatures. Solar Armor - This 19th century technology was designed to keep the wearer cold when traversing hot North American environments, but soon direly malfunctioned and transformed its users into shambling undead monstrosities that are forced to remain in scalding heat to prevent themselves from freezing over. Despite appearing virtually useless, the creatures have been identified as the causes of a number of otherwise-inexplicable cases of hypothermia. Solaris - Regarded as large fish in medieval European bestiaries, these lengthy serpentine creatures are so named because of their sunbathing behaviour, leading medieval researchers to declare that they prefer to be on land than in the water. They have large heads, wide mouths and black skin that is said to be slippery much like that of an eel. Apparently, their meat is pleasant-tasting, and thus the creatures were sought after due to their nutritional value. Solenoglypha - Incredibly strange creatures, these serpents are responsible for the descriptions of basilisks with several pairs of legs. Although these creatures are related to the eponymous basilisk, they are not the same species, and possess a venomous bite as well as the ability to hypnotize prey by making a whistling sound. They have 6 pairs of birdlike feet, which places them solely in the realm of the supernatural classifications of the animal kingdom. Solnhofen Wyvern - Bearing a superficial resemblance to a true pterosaur, this creature was apparently released from a rocky tomb by German mining in 1299. In this incident, the creature consumed several innocent people and then flew off. There is now believed to be a breeding population of these monsters, though it is unknown how they were given birth to by a single individual. Șolomonar - Usually appearing as tall and beautiful humanoids with red or ginger hair due to a genetic fluke, these Romanian magic users exist in a cult-like society, and are known to kidnap human children to train them as more members of their race. They have the ability to communicate with dragons and thus control the weather around themselves, and usually dwell in a realm parallel to our own, similar to that used by faeries. Solway Spaceman - Speculated by some to either be an alien, ultraterrestrial or maybe the ghost of an astronaut who died in a mechanical incident, this strange entity appeared in a notorious English photograph taken in 1964. In appearance, the creature resembles a humanoid in a spacesuit, but also seems to have a dislocated arm. It is only visible in photographs, and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Sombrerón - Carrying ornate guitars and wearing over-sized hats from which they get their name, these hypnotic faeries are found in Central America and Mexico, and are known to stand outside windows or on street corners to serenade passersby. These songs have mesmerizing properties, and the victims will slowly become ill and will be followed by the musical boogeyman. The only way to cure these victims is through exorcism. Somnia - Ghoulish manifestations of human sleep energy, these Roman monstrosities are sometimes thought to be the equivalents of the Oneiroi, and are said to be related to numerous deities. This classification could mean that they are close to faeries in heritage, though very little information exists about them. Song-Uttering Choir - Constantly singing glorious prayers and songs of worship to the Judaeo-Christian God, these angels are said to reside in the fifth level of Heaven alongside the Ishim. They live in a strict regimental society, and if any of them fail to join the singing on time they will be consumed by holy fire. Their ruler is referred to as Tagas, the angel of music. Sooterkin - Resembling humanoid rodents or other small mammals, these strange medieval European beings are thought to be born from the supernatural contamination of a woman's womb during pregnancy. It is thought that their appearance can be influenced by what the woman dreams of or sees during the pregnancy. Sorath - Gaining its power from the number 666 and other occult symbols, this demon is said to represent the destructive power of the Sun and is sometimes said to be more powerful than Lucifer himself. It is said in some interpretations of Judaeo-Christian theology that this demon will possess large numbers of people during the Apocalypse, transforming them into animal-like monsters that will destroy spiritual symbols. Soucouyant - Resembling a reclusive woman by day, these Caribbean witches will rip off their skin and become a swarm of glowing fireflies by night. They use this form to drain the blood of victims, flying through crevices in the walls of their houses using their small form. However, they can be blackmailed into passivity if a hunter finds the creature's skin before they can return to it. Soucouyant - Resembling reclusive women by day, these Caribbean witches will rip off their skin and become a swarm of glowing fireflies by night. They use this form to drain the blood of victims, flying through crevices in the walls of their houses using their small form. However, they can be blackmailed into passivity if a hunter finds the creature's skin before they can return to it. Soul Eater - Mentioned in the religious beliefs of some African peoples, most notably those in Nigeria, these witches are subject to a horrific biological need to consume the souls of those around them, causing a fatal wasting disease in their victims. This trait is a result of a magical stone stored in their stomach area, and it can be inherited from an individual's parents or from a previously-existing soul eater. Soul eaters can curse other humans so that they become soul eaters themselves. Soul Sucker - Ghostly entities, these psychic parasites exist in areas where there is an abundance of sadness, ruin or despair, such as derelict houses or hospital wards. They will feed off the occupants of these areas, creating severe depressive symptoms and weight gain as they slowly consume their souls. If one of these entities is allowed to complete its feed, the victim will slowly waste away and eventually become a demon or an imp. Southern Arizona Horse-Thing - Described as an enormous creature resembling a bipedal horse lacking a neck, this bizarre North American creature was seen once by a group of witnesses as it crossed their back garden in only three steps of its massive legs. The witnesses were so terrified that they have since refused to go back into the garden, and they contacted a paranormal investigator who came to the conclusion that the entity was likely a Skinwalker or a similar shapeshifter. Space Toad - Seen for the first and only time by a lone witness by the name of Nunez in 1965 Peru, this diminutive ultraterrestrial resembles a toad-like creature covered in hair, and gives off a bright green glow at all times. The alien being supposedly emerged from a UFO that landed on the roof of the victim's house while he was tending to the laundry, and frightened the man to such a degree that he ran into a beam of light projected by the UFO. Luckily, the object flew away after this, taking the alien with it. Sparfeldt's Hybrid - First documented in 1706 during a Swedish court case, these bizarre hairy humanoids are speculated by some researchers to represent hybrids between humans and horses, but behave just like normal members of society. They have thick hair on their legs and long tails like those of horses, but have human forequarters and are seemingly just as intelligent as regular people. Spartoi - Although often said to be living skeletons, these powerful warriors are actually people with supernaturally enhanced battle skills, that are said to have sprung from dragon's teeth sown into the ground during the time of ancient Greek mythology. Because of their warlike nature, they are known to have attracted the attention of the deity Ares, who then enslaved both them and their creator. Spearfinger - Hideous spirits, these creatures are capable of appearing as either a hag with a pointed claw on her left hand, or as a monster made out of rock. They feed on human livers, and will slaughter North American people using their bladed digits to obtain these. Specs - Observed in 1959 by a diver named Bob Wall, this bizarre creature was seen when the aforementioned diver decided to investigate a sea-cave off the coast of the North American state of Florida. It was described as a large arthropod with a cylindrical body and eight hairy limbs (each one meter long), as well as a pointed head and eyes supported by stalks. The anomalous invertebrate began moving towards its human visitor, who fled promptly after. Spectre - Malicious ghosts, these beings will appear when someone disturbs their grave, and will then feed on grudges and anger among humans. They are able to possess people who have similar grudges to themselves, and force them to act on these in violent ways. In their true form, they appear as rotting versions of their past self. Spectre - Similar if not identical to ghosts, these incorporeal undead beings get their name from a French word that has since become widely used in the English language to describe any disembodied spirit of a deceased human. They are usually seen as bedraggled and haggard versions of their living selves, often transparent and capable of moving through solid objects. Some reports describe them as carrying heavy chains, with which they make ghastly rattling noises, striking fear in those nearby. Sphinx - More common than their Greek kin, these Egyptian hybrids are well-known for their vaguely humanoid faces and large wings. Their feeding behavior, however, is exaggerated in comparison to androsphinxes and gynosphinxes, with them feeding on the human mental energy that goes into their victims thinking about the riddles that the monsters pose. This habit can lead to the humans going into a coma, and it is from this that the myth that sphinxes eat those who can't solve riddles comes. Spider-Scorpion - Roughly 5cm long, this anomalous insect was witnessed for the first and only time by a family in Canada's Ontario towards the end of the 20th century, and was described as a white arachnid most closely resembling a scorpion, but also descending from a web much like that of a spider. This hybrid arthropod has not been seen since, suggesting that it may have either been a freak genetic aberration or a case of mistaken identity on behalf of the witnesses. Spirit - Nearly irreconcilable with conventional views on magic, these hybrid faeries are thought to have once been the souls of humans that were altered beyond recognition by a powerful being such as Oberon. They are known to be mischievous and playful, though are just as capable of being malicious and deadly. In ancient times, they were often summoned by sorcery, though now it is more common for them to be inadvertently conjured using misuse of a Ouija board. Splintercat - Peculiar North American felines, these armored creatures lurk in deep forests, and will smash their powerful heads into the trunks of trees in order to break the wood. This results in prey items such as raccoons and bees to become exposed to the cat's grasp. They have a notoriously foul temperament, and potential explorers are advised against approaching them. Splitter - Usually resembling harmless coins, these bizarre Chinese mimics will jump high into the air when they are approached by humans, and will split into twelve duplicate pieces by the time they hit the ground. Each of the pieces is said to have a head of some description, each of which are capable of inflicting a deadly poisonous bite on would-be treasure hunters. If they are excluded from human contact, they will eventually reassemble themselves back to their original numbers. Spook - Originally Dutch in origin, these restless ghosts return from the grave to haunt specific locations such as cemeteries and dilapidated buildings, and are nowadays mostly represented as humanoids dressed in long white sheets much like those used to cover beds. This is because Medieval painters used to depict ghosts as wearing burial shrouds to distinguish them from the living in their art, thus accidentally creating the notion that ghosts wear sheets. Spottsville Monster - Demonic mockeries of natural hairy humanoids, these hirsute apparitions appear as 8ft-tall monsters covered in dark hair, with dagger-like claws, glowing red eyes and sometimes even blue fire projecting from their throats, and were first recorded in 1935 when one of them manifested inside a house in their namesake North American locale. Since then, they have been responsible for livestock mutilations and laying seige to a family in 1975. The most recent report was in 2010. Spriggan - As cruel as they are cunning, these trickster faeries are found in the forests and hills of Cornwall, where they often act as guards to buried treasure and mines filled with riches. They enjoy working mischief against those who attempt to steal their treasure, such as creating sudden hurricanes and stealing cattle in the middle of the night. Like many other faeries, they can be repelled using iron, and can be greatly confused if their potential victim puts their clothes on inside out. Spring-Heeled Jack - This demonic phantom attacker was first reported in Victorian England during 1837, and was described as having iron claws at the ends of his fingers, and being able to breathe fire. He gets his name from the amazing distances that he is able to leap with a single bound, enabling him to evade capture completely. He is said to dress with the clothing and mannerisms of a classic gentleman at the time, and sometimes to be able to speak comprehensible English. Sprite - Responsible for the genesis of most of the Victorian lore surrounding faeries, these tiny humanoids have wings that resemble those of insects, and wear clothing made out of stolen objects. They are playful and mischievous in their personalities, and tend to live in small groups in European and British forests. Like other faeries, they generate circular structures out of the nearest terrain when they teleport or use their magic. Squallie - Thought to be related to the Melonheads, these diminutive humanoids resemble children with the snouts of pigs and live in the Golden Gate Estates area of North America's Florida Everglades, and are said to be the spawn of a failed government experiment. They live in a building called the Naithlorendum Sanctuary, to which they drag human victims to feed on their flesh. This building is also protected by an insane man with a shotgun, who will kill any trespassers on sight. Squarefoot - Found mostly in the Isle of Man, these shapeshifting giants resemble bipedal boars or pigs, and have great strength whilst in their true forms. They are generally peaceful, though will retaliate by throwing stones if attacked. Squasc - Frightening children and chasing young girls, these intimidating Italian faeries resemble tailless squirrels with humanoid faces, and are used as bogeymen within isolated communities. They are sometimes deliberately invoked to scare disobedient children into submission, though they are known to love playing harmless pranks and tricks anyway. Squatinus - Monstrous versions of the more common angel sharks, these 7ft long fish are mentioned in medieval European bestiaries, and are known to hide in the muddy ground of shallow areas in the sea, apparently frightening away all other fish from their vicinity. Their skin is covered with short black hair, and they have armour so sharp that people used to use it to shave wood and cut through bone. This armour is strong enough to protect the fish from being hurt by most conventional weaponry. Squidgicum-Squee - Extremely timid and skittish, these nebulous critters are known from North American lumberjack folklore in which they are said to literally swallow themselves whole as soon as they hear another animal approaching, meaning that they have never been seen. This behaviour seems evolutionarily pointless. There is another being known as the Wunk, which also demonstrates the hiding behaviour of immediately removing itself from the environment, but is not known if they are related. Squonk - With wrinkled and poorly-fitting skin, these creatures are found in the forests of Northern Pennsylvania, and spend much of their time weeping uncontrollably because of shame over their appearance. They are skilled at evading capture, or even being seen by humans, because of their ability to dissolve into a pool of tears and bubbles. Squonk tears are prized in black magic trading rings, because of their metamorphic properties. Sraosha - Propagating conscience and the beauty of nature, this powerful angel bestows knowledge of Zoroastrian religious rituals and provides advice and protection for those who are young or vulnerable. He is similar to the Archangel Michael, and is known to fight against Aeshma and Aži Dahāka. When Zoroastrian prophets die, Sraosha accompanies their soul through to the Afterlife. During the Apocalypse event as described in Zoroastrian texts, Sraosha will distribute wisdom among the human race. Srayuda - Found in the Central Javan region of Jepara, these Nāga-like creatures are associated with floods and other water-based natural disasters, and are usually described as large serpents with human faces and either black, red or green scales. Signs of the arrival of a Srayuda include local people hearing 'strange voices' and the total silence of nearby amphibians. When the floods that the creatures foretell finally appear, some witnesses have said that the Srayuda move along in front. Sriz - Dwelling at the tops of mountains and tall buildings across Poland, these ominous creatures are similar to banshees and other ghostly omens of death, calling out the names of local residents to foretell their oncoming deaths. Not much else is known about them, such as what (if any) gain they get from this morbid duty. St. Leonard's Dragon - Red and white in color, this serpentine dragon is said to have haunted its namesake Horsham forest in 1614. As it slithered through the forest, it left behind a trail of poisonous slime that contaminated the very air around it, and was capable of killing cattle that breathed it in. It seemed to have two large fins on its back, which some speculated may have grown into wings if the creature had not been slain by a local hunter. Stallo - Hairy creatures, these man-eating giants come from Finland and the surrounding areas, where they patrol forests and will capture humans who stray into their territory. Despite this, they are stupid and easily tricked, and are thus often outwitted by humans. There are several otherwise unexplainable stone structures dotted around Finland, which have come to be attributed to constructions of the stallo. Stallo - Horned creatures, these man-eating giants come from Finland and the surrounding areas, where they patrol forests and will capture humans who stray into their territory. Despite this, they are stupid and easily tricked, and are thus often outwitted by humans. There are several otherwise unexplainable stone structures dotted around Finland, which have come to be attributed to constructions of the stallo. Star Creature - Regarded as the living incarnations of the stars in the night sky in Cherokee mythology, these North American atmospheric beasts dwell high up in the stratosphere, and have bodies covered in downy feathers that emit bursts of sparks or electricity when the wind moves through them. They have small retractable heads that resemble those of turtles or terrapins. Little is known about them because they are rarely captured, and even then they often escape. Star Vampire - Usually completely invisible, these extraterrestrial aberrations use their enormous clawed tentacles to crush their victims to death before draining their bodies of blood, becoming visible in a bright red colour due to the absorption of the blood. They were first mentioned in the literature of HP Lovecraft, and can be summoned to our world using an invocation found in the 'De Vermis Mysteriis' grimoire, but this is advised against as they often first feed on their summoners. Starchild - First discovered through skeletal remains unearthed in 1930 Mexico, these strange beings represent hybrids of human women and male grey aliens. They are incredibly intelligent and are likely to have some genetic knowledge of greys and space travel, as well as possessing telepathic abilities. There is some speculation that they may actually just represent genetically-mutated humans. Static Person - Usually appearing very suddenly and then vanishing just as quickly, these bizarre beings are thought to be variants of shadow people that manifest in conjunction with technology and television screens. Unlike genuine static on TV screens, they do not make any noise and have never been directly observed to emerge from such screens. Some have theorized that they may be ghostly manifestations of the souls and emotions of deceased individuals whose images are still being broadcast. Stcemqestcint - Usually resembling putrid-smelling humanoids wearing buffalo skins, these strange giants are found in the North American state of Idaho, and are known to immediately assume the forms of tall trees when they are seen by humans, therefore having a perfect degree of camouflage. They will normally turn back into humanoids as soon as they are unobserved, but if a human stares at them in their tree forms for long enough they will be unable to reassume monstrous form. Stella - Much like its namesake celestial object, these French sea stars are so hot that they burn and liquefy any object that they come into contact with. They intentionally touch fish and other small prey animals in order to kill them, but are also known to burn humans when they wash up on beaches. Stewa Rutu - Closely related to the Butatsch Cun Ilgs, these monstrous aberrations are mentioned in the Bhutanese folklore of South Asia, and stomachs or fleshy sacks covered with large tentacles. According to local folklore, a ruler of the region decided to test the strength of one of the beasts by placing an elephant in the water. The elephant managed to make it out of the water after a titanic struggle, and the Stewa Rutu was killed when hot sand was poured onto it by villagers. Stheno - The most independent and ferocious of the gorgon races, these large creatures have tentacles in place of hair and brass claws where their fingers should be. They are by far the largest species of gorgon, and are known to use their bulky bodies and wide tails to crush opponents to death. Like all gorgons, their gaze has a deadly petrifying effect on all those caught in it. Stick Indian - Spoken of in Northwest America, these hairy and malevolent forest faeries are capable of paralyzing and hypnotizing human victims that wander into the woodlands at night. Their very name is an English euphemism, as it is thought that saying their actual name will invoke violent revenge from the creatures, which have been known to kidnap human children and women. Stihi - Vaguely feminine in form, these demonic Albanian dragons usually appear as reptilian creatures bathed in unholy flame, and are known to guard great hoards of treasure and riches. Very little else is known about them because of their extreme rarity, which is thought to be due to extermination by knights or hunters. Stingy Jack - Cursed to forever wander the Earth after attempting to repeatedly outwit the Judaeo-Christian Satan, this undead Irish being was originally a drunkard and manipulator by the name of Jack, who managed to trap the Devil and then make a deal to keep himself out of Hell. However, when he died, he was not able to enter Heaven either and so remained trapped between life and death, carrying a hollowed-out turnip lantern as a warning to all those who might try the same thing that he did. Stiyaha - Nocturnal hairy humanoids, these ghoulish creatures resemble primates or baboons, but are thought to be closer to werewolves or rougarous in evolutionary terms. They are greatly feared in Native American mythology, and it is considered taboo to speak their name, lest they hear it and carry off the speaker. Stock - Enchanted wooden effigies, these beings are often left in the places of human adults who are kidnapped by faeries. They will resemble their human counterparts at first, though will gradually become weak and sick. Finally they will become bedridden, and then decompose back into their wooden forms much to the horror of everyone around them. Stökkull - This Icelandic whale has flaps of skin that grow over its eyes, and so must leap out of the water in order to see beneath them. Whilst doing this, it also enjoys deliberately swamping nearby ships under its massive weight. However, it is easily distracted and thus can be prevented from sinking a ship by throwing a barrel into the water. Stolas - Teaching knowledge of astronomy and precious stones to those magic users that summon him, this strange demon resembles a long-legged owl with a crown on its head. He seems to have some degree of control over poisons and poisonous plants in his vicinity, as well as constructing medicine and toxins from herbs. Stone Demon - Created by a human hand, these stone statues will become inhabited by a spirit that will then animate their bodies. Their only drive is to collect precious metals and trinkets, often to adorn their own bodies, and will kill to defend their hoards. Despite this, they are also sometimes commanded into attack by dark magic users. Stone Tape - Usually almost identical to other ghosts in their appearance and behavior, these strange spirits are often confused with death echoes because of their repeating actions and unresponsiveness. In reality, death echoes only represent recordings of violent deaths, but stone tapes are formed when old buildings and objects absorb emotional energy from times of turmoil or unhappiness. When certain conditions are met, this energy can be replayed as a ghostly video. Stone Throwing Devil - Known all around North America in various, curiously unique legends, these bizarre phantom attackers are said to resemble dark imps, and to behave in a manner much like poltergeists, throwing large rocks at their victims or their houses. There are stories from Portsmouth, Massachusetts, Illinois and even Salisbury, most of which detail the same entities, connecting them with demons and witchcraft. The projectiles that they throw are sometimes hot to the touch. Stonecoat - Related to ogres and wendigos, these North American hairy humanoids are well-known from the cultures of cold regions across their home country. They use large pieces of rocks and boulders as makeshift armor, which has given rise to mythology that claims the creatures have stone skins. It is sometimes alleged that these creatures are cursed humans who resorted to cannibalism during a harsh Winter. Storm Hag - Infamously haunting the shores of Lake Erie in North America, these monstrous creatures are known to emerge from the very bottom of the lake after storms, and feast on the remains of the drowned sailors. They have venomous claws and catlike eyes, and are said to sing an enticing siren's song just before an attack. Stray Sod - These weird little faeries are able to wreak total disorientation on any traveler that steps on their grass-like backs, who will then wander for hours, unable to find their way around even their own garden. Of course this effect gradually wears off, though it can be instantly cured (and the creatures repelled) by turning one's clothes inside out. Streghoi - Thought to be heavily mutated dark magic users, these savage Romanian vampires are capable of shapeshifting into large birds to increase the speed of their movement. They usually target children and newborn babies, and a ritualistic prayer involving throwing stones over the shoulders of all those present is often performed at birth ceremonies to keep the bloodsuckers at bay. Strigoi - Born from the dead bodies of humans who committed acts such as murder in life, these animalistic vampires will rise again and then gravitate towards their families. They will slowly drain the life force out of the people that they used to love, feeding on their souls and blood. The only way to kill one of these Romanian monsters is by decapitating it and then burning the body. Štrigun - Some of the oldest vampires recorded, these ancient undead beings are mostly found in isolated areas across Croatia, and are known to obsessively continue the activities that they would carry out when they were alive. This often leads to the monstrous vampires assaulting those that were previously their spouses, for example. They can only be killed by decapitation. Strix - Although most known from Ancient Rome, these vampiric creatures still sometimes claim victims today. They resemble hybrids of humans and owls, and have glowing yellow eyes. People who resort to cannibalism in the territory of these creatures will end up becoming one of them themselves. Stronsay Beast - Classified in the same group of bizarre sauropod-like dragons that includes the peluda and the mokèlé-mbèmbé, these Scottish creatures were first discovered after the carcass of one of them washed up on a beach in 1808. They are covered in thick bristles, which can glow due to symbiosis with a bioluminescent fungus. Most individuals of the species are over 55ft long. Strzyga - Initially born as simple genetic variants of regular humans with two sets of teeth and two souls, these Slavic vampires are usually chased away from their village and die of exposure at a very young age. However, only one of their two souls ascends to the Afterlife, and the other remains to reanimate the body as a wrathful undead being. The only way to prevent this from happening is to decapitate the corpse and bury it separated from its head. Stuhać - Covering themselves in the organs and dismembered corpses of their victims, these indescribable Serbian demons are most known for the human ligaments that they attach to their legs to help them traverse steep mountainous territory. They dwell in secluded mountains and barren areas, and will kill and mutilate travelers to add to their grotesque armor. Stymphalian Bird - These birds are part cybernetic, and have bronze feathers on their wings which they can launch at prey at incredible speeds. They can hunt and kill prey up to the size of a human, and are found in Greece. They are also capable of producing a potent chemical weapon in the form of dung. Su Iyesi - Lurking around floating masses of debris and rotten logs in Turkish rivers and lakes, these incorporeal spirits usually appear as beautiful merfolk-like creatures, and are known to break dams and drown people and animals when angered. They are responsible for shipwrecks and tsunamis, as well as otherwise-unexplained riverside disappearances. Suangi - Heavily mutated dark magic users, these vampire-like humanoids are found in the forests and abandoned villages of New Guinea, where they capture human victims in order to consume their souls and blood. Once the innards of the victim are entirely gone, the body will be stuffed with grass and the undead victim will return home, only to fall ill and die shortly after. If the suangi can be named by the victim before they die, they will often be hunted down and killed in revenge. Succarath - Bizarre South American primates, these relatives of lemurs are known for their carnivorous diet and their ability to protect their young underneath their curling, feathered tails. They are generalized carnivores, feeding on small animals and carrion as they find it. However, they are greatly feared by the local human populations because of their strange resemblance to the deadly manticores. Succubus - These demons will appear to sleeping male victims and seduce them into having sexual intercourse by shapeshifting into a desirable form. They do this to feed on the energy spent by the human, and will gradually damage and drain the soul of the victim. Prolonged contact with these creatures can lead to the man going mad or even dying. Suchos - Similar to the Egyptian deity Sobek, these creatures were first spoken of when the ancient Romans discovered the society of Egypt. Although they are thought to be the same being as the Nile crocodile god in some sources, they are actually a race of shapeshifting reptilian creatures who worship the aforementioned deity. Sudak Squamate - First appearing to a victim named Georgiy in their namesake Ukrainian area during an alien abduction incident in 1995, these tall reptilian humanoids took Georgiy aboard their UFO after sneaking up behind him and knocking him out using a rubbery mask. During the abduction, Georgiy was terrified, but the ultraterrestrials seemed not to be hostile. They allowed him to ask them one question before they made good on their agreement to deposit him back on Earth. Sugaar - Spoken of in Basque mythology, this vaguely humanoid demon resembles a serpent or a dragon in its true form, and is said to be responsible for the creation of lightning and storms. It can shapeshift to become an attractive human male, and often uses this to seduce females and produce offspring that could potentially become kings or rulers. In some regions, it behaves akin to a boogeyman. Sugar Bundle - Encountered in 1915 by two terrified witnesses in a Cuban sugarcane field, these alien aberrations resemble off-white oozes, and are capable of growing to immense size to frighten off potential aggressors. They are thought to be related to atmospheric beasts or ultraterrestrials, and are sometimes mistaken for plastic bags blowing in the wind due to their impassive behaviour if not directly confronted. It seems that the creatures will vanish before they harm any Earthly animal. Suiko - Often confused with the kappas that they so closely resemble, these aquatic predators are found in shallow rivers all throughout Asia. They use their incredible physical strength and armored bodies to drag human victims below the surface of the water, and feed on their souls and blood. The only way to repel one of these creatures is to sprinkle flax seeds around the door of one's house. Suileach - Disgusting dragon-like aberrations mentioned in Irish folklore, these monstrous creatures live in loughs and rivers across Ireland, and are known to cause considerable problems for humans in the villages around their habitats. The first and most famous individual of this species was apparently slain by a legendary saint. They are widely known for the staring eyes that cover their massive bodies, suggesting a relation to the Butatsch Cun Ilgs. Sumizome - Presiding over cherry blossom trees and the orchards in which they grow, these rare and specialized Japanese nymphs are capable of mimicking the appearance of humans. They use this ability to replace dead humans and gain the trust of communities, seeing as they seem to desire acceptance and human company above all else. However, when they are discovered for what they, they are usually persecuted. Sun Wukong - Featured in a large portion of Asian literature, this powerful deity is said to have originally been born from a rock or a stone, and then achieved the immense power he has today through Taoist practices. He is capable of immediately teleporting halfway around the world, as well as easily fighting beings such as angels or even the Judaeo-Christian God himself. It is unknown how he manages to do this. Sunakake-Baba - Mischievous Japanese sand elementals, these haggish creatures manifest in deserts and dry areas, and enjoy causing minor annoyance for travelers by throwing sand in their faces. They are extremely rarely ever witnessed, and prefer to remain invisible because they are repulsed by their own hideous appearance. As a result, very little is known about their true nature. Sundel Bolong - Manifesting as beautiful women with long hair and white dresses, these Indonesian ghosts are thought to be closely associated with prostitutes, seeing as their name literally translates to mean 'prostitute with a hole in her', in reference to the gaping holes that appear in their backs. They are thought to be formed from the souls of those who died during pregnancy outside of marriage, and are known to make sexual advances on men. If the men refuse, they will be castrated. Suppon-No-Yūrei - Thought to either be the ghosts of deceased turtles or shapeshifters that are turtle-like in appearance, these Japanese beings usually resemble humans at first glance, but will then stretch to inhuman size in an attempt to frighten their victims. In this form, they appear as humanoids with scaly skin and the faces of turtles, and will target those who eat too much turtle meat or pointlessly kill the aquatic reptiles. Suq’a - Undead monstrosities that are often found in the acrid swamps of South America, these creatures have no interest in atoning for their sins or communicating with humans. They are constantly focused on hunting and killing travelers, and are mostly known to do this under the cover of night. Şüräle - Resembling hairy humanoids with a single horn in the middles of their foreheads, these odd faeries are found in the forests and thickets of Russia and Turkey. They are capable of shapeshifting and making human victims ill, and usually tickle their prey to death. If a human crosses the monster's path, they will become lost and disorientated. Surma - Appearing as large and vicious hellhounds with the tails of serpents, these horrid Finnish creatures guard the gates of the Underworld, and embody sudden and violent deaths. They are capable of turning their victims to stone in a manner akin to that used by gorgons, and usually serve to prevent escape from the Afterlife by desperate souls. Surtr - Wielding a flaming sword and leading forth armies of various demons and fire giants in the Ragnarök event predicted through numerous ancient texts, this monstrous titan will apparently do battle with the Norse pantheon. It is alleged to have played a part in the burning of Troy, though it is unknown how accurate this is. If the being is allowed to carry out its plans, the world will be consumed in fire. Sut - The fifth and final race spawned by Iblis, these seductive shapeshifting djinn are responsible for generating discord and anger between innocent human couples. They are similar in function to the dasim, though are the male equivalent, similar to how incubi are the male variation of succubi. Suzaku - These ethereal bioluminescent birds are found in South of the world, and seem to emit a pheromone that allows them to have limited control over other birds. Due to their affinity with heat, there is speculation that they are related to the phoenix. Suzuri No Tamashii - Originally just supplies of ink, these Japanese tsukumogami start to absorb soul energy from their environment if they are used to constantly produce the same stories or characters. This happens much faster if the stories are the tales of genocides and wars, as the ghosts of the victims start to haunt the ink. Characters and events from the literature will be manifested by the ink's spirit. Sváfnir - Gnawing on the twigs and branches of the ancient Norse Yggdrasil, these sluggish dragons' name literally translates as 'the one who puts to sleep'. The vapor that they produce when they breathe fire is known to have anesthetic properties, and to cause drowsiness or even comas in those that inhale it. Svartálfar - Referred to as 'black elves' or 'swarthy elves', these subterranean faeries are almost certainly closely related to common Norse dwarves, and are thought to be excellent blacksmiths, having been employed to craft Lady Sif replacement golden hair after Loki sheared it off for a practical joke. They are found in a mysterious realm known as Svartalfheim, which is sometimes said to be the same thing as Niðavellir because very little evidence exists for it being a distinct realm. Svartálfar - Said to be related to elves, these beings are spoken of in Norse mythology as having flesh 'as black as dusk', and living in underground civilizations. They are supposed to be fine craftsmen, and are often used by gods to craft magical weapons for use in battle. Nowadays, they are known as dark elves, though this name gives them an unfairly evil reputation. Svinfylking - Morphing into the form of a monstrous boar or pig, this rare class of ancient Viking warrior was often used to break up enemy ranks with their extreme speed and frightening strength. In local folklore, they are said to have been created by the pagan god Odin, though it is unknown if this is true. It seems that the men's transformation into their monstrous form only lasts a set amount of time, and then they will revert back into humans and suffer symptoms of extreme fatigue. Swamfisk - Repulsive creatures that are related to common stonefish, these Norwegian fish secrete a layer of putrid slime and drift along riverbeds, looking and smelling as if they were dead. Thinking that they are an easy meal, smaller fish swim down to feed on the creatures, which then swallow them whole. Swamp Monster - Composed of rotting plant matter and dead flesh, these elemental beings form in hot or humid areas. They are incredibly strong and violent, and their odor can cause nausea. Due to being made of plant matter, the beasts can be killed using fire or grenades. Swamp Swogon - Gibbering and screeching from the depths of secluded swamps at nighttime, these hideous spirits are thought to either represent the ghosts of lost boatmen, or banshee-like creatures that make loud and disquieting noises as if in mourning for the loss of human life. They are exclusively found in the marshlands of North America's Maine, and thus information is difficult to find. In the main source from which information is drawn, they are said to 'blitter and glabber'. Swamp Troll - These ugly creatures are found in the waters of temperate regions such as Central Europe or Scandinavia, and feed on animals that wander too deep into their murky territory. Because of the petrifying effect that prolonged exposure to sunlight has on their skin, they will often submerge themselves beneath layers of algae or man-made bridges. Swan Maiden - Similar to the tengu of Japan, these Russian shapeshifters are usually seen in a swan-like form, but will revert back into human shape if their cloaks are stolen. There are folktales of young men stealing these cloaks from the creatures, and eventually becoming their husbands. However, when the maiden gets the cloak back, she becomes a swan again and disappears forever, leaving her family behind. Swift Peter - Rather small despite their extreme speed and ferocity, these Mothman-like critters are normally found in the North American state of Mississippi, in which they are known to attack and carry off dogs and various livestock animals overnight, making enormous amounts of noise while doing so. A curious local legend describes the creature as being part codfish, part weasel and being able to fly. The last sighting of this bizarre being was in 2013, and it left behind seven-toed tracks. Sylph - Glimmering and glowing faeries, these incredibly fast moving creatures were first referred to as air elementals in the literature of 16th century alchemy. They are known to form enormous clouds using their airy wings, and to represent their thoughts using symbols made in these clouds. Their voices have the ability to alter those around their perception of time. Syrbotae - Standing roughly 4 meters tall, these Medieval African giants tower over their counterparts, and are known to live in advanced tribal societies across the savannas of their home country. Oddly, they consume the milk of baboons and other primates for sustenance, though it is not known if this is all that they can eat. Syren - Slithering along the sandy ground of the Middle East at legendarily quick speeds and flying even faster, these winged serpents are mentioned in medieval bestiaries, and are completely distinct from any other creatures that may share their name. The bites of these creatures are so poisonous that the people who are bitten will die within seconds, often before their body even hits the ground. Syrictæ - Found in the deserts and jungles of India according to Medieval bestiaries, these strange humanoids have snakelike faces and scales running down their arms and legs. Despite their savage appearance and carnivorous diet, they are a civilized race, and are known to construct cities and towns for their people to live in. Szarlej - Mentioned in Polish culture, these terrifying Slavic demons are usually found deep within mines and caves, where they provide an ever-present terror for miners that get lost. They will cause deadly tunnel collapses and flood mine-shafts, purely with the goal of causing as much loss of life as possible. Ta Prohm Dinosaur - Bizarre supernatural creatures thought to be associated with the worship of demigods, these Asian creatures resemble hybrids of triceratops and stegosaurus dinosaurs, and are depicted on the wall carvings of certain temples in Cambodia. They are incredibly rare, leading some to believe that the carvings simply represent misidentified rhinoceroses. Tachwüll - Regarded as almost pre-human, these dwarfish South American faeries are said to have been found in Patagonia and Argentina in ancient times, where they are known to have constructed stone ball-like weapons called bolas, to be spun around above the heads of hunters and flung at the legs of prey animals. Although the human ancestors of the current inhabitants of Patagonia are actually responsible for the creation of the bolas, they have been forgotten and replaced by the faeries. Tag Vandren - These nocturnal creatures are known to originate from Scandinavian countries, and seem to have an inability to touch the ground. As a result, they will jump from one high surface to the next, be this a skyscraper, or even a simple rock of windowsill. Tagua Tagua Lagoon Monster - Terrorising a small area in Chile in 1784, this indescribably horrifying creature resembles a wyvern or dragon with two tails, long horns and a face resembling that of a human, leading some to suggest that it is a relative of the Piasa. Its upper tail was used to snare prey, and it had a mane around its face. It was known to have ransacked local farms and dragged livestock into its namesake body of water, before it was hunted down and killed by a group of 100 men. Tahamaling - Protecting wounded animals in the forests and rural villages of the Philippines, these frightening nymphs resemble humanoid females with reddish, wooden skin and glowing yellow eyes. They are mostly nocturnal and inhabit trees during the day, meaning that very few humans witness them. Those that have say that they wear nothing but bracelets made of bones. Tah-Tah-Kle’-Ah - Hunting human children by mimicking the voices of their friends and loved ones, these nightmarish North American shapeshifters resemble hybrids of human women and grotesque owls. They dwell in caves where they sleep during the day, and fly out at night to snatch away unwary children, acting in a boogeyman-like manner. Taifeng - Sometimes regarded as local deities, these tiger-like humanoids are found in mountainous forests across China, usually in the vicinity of large hoards of emeralds and other precious stones. They are not known to be hostile towards humans, and their name literally translates as 'peaceful encounter'. Despite this, they are sometimes responsible for the generation of rainstorms and other unpleasant weather. Tailypo - Said to have originally been the ghost of an individual of an endangered North American mammal species that was senselessly killed by a passing hunter, this demon now stalks the area in which it was killed. It constantly asks for its 'tailypo', which represents the tail that was cut from its corpse to make soup. If a potential victim cannot supply the creature with its original tail, they will be clawed to death or driven insane. Taka Nyūdō - Terrifying shapeshifters encountered in Japanese alleyways and isolated footpaths, these horrific beings originally appear as unassuming priests, but will then rapidly grow in size at the same speed as their shocked human victims look up at them. The best way to prevent them from doing this is to not react and refuse to look up at them, therefore disabling their abilities and prompting the giant to leave in frustration, seeing as it is less violent than its mikoshi nyūdō relatives. Taka Onna - Frequenting red light districts, these slender Japanese shapeshifters usually resemble regular human women, but have the ability to grow to several meters in height. They are formed from the wrathful ghosts of women who were unable to marry or experience physical pleasure in their lifetimes, and so they now feed on the pleasure of others by harassing those in romantic liasons. Paradoxically, they have also sometimes been known to marry humans but then later kill their families. Taki Reiō - Mysterious apparitions found in the basins of holy waterfalls across East Asia, these possibly-elemental beings are usually known to take on the forms of deities such as Fudō Myōō, and their images are so powerful that all spirits, demons and monsters must bow down before them. Waterfalls across Japan are associated with this god, and there are Buddhist sects devoted to his worship which immerse themselves in freezing waterfalls as religious rituals. Takitaro - Resembling enormous salmon, these powerful fish are found in the crystal-clear mountainous lakes of Japan, and are considered to bring storms and bad weather wherever they go in the local folklore. Modern sightings recount the creatures swimming straight through strong fishing nets and sometimes even dragging unwary fishermen below the surface of the water. Tako Nyūdō - Thought to be closely related to the cecaelia, these octopus-like merfolk are known from Japanese mythology, and are named after their slight resemblance to bald priests. They are usually mischievous and annoying to those around them, stealing and withholding fish from hungry animals or humans. However, they have also been known to snatch fishermen from their boats and drown them in the water below. Talasûm - Protecting and inhabiting large public buildings such as castles, churches or even drinking fountains in Bulgaria, these formless shapeshifting faeries are thought to either be formed from the ghosts of sacrificed humans or from people whose souls became accidentally incorporated into the structures, causing them to die in 40 days. They are sometimes used by magic users to guard buried treasure, and are known to manifest as either bearded humanoids or various animals at night. Tall Man - Displaying textbook evolutionary adaptations for a low gravity environment, these alien beings are thought to be the closest representation of the direct future of humankind, showing a transitional phase between regular people and Nordics. They are nearly twice the height of modern day humans, and are rarely recorded because their technology does not facilitate as much travel as some of their relatives. Alternate theories suggest that they are ultraterrestrials. Talos - Forged by the ancient Greeks to protect the shores of Crete from potential threats such as pirates or invaders, this massive construct resembles a human warrior fashioned completely out of bronze. However, it has a single weak point on its ankle, which is usually protected by a nail, though the being can be killed if it is removed. Tamanous - Leaving distinctive footprints made from thick, black tar, these Native American creatures target those who have committed cannibalism-related crimes, and attempt to goad other potential victims into doing the same. Because of this, their behavior is regarded as being similar to the wendigo, though it is not known if the two are related. It is said that their victims will eventually come back to life as more of these creatures. Tammatuyuq - Known from the campfire stories of Native American tribes, these hideous shapeshifting ogres feed on the blood of human children, and will often assume the forms of friends in order to be granted access to the children's houses. They use a sharp piece of wood or a straw to break into the skulls of their victims and drain the blood. Tan Dragon - First reported from the skies above North America in 2007, these massive creatures get their strange name from their brown and white coloration, and are usually seen at dusk due to their nocturnal hunting habits. Despite assertions that they might be related to pterosaurs, it seems that they are closer to arthropods in body structure, as is made evident by their long and segmented tails. Tanagran Triton - Seemingly having the upper bodies of humanoids and the tails of merfolk with clawed legs, these odd aquatic primates are found in the waters around Greece, and have often been preserved as features in freak shows. They have long grey-green hair and thin fur on their bodies that is commonly mistaken for scales, and large red eyes that give them a striking appearance. Tanar'ri - Originally created by entities like Dagon and Pazuzu to act as slaves, these extremely diverse demons eventually broke free from their masters and spread out across all sections of Hell, becoming the most common class of being to be encountered in these locations. They are thought to have gained power over time due to human sin, and are heavily implicated in various religions and myths all across the world, feeding off the worst aspects of humanity. Tangie - Haunting the waters surrounding the Orkney Islands and the Shetland Islands, these British shapeshifters are thought to be closely related to kelpies and other animalistic faeries, and usually either take on the forms of horses or elderly humanoids covered in thick green seaweed belonging to the genus Fucus. They terrorise isolated travelers at night, specifically young women on roads near lochs, whom they will abduct and devour underwater. Some dark magic users use them as steeds. Tanin'iver - Known to be the eventual steed for the demon Lilith, this monstrous entity appears similar to a large dragon or serpent, and is unable to properly see despite its powerful psychic abilities. It is said to be the catalyst for the unison of Lilith and Samael, which will cause pestilence and plague to appear all over the world, according to Jewish teachings. Taniwha - These dangerous beings are found in deep lakes and pools throughout New Zealand, and will act as ferocious protectors of these areas. However, they have also been known to kidnap and eat human virgins, a target demographic that they share with unicorns and dragons. Tanterabogus - Sent up from Hell to capture the souls of young people who have committed serious sins or made deals with demons, these hideous demonic bogeymen are mentioned in English folklore. They usually wear long, draping garments that resemble animal skins, and will drag their victims back down into the depths of Hell itself. Tanuki - Possessing powerful magical abilities, these raccoon-like shapeshifters are known to exist in the forests and mountains of Japan, and to delight in playing tricks on passing humans. They are not generally feared in local culture, though shouldn't be considered entirely benevolent either because of their tricky natures. Taotao Mo'Na - Thought to have originally been a population of humans who inhabited the islands of Oceania in ancient times, these curious ghosts now dwell inside trees and among foliage, behaving akin to faeries or nymphs. They are capable of both helping local magic users, and wreaking destructive mischief upon human populations. Strangely, they have an irrational disliking of pregnant women, and pregnant members of the local culture wear special perfume to keep the beings at bay. Taotie - These monsters come from tunnels beneath mountains in North China, and rise every 80 years to feed viciously off humans in massive groups. They are able to make calls that are similar to a crying human infant, and can be killed if the eyes on the sides of their bodies are damaged. Tapire-Iauara - This hoofed scavenger enjoys a wide, but sparse, distribution in the Amazon River area. It has a glossy coat of fur, often red-gold or sometimes black. They will feed on fish or capybaras, as well as occasionally humans that stray into their territory. They have long ears, and oily fur that repels water like other aquatic mammals, and are thought to be related to the prehistoric mesonychids. Taqriaqsuit - Existing in a realm parallel to our own, these Inuit beings seem to be skittish and nervous around humans, and will immediately disappear into the ground if they are seen or sensed by humans. Their dimension is just beyond our perception, but they can still be heard in the right conditions, such as when someone hears footsteps or laughter in an empty room. Tarasque - Representing a population of relict glyptodonts, these creatures are found in small numbers on the outskirts of France. They are mostly solitary animals, and were decimated in the Middle Ages when they were hunted under the assumption that they were dragons. Taraxippus - Haunting stables and hippodromes, these ancient Greek ghosts are well-known for spooking horses and causing them to behave erratically and kill or wound their riders. They are responsible for numerous inexplicable accidents in horse-racing settings, and those who die in these incidents are fed off by the spirits. Tartalo - One-eyed giants, these Basque monsters will capture young children in order to eat them, and often keep herds of sheep and other livestock. They will assume human form and offer the children an 'accuser ring' before eating them, which serves as a tracker should the prey escape. The only way to kill one of the creatures is to blind it and then throw the ring off a high place. Tata Duende - Regarded as the protectors of jungles and the flora and fauna that live within them, these mischievous faeries are known in the folklore of the Central American Mayan and Mestizo cultures. They wear wide-brimmed red hats and have feet that point backwards, as well as a lack of thumbs on their hands, and they are known to bite the thumbs off human children that they encounter. For their mischievous and malevolent behaviour, they are often used as boogeymen to scare children. Tatarigami - Incredibly destructive and wrathful, these mighty Japanese spirits are either evil deities or the wronged ghosts of powerful noblemen, and are usually known to target other noblemen and powerful political figures. They can cause calamity of all forms, ranging from enormous fires and floods to massive plagues and droughts. Some researchers consider them to be the living manifestations of curses, and shrines are often built to appease the unearthly beings. Tatsu - Usually found far away from human habitation, these majestic Japanese dragons are thought to be godlike in power and origin, and are heavily associated with water sources and stormy weather. They are capable of shapeshifting in order to interact with humans, and are often prayed to in the hope that they will bring good weather and productive harvests of crops. Some Buddhist temples maintain areas of holy ground dedicated to the wise dragons. Tatty Bogle - Hiding in fields and grasslands, these terrifying faeries appear as grotesque scarecrows, and spread blight and rot among crops and farms. They feed on the fear that their strange appearance generates, and will often kidnap human victims who wander in their fields alone. Due to their straw bodies, they are not quick in movement, though are unnaturally strong. Tatu-Carreta - Renowned for their tough, armored shells, these enormous prehistoric mammals represent relic populations of the long-extinct glyptodonts. They are known to local tribal populations in South America and Argentina, and they travel in small herds. Despite their large size, they are hunted and eaten by humans. Tatzelwurm - This small reptile is found in the Alps, and is said to have a two-legged serpentine body and a face like that of a cat. It has a mildly venomous bite, and feeds on small animals up to the size of a dog. They have not been seen recently, which suggests to some hunters that they may be going extinct. Taweret - Strange creatures, these hippopotamus-like beasts are known from the rivers and waterways of Egypt, where they are revered as representations of the goddess of childbirth and fertility. This goddess is also the primordial mother of the Sun in Egyptian culture, and the creatures themselves seem to display a degree of heat manipulation. Ta-Zam-A - With a name meaning 'Water Bear' in the local language, these bear-like monsters are said to inhabit Lake Shuswap in North America's California, and are roughly the size and shape of full-grown grizzly bears, but have elongated faces in comparison to their ursine counterparts. They may be related to Bunyips and Dobhar-Chús. One of them was killed by a Native American named Tomma San in 1904, and he apparently found 'concealed ears' beneath its flesh when he skinned it. Tchet-s - Following Ra as he moves on his Sun Boat through the eleventh section of Duat, the Egyptian Underworld, this enormous demon is described as a winged serpent, and is said to dwell above the stars where she casts the living out of the Underworld and away from the presence of Ra. After doing this, she consumes any other forms that she may have taken before following Ra on his journey. Modern translations of hieroglyphics are to blame for the confused-sounding description of this beast. Tchimose - Found in fast flowing rivers and deep lakes across North America, these spiky-headed aquatic humanoids are covered in dark green scales, but are also capable of shapeshifting to assume human form. They have spines on their heads and necks which were sometimes mistaken for hats in folklore, and are often known to break or tip over the canoes of Native Americans. Tçulo - Parasitic demons, these Romanian monsters resemble tiny balls covered in vicious spines, and will enter through the mouths of victims and then roll around in the intestine. This process causes extreme pain, though rarely death. The creatures seem to prefer to target pregnant women, and can only be removed through use of an exorcism rite. Te Hoata - Mentioned in the creation myth of the Māori people of New Zealand, these strange elementals are also known as Te Pupu, and often appear in pairs, sometimes referred to as sisters. When the first deity came to New Zealand, it was a cold and barren place, and so the god created these fiery nymph-like beings to produce geysers and volcanoes on the island. Te Tunaroa - Slimy and frightening in its eel-like true form, this rapacious Polynesian deity is capable of shapeshifting into a young and handsome human man, and was once the abusive husband of a powerful female deity named Hina. Hina eventually fled to land and the monstrous being followed her and attempted to have intercourse with her, before being slain by the culture hero Māui. From its body grew coconuts. Te Wheke-a-Muturangi - According to the legends of the Māori people of New Zealand, this monstrous octopus was kept as a familiar by the high priest known as Muturangi, and acted as a savage and wild guardian of the seas surrounding New Zealand. The beast was eventually slain by a culture hero, who has been identified as either Tamatea or Kupe, depending on the region in which the story is told. In order to kill it, the hero in question cut off its arms with a blade after a long chase. Teakettler - Featured in North American lumberjack folklore, these small and annoying creatures resemble stubby-legged dogs with the ears of cats, and get their name from the sound that they make, which is akin to a kettle boiling. They only ever move backwards and steam billows from their mouths as they whistle. Only a few humans have seen one, but many have heard their distinctive cries. Teelget - Spoken of in the culture of the Navajo people of North America, these demonic deer are roughly the size of rhinoceroses and are famously ruthless predators. Their mouths and heads are embedded in their round bodies, and their eyes and antlers flash with fire. They can only be killed if struck directly in the heart. Teetonian - First encountered in Italy during 1978, these three-horned aliens have thick grey skin that seems to undulate, and metal apparatuses that fit over their mouths to allow them to breathe in Earth's atmosphere. Their spacecraft emit light and intense heat, and are triangular in shape. It is said that they had a correspondence with a particular human victim through multiple abductions, in which they announced that they would soon come to Earth in larger numbers. The ultraterrestrials have not yet done this. Teihiihan - Literally meaning 'strong' in the local language, these North American faeries appear as child-sized humanoids, and are capable of becoming invisible as well as moving at incredible speeds. They are gluttonous, and will often kill much more prey than they can possibly eat. It is said that their culture values the individuals that can kill the most people. Teke Teke - Said to originally have been the souls of those who died in tragic accidents in which they were cut in half, these terrifying Japanese ghosts are named after the distinctive sound that they make as they walk on their hands. Despite not having legs, they are alarmingly fast, and have been known to somehow catch up to moving cars. They carry scythes with which they cut people in half, as vengeance for what happened to them. Teliko - Originally from West Africa, small populations of these monsters are known to have followed slave traders' ships across to America during history, and have since flourished in the suburbs of the country. They mostly target people of African heritage, and will stalk them using their ability to fit into impossibly tiny spaces before killing them and leaving their corpse a stark shade of white. Telkhine - Anthropomorphic sea-lions, these ancient Greek beings are said to be adept in metalworking, and to have forged the trident of Poseidon. It is mentioned in legends that they fought alongside Zeus and the Greek pantheon, before being sentenced to imprisonment in the Underworld because of their 'malignant use of magic'. Tellem - Said to be blessed with the gift of flight, these semi-mythical dwarfish people are alleged to have lived in the West African locale of the Bandiagara Escarpment between the 11th and 16th centuries before either interbreeding with, or being forced out by, the currently-extant Dogon people. They built small dwellings around the base of the Escarpment and directly into the cliff face, some of which are still visible to this day. The Dogon still use some granaries built by Tellem. Telvi - Tasked with collecting souls harvested by reapers or other angels of death, these morose angelic beings are attested to in Gnostic teachings, and usually bring souls back to Heaven where they can be judged. Little is known about them, because they are rarely seen by those who are not already dead, which severely limits the amount of information that can be collected. Tenaga-Jin - Using their bizarrely long arms as stilts, these humanoids hail from an unknown country off the coast of Japan. Their feet are prehensile, and are able to manipulate objects such as weapons, and are often used to spearfish. They are usually spotted standing in shallow pools in Japan and Asia, presumably having somehow strayed across from their own country. Tengu - These bird like demons come from Japan, and are renowned for their skill with martial arts and samurai weapons. They are also able to possess people to infiltrate human society, and kidnap young boys and priests. Whilst these victims are rarely returned, those who survive will be maddened by the experience. Tenjō-Kudari - Horrific Japanese monsters, these hag-like beings live in the crawlspace and rafters of old houses, and are known to hang down from the ceilings at night. They attempt to drag sleeping human victims up into their dens, where it is assumed that the secretive monsters will devour them. Tennin - Often mistaken for nymphs or faeries, these Asian angels were originally referred to in Chinese Buddhism, though have since been imported to Japanese religion and art, and appear as unnaturally beautiful women dressed in ornate jewelry and kimonos that fly around their bodies like trailing scarves. When they come to Earth, they remove these garments without which they cannot fly, and lonely travelers have sometimes been known to steal this clothing and force the beings to marry them. Tenome - Wandering through the open fields or graveyards of Japan at night, these beings resemble elderly humans at first glance, though have no eyes on their faces. Instead, their eyes are situated on the palms of their hands, and they rely mostly on their sense of smell when hunting. They feed on the bones of humans, which they can wrench out of the bodies of their victims. Tentsurushi - Sometimes thought to be the ghosts of young and mischievous children, these Japanese ghosts move around on ceilings and in other gravity-defying manners. They are not usually deliberately harmful to humans, though are frightening and distressing to observe, and sometimes accidentally cause deaths due to shock or panic. Teoi Hebi - Created when snakes or serpents are meaninglessly killed or tortured, these ghostly reptiles are mentioned in the folklore of Japan, in which living snakes are regarded as tenacious and persistent. Strangely, they will not attack those that killed them, but will instead target those that are afraid of the curse that will follow. A story is told of a headman who witnessed two children kill a snake, and then he was attacked by the ghost because he believed that he would be. Tepegöz - Born from nymphs as bizarre mutant children, these single-eyed brutes are referred to as ferocious ogres in Turkish mythology, in which a foolhardy man adopts a baby Tepegöz, only for it to grow up and start killing the children in the surrounding neighborhood, eventually being banished to the wilderness for its crimes. Although the being was invulnerable to most weapons, it was killed by a folk hero who stabbed it in its only eye and then cut off its head with an enchanted sword. Teraphim - Inhabiting either mummified human heads or small stone idols used in religious ceremonies, these beings are mentioned in Judaeo-Christian texts, in which they are regarded as illegal symbols of pagan worship. They are sometimes attributed with prophetic qualities, though the Hebrew literature in which they are first mentioned says that they deliberately mislead those that choose to trust them, implying that they are probably undead and evil in nature. Very little is known of them. Teratsutsuki - Viciously hunting down and destroying establishments of the Buddhist faith, this ghostly being was formed from the wrathful soul of a religious zealot after he was killed in battle. It uses the form of a woodpecker to slash at and break buildings, and its supernatural nature to feed on the underlying anger and rage of those around it. Teros - Dressing much like members of the public would be assumed to in the 1920s, and usually resembling humanoids with thin and lean body shapes, these ultraterrestrial beings are thought to be related to the Men in Black, and were first encountered by a witness in the North American state of Michigan in 1945. The witness saw two of them walking down a street, and became instantly paralysed and transfixed as the aliens warned him about 'unfriendly rays' before allowing him to move again. Terracotta Warrior - Crafted from clay and then infused with the souls of millions of tortured workers labouring under the command of the ancient Chinese empire, these statue-like constructs are said to spring to life when their country is threatened. This seemingly ticking time-bomb is not softened by the fact that several groups of the objects have been removed from the country and placed in museums. Terror Beast - Responsible for a series of brutal attacks throughout Malawi in 2003, these creatures hunt in small packs, and are frighteningly intelligent. They resemble bipedal and abnormally large hyenas, and normally attack the genitals or chests of their victims, leaving them completely eviscerated and partially eaten. The military was called in to deal with this attack. Tesso - Ratlike humanoids, these Japanese beasts are thought to have originally been formed from the vengeful spirit of an ancient prince. Their flesh is as hard as stone, and their claws and teeth are as strong as iron. They are known to have laid siege to several ancient villages by summoning ferocious armies of rats, and were only appeased by the construction of a shrine dedicated to their original ancestor. Teugghia - Accused of committing serious crimes in the Faery Realm, these Russian beings were cursed with being half hideous and half beautiful, and often suffer from a condition akin to split-personality disorder. Because of their criminal nature and the harshness of their punishment, they are often aggressive and hostile toward humans. Texas Manbat - Acting as the raptorial predators of Earth's middle stratosphere, these strange creatures have large front limbs that act as grasping claws to slash at larger animals. They usually hunt in packs, though an isolated member of the species was witnessed in its namesake state in 1976. Texas Man-Bat - Whipping their namesake North American state into a frenzy between 1975 and 1976, these monstrous flying creatures were variously described as resembling either extinct pterosaurs or dragon-like beings with the heads of gorillas and blazing red eyes, much like Mothman. One of the earliest reports described a tethered goat being torn to pieces by a 'flying creature of unknown origin' overnight, and other accounts continue to show that the monsters attack using vicious claws. Texas T-Rex - These bizarrely adapted reptiles have come to resemble theropod dinosaurs, and have seemingly lost their front limbs entirely. They are roughly 2ft tall at the shoulder, and seem to prefer hunting in forested areas of Southern Texas by night, though have been captured in the beams of car headlights and seen outside houses before, leading to frightening rumors about these mostly harmless animals. Teyú Yaguá - Appearing as enormous reptiles with seven canine heads and the ability to breathe fire, these bizarre South American aberrations are born from a curse placed on the children of those who committed sexual offenses. They live in caves and protect large sources of fruit or other sweet foodstuffs, and can be placated by offerings of enchanted honey. Thaman Chah - Also referred to as 'tree tigers', these shapeshifters are thought to be the Burmese equivalents of werewolves, and take on the forms of feline beasts with sharp fangs and large wings when exposed to specific conditions. Little is known about them due to their extreme rarity in the modern day, but it is assumed that their transformations are triggered by the use of magic rather than a supernatural contagion. Thames Monster - Spotted most recently in 2016, when an iconic piece of footage was captured, this cryptic creature is thought to be related to the legendary monster that dwells in Loch Ness, and is found in its namesake London body of water. There is speculation that it swum into the river from the Atlantic, and is a member of small population of similar creatures. Thamuz - Manipulative and intelligent, this powerful Spanish demon is sometimes regarded as a demonized variant of a beautiful Central American harvest deity, though this seems unlikely based on its behaviour. It is capable of producing mistrust and warlike feelings in humans around it, as well as supplying them with supernatural weapons and ammunition to fight. The scorpion-like entity is sometimes said to be responsible for the Spanish Armada. Thanacth - Quadruped primates, these animals come from India and are often mistaken for genuine sphinxes. They are covered in tawny brown fur, and hunt midsized prey silently using their padded feet. They have faces like humans, except with notably stubbed noses, and are thought to be related to gibbons and monkeys. Thanatos - Escorting souls to the Underworld, these beautiful Greek angels are sometimes thought to be the equivalent of the more well-known reapers. They are closely related to the deity known as Hypnos, and are kind and just towards the souls that they collect. However, they wield weapons such as swords to protect the souls from potential threats during the journey. Thayé - Resembling tall humanoids with glowing eyes and long tusks or fangs, these Burmese demons are born from the damned souls of those who were wicked or greedy in life, and are now cursed to cause illness in death. They enter villages at around noon or sunset, and enter households in order to sicken and bring misfortune to the occupants. Despite usually looking like dark-skinned demons, they can shapeshift into bloated and pallid creatures. Thelgeth - Covered in thick layers of hair and wielding impressively long claws, these vicious headless monsters are known from the folklore of ancient North American tribes. They have large mouths in their stomach areas, which leads to speculation on the part of some researchers that they may be related to the mapinguari. Theow - Predatory mesonychids, these hoofed creatures live in large packs all across Africa according to medieval heraldic sources. They appear akin to wolves with brightly-colored manes, though are not known to often attack humans. Strangely, they are said to develop long and woolly coats to conserve heat during colder months, which is a feature not known in many other mesonychids. Thetis Lake Monster - A relative of the abbagoochie and merbeings, this semi-aquatic primate was first seen around its namesake lake in 1972. It has long ears that are sometimes mistaken for fins or spikes, and silvery hair covering bluish skin. It has three digits on each hand, and webbed feet with which it can swim in a similar manner to a frog. Third Eye Man - First encountered by a group of students wandering the North American University of South Carolina utility tunnels in 1949, this bizarre humanoid resembles a grey and grotesque creature dressed in silver clothing, with a third eye on its forehead. It is rarely encountered nowadays, but some patrolmen have found mutilated chickens and livestock in the tunnels, and there is a story of another few students who approached the creature, only for it to knock one of them unconscious. This Man - Appearing in the dreams of people all over the world since at least 2006, this bizarre entity is described as either helping or hindering people in traumatic dreams and nightmares, and resembles a human with large eyes, bushy eyebrows and a wide mouth. Of course, these reports were originally hoaxed as a misguided art project, but the so-called encounters went viral on the Internet and a frightening tulpa was created. Thought Eater - Capable of rapidly teleporting between Limbo and the Material Plane, these bizarre psionic predators resemble emaciated platypuses, and are known to lurk in Limbo until they sense the nearby presence of an intelligent or preferably psychic creature, at which point they will immediately materialise on the Material Plane and feed on their victim's psychic energy until they are satiated or their victim dies. Despite the ease with which they can access the Material Plane, they will die rapidly there if not fed. Thriae - A sisterhood of nymphs, these beings guard the sacred springs belonging to ancient Greek deities, and were said to be only 3 in number in history, though seem to have multiplied in modern times. They have the bodies of bees, complete with venomous stings, and the torsos of beautiful nymphs. In ancient times, they are said to have been the lovers of several deities, including Poseidon and Apollo, with which they bore children. Throne - Sometimes confused with the Erelim or the Ophanim, these dazzling angels appear instead as humanoids covered in blazing light, and are said to be the direct advisers for God. They are apparently in charge of gathering and sorting through the prayers of humanity, and presenting them to the aforementioned father being. Thugine - Usually dwelling deep beneath the seas and lakes surrounding Australia, these fearsome sea serpents are often confused with rainbow serpents and local deities, when they are actually closer in behavior and origin to bogeymen. They will wait for unwary children to enter choppy waters and then teach them a fatal lesson by coiling around them and transforming them into rocks. When nearby adults realize what has happened, the serpents will escape from the water in the form of a rainbow. Thunderbird - Although originally only known from Native American mythology, these enormous birds were said to have the ability to induce stormy weather and vicious winds. There was some speculation that a living pterosaur may be behind this creature, though it has recently been discovered to be an abnormally large species of eagle. Thuum'ha - Semi-amphibious humanoids that once dwelt around a lake close to the ancient stone city of Ib, these strange but apparently sentient entities are known from the arcane writings of HP Lovecraft, but were said to have been attacked by the human residents of the nearby city of Sarnath around ten thousand years ago, driving them to near extinction. Some have suggested that they are synonymous with the Deep Ones, but this is unlikely to be true due to their docile nature. Thylacine - Although officially listed as extinct, these doglike marsupials still exist in small populations in the outback of Australia. They hunt mostly at night, and are able to take down prey much larger than themselves due to their powerful build and widely-extending jaws. Since their 'extinction' date of 1936, there have been several expeditions to find living specimens, though none have returned with success. Thyr - Stalking the isolated mountains and country roads of Britain, these hulking phantoms represent the ghostly souls of long-dead giants, and are known to often be accompanied by the sounds of clanking chains. They are gleefully aware of the terror and panic that they inspire in human travelers, and their presence has become immortalized in local myths because of this. Tiamat - Symbolizing primordial chaos in the religion of the Babylonian and Middle-Eastern people, this incredibly powerful goddess is said to have given birth to a large portion of the monsters that populate the Earth today. She would usually be found in deep water sources such as lakes or seas, and was said to have married an aquatic deity. The representation of her as a multi-headed dragon is a modern invention. Tianlong - Heavenly dragons that are thought to be related to nāgas, these powerful Asian creatures are sometimes said to carry the souls of dead Buddhists away from our realm and into Nirvana. When they are not on our world, they are represented by strangely moving stars or comets in the night sky. Tiburone - Swimming through the skies of the Philippines, these sharks have evolved to be able to fly limited distances using specially-adapted bladders and elongated fins. They are rarely seen inland, and often just leap out of the sea to catch birds and large fish. However, there are reports of the creatures following divers onto shore, and then consuming them when they get to where they think they will be safe. Tiddalik - Salamander-like amphibians, these creatures lurk in the rivers and lakes of Australia, and will feed on fish and small animals that wander too close to the water's edge. They are known to absorb massive amounts of water into their bodies in seasons of drought, and then regurgitate it when the next rainfall occurs. This behavior has led to the genesis of an Aboriginal legend about one of the creatures creating lakes after spitting large amounts of water. Tien-Schu - With a name that literally translates as 'the mouse that hides itself', these unusually-sized Chinese rodents are famously secretive, and live in vast underground caverns where they feed on roots. They have thick coats of dark hair, and are roughly the size of oxen, but are rarely seen by humans because they will die immediately if exposed to any form of light. Because of their enormity, they are immensely strong and their bodies are sometimes mistaken for those of mammoths. Tigelboat - Described as resembling bizarre hybrids of elephants, lions and goats, these Indonesian mammals were first discovered when a specimen was captured in a Borneo rain-forest during 1975, but the animal sadly died before it could be studied. From the description, it bears a notable resemblance to the Malayan tapir, which is not supposed to exist in Borneo. The younger individuals of the species have tiger-like stripes on their backs. Tikbalang - These horse-like creatures come from the mythology of the Philippines, and will lurk around forested areas where they will act as vicious tricksters. They can only be kept at bay using one of the hairs from their manes, which are very difficult to obtain for obvious reasons. Tiki - Protective faeries mentioned in the folklore of Polynesia and New Zealand, these powerful beings are deeply respected by native tribes, so much so that their likenesses are carved onto jade amulets and charms. They are thought to have originated from the ancestors of the first ever human created by the creator deity of New Zealand. Tikis have now come to be closely associated with fertility and reproduction. Timbo - Found in the Spanish-speaking South American territory of Honduras, these grotesque relatives of the chupacabra resemble small bipedal animals with sharp, canine faces and bloated bellies with reddish hair, as well as enormous claws with which they dig up graves. The ghoulish creatures tend to lurk in graveyards where they can desecrate and devour corpses, and they are universally despised by the inhabitants of local villages because of their profane feeding habits. Time Traveler - Ever since the technology was invented in the 21st century, groups of humans and their evolutionary descendants have been using it to travel back in time and experience historical events. There are several different groups of these people known, some of which are benevolent and helpful, but others are dangerous and malevolent. Using this phenomenon, scientists have been able to construct an accurate image of mankind's evolutionary future. Timingila - Thought by some to be related to leviathans, these enormous sharks are mentioned in the mythology of the Hindu religion, in which the supreme deity Krishna compares himself to one of them. They are large enough to swallow whales in single bites, which is what their name signifies in Sanskrit. Modern researchers have equated them to the prehistoric megalodon, and they are also believed to be either extinct or incredibly rare nowadays much like the aforementioned shark. Tink - Tiny and playful, these faeries usually resemble glowing balls of light to the untrained human eye, but will appear as completely nude human females if viewed closer. They are incredibly fast, and are almost ridiculously strong relative to their miniature size, and are capable of throwing full-grown humans across rooms. For this ability, they are often used as mercenaries and intimidation agents by other faeries. Tir - Causing various calamitous accidents and minor injuries, these impish household djinn are often mistaken for faeries because of their similar habits and abilities. They are capable of manipulating luck and chance, changing the fortunes of those around them so that they are hindered and harmed as much as possible. According to some sources, they are the descendants of Iblis. Tirisuk - Famous for their enormous leathery tentacles that are unique among dragons, these monstrous serpentine creatures are known from the Inuit folklore of North America and Canada. In most myths containing references to the creatures, they are said to have extremely strong jaws that can bite through almost anything, and were recorded as commonly devouring entire hunting parties and foolhardy heroes. Ti-Sikh-Puk - Resembling large worms or caterpillars in their true forms, these Alaskan shapeshifters are known from the folklore of the Yupik people, and are often known to assume the forms of beautiful human men or women. In these shapes, they are said to have married humans and produced hybrid children. If these children are killed or hurt, the parents have been known to become extremely wrathful to the point that killing them by dismemberment is the best form of self-defense. Titivillus - Causing grammatical and spelling errors in copied manuscripts and other forms of literature, as well as collecting idle chat in church services and missed or mumbled words on behalf of the service-givers, this subversive medieval demon will then present them against the souls of the deceased in Hell. For the earlier half of the 1900s, the Oxford English Dictionary included an incorrect page reference for the demon, showing its power. It is thought to be the ancestor of gremlins. Tiyanak - Found in the forests and jungles of the Philippines, these dwarfish vampires often shapeshift into the form of a helpless human child, crying loudly to attract hapless passersby. When the would-be good Samaritan picks up the child, the monster reverts back into its true form and kills them. It is thought that they were originally the souls of children whose mothers died before they were born. Tizheruk - Often mistaken for sea serpents, these long-bodied pinnipeds are close relatives of the leopard seal, and hunt animals off the coast of Alaska. They are incredibly fast beasts, and are said to be able to snatch a human off a pier without other people nearby noticing before it is too late. Full-grown individuals can reach incredible sizes, with heads roughly 7ft long. Tjinimin - Thought to have played a part in the birthing of the Aboriginal people of Australia, these enormous bat-like creatures are often referred to as deities, but very little else is known about them. It is said that the first member of this species wanted to have sexual intercourse with one of the consorts of the Rainbow Serpent, but lost an argument that would have allowed it to do this, and so hung upside down in a tree and vowed to never have sexual contact again. Tlahuelpuchi - Largely feeding on children, these terrifying Mexican vampires pass their curse down their bloodlines, and live in a mostly matriarchal society in desert areas. They are known to often make deals with shamans or other supernatural beings, and are capable of shapeshifting into a vulture to hunt for their prey. When they change form, they give off a glowing aura. Tlaloc - This powerful Aztec god is said to be the ruler of water, rain and the weather, and is also supposed to resemble a human crocodile hybrid creature in his true form. In order for him to continue providing safe water for areas in which he resides, he demands human sacrifice by drowning. Tlaltecuhtli - Usually depicted in a pose similar to that of a woman giving birth in Aztec artwork, this monstrous being is thought to have originally been a colossal sea creature that represented the chaos before the creation of the world. It was killed by two benevolent deities, who assumed the forms of serpents and tore it into two pieces, which then became the land and the sky. Despite this, it somehow remains alive and demands sacrifices of human blood. Tlanusi - Lurking in North Carolina rivers and lakes, these massive leeches were mentioned in the local Cherokee folklore as being responsible for several riverside disappearances. They are said to enter their rivers and cause tsunamis because of their displacing weight, which kills all nearby humans. The creatures will then feed on the ears and noses of their victims. Tlanuwa - Appearing similar to giant peregrine falcons, these massive North American birds are regarded as fearsome predators in local Cherokee tradition. When wild, they will hunt both humans and animals in the same manner that a regular hawk would prey on mice. However, there are some stories of the creatures becoming domesticated, and being used as hunting companions or mounts in battle. Tlilcoatl - This powerful, double-tailed serpent is found in the swamps and caves of Mexico, where it generates suction from its mouth strong enough to pull passers-by to their deaths. It usually feeds on fish, though has been known to consume humans that get stuck in the water. Scarily, there have been reports of these snakes laying deliberate traps out in urban areas. Todmorden Creature - Sometimes associated with aliens, ultraterrestrials or UFO activity, this truly bizarre hairy humanoid was witnessed in its namesake British locale, which is famous for paranormal phenomena. It was described as having wide shoulders and a body that tapered quickly down from these, and the witness that gave this description likened it to Taz the Tasmanian Devil from contemporary cartoons. To-Filiko-Teras - Despite its resemblance and relation to the legendary Greek sea monster known as Scylla, this multi-headed beast never does more harm to humans than dragging away their fishing nets. It is sometimes known as the 'friendly monster' by fishermen off the coast of Cyprus, and is rarely sighted at all. Judging from this, it likely lives in a sea-cave at some abyssal depth. Tokoloshe - Annoying South African faeries, these hairy creatures resemble goblins in both behavior and appearance, and enjoy biting people's toes whilst they are sleeping. They are often summoned by vengeful magic users, and can only be banished from our world by the same person. However, they enjoy drinking curdled milk, and may become almost benevolent if they are given some. Tokoloshe - Small and goblin-like, these hairy South African faeries are often summoned by dark magic users who have been wronged in some way, and seek to use the creatures to carry out their ideal vengeances. These acts can be anything from harmless mischief, to physical assault and murder. Although the monsters may look laughable at first, they can be seriously destructive and can only be removed with the help of a specially trained exorcist, referred to as a n'anga in the local folklore. Tom Thumb - Similar to sprites save for their lack of wings, these beings are mentioned as a single individual in English folklore, from which the species gets its name. They were first spoken of in 1611, and were said to enjoy sugary foods such as puddings, and to annoy the residents of grand houses. Despite their storied history, they are notably rarer in today's world. Tomb Mote - Brought to life by latent magical energy from necromantic spells, these imp-like undead creatures are formed from leftover pieces of previously-animated monsters, such as rotting teeth and dusty hair. Despite their small stature, they are amazingly intelligent and fast, and will lurk around graveyards where they try to bite intruders, transmitting a disease called 'corpse bloat', which produces paralysis, decay and an odour of decay in its victims, oft meaning they are buried alive. Tombstone Tom - Plaguing the farmlands around Yorkshire, these feline predators differ from other British big cats because of their bulky physiology and their pale grey or white fur. Very little is known about them because of the absence of modern records, but the famous Brontë sisters are known to have encountered one of the beasts. They appear to have the supernatural ability to choose to whom they are visible. Tomokazuki - Appearing to divers and deep sea fishermen, these aquatic doppelgängers are found in deep portions of the oceans around Japan, and will mimic the appearance of those that see them. They will offer their human counterparts fish or other rare aquatic bounties, luring them deeper into the water until they drown. Tompondrano - Appearing as a colossal aquatic crocodile-like dragon that was originally mistaken for the legendary Leviathan, this powerful Madagascan deity has the ability to control the flora and fauna in its local area. There are stories that are passed around isolated villages about children being kidnapped by monstrous serpents before praying to this deity in order to be rescued. Tomte - Strange little Swedish faeries, these dwarfish creatures were originally referred to as agriculture spirits that would either give gifts or mete out cruel punishment to those on their farmland depending on their behavior during the Yuletide season. They are often conflated with either Saint Nicholas or garden gnomes, because of their appearance and behavior consecutively. Tongesnaier - Disturbing boogeymen known from Dutch folklore, these hideous humanoids are known to forcibly cut off the tongues of children who stick their tongues out at each-other, or those who lie. Judging from a depiction of one found in an ancient woodcut, they resemble humanoid beings with extremely large heads and grotesque, caricature-like facial features. They seem to take a sickening pleasure in removing the tongues of children. Toonjuk - Related to trolls, these enormous hairy humanoids are found in the icy plains and forests of Canada and Alaska. They are said to have long hair that they braid and style in a tribal manner, and to have faces that remotely resemble those of humans. Despite their brutish nature, they seem to be reasonably intelligent, seeing as they have the ability to fashion primitive tools and even clothing. Tooth Fairy - Small but vicious, these little predators consume the calcium-based teeth and bones of larger creatures by hunting in swarms. A by-product of this feeding is a strange gold-like substance that the faeries excrete as a waste product. Despite appearing predatory and mindless, the creatures seem to be moderately intelligent, and stories of them effectively communicating with humans have been reported. Topielec - Inhabiting the stagnant bodies of water in which they drowned, these Slavic ghosts are responsible for dragging human passersby into lakes and swamps, and are sometimes mistaken for merfolk. Their dark influence results in the mass death of flora and fauna around their watery habitats. Tore - Vicious African elementals, these creatures often appear as leopards or panthers comprised of wood and vines, and are worshipped as gods during the initiation ceremonies of local tribes. They can shapeshift, often becoming enormous storms or tornadoes to intimidate potential enemies. If directly threatened, they can use their ferocious claws or deadly venomous bites to kill aggressors. Tornit - Dwelling in caves and caverns in the interior of the planet, these giants are usually around twice the size of an average human, and are mentioned in the Inuit culture of Greenland or Canada. They are incredibly wise and are believed to be peaceful, as well as to have the ability to communicate telepathically. Strangely, they will only go fishing during foggy weather, and will sit on the surface of the water to move around instead of using kayaks. Toronto Rabbit - Believed to have accidentally been created as a tulpa, this malevolent creature resembles a gigantic rabbit, with sharp teeth and a taste for human flesh. According to a local urban myth in its namesake North American state, two sisters decided to prank a younger child by inventing a story of a child-eating rabbit, and faking physical evidence such as footprints. All three of them were terrified when they witnessed something monstrous moving in the bushes. Tosetáx - Found above the vast valleys and deserts of Paraguay and other South American regions, these monstrous serpents have two heads, as well as a third disembodied mouth in the middles of their coiled bodies. They build their aerial nests in the paths of Thunderbirds, and are known to devour the giant birds before they can bring rain to the region, thereby causing droughts and dry seasons. This ecological disaster can be prevented by shamans removing the serpents from the sky and cutting off their heads, as well as slicing them in half to neutralise the third mouth. Toudaiki - Born from the incinerated bodies of those who were executed in the 'human candle' fashion in ancient Japanese societies, these emaciated undead have waxy skin and burning candles embedded into their foreheads. They will often attempt to communicate with their still-living relatives, but this will often be in the form of terrifying rasping noises because of their lack of vocal chords. Toyol - Appearing as human infants with greenish skin, these creatures behave as monkeys, and are able to be invoked by Malaysian dark magic users. They are often used to steal and cause mischief, and can be created from the body of an aborted child. Tragelaphos - Obscure Greek hybrid beasts, these mammals resemble hybrids of deer and goats, and were assumed to be simply ornamental motifs in Greek artwork until they were documented in the works of Aristotle and Pliny. Very little is known about their origins, though some have suggested that they may have originally come from Eastern regions, and are possibly the result of breeding between goats and deer. Traîcousse - Lurking in fast-flowing rivers and deep lakes in France and Belgium, this crab-like monster is said to have a flat body covered in scales, and countless powerful limbs ending with massive claws. It has glowing red eyes the size of human fists, and is known to kidnap humans and livestock that wander too close to the water's edge. Because of this behavior, the being is often invoked by parents to discourage their children from falling into deep water. Trapper - Once thought to be relatives of Lurkers Above, these perfectly-camouflaged creatures are actually distant relatives of oozes that have adapted to dwell within the various dilapidated buildings and dungeons of the world, changing their body structures to match the colour and texture of the floors of these buildings. When would-be explorers venture onto their bodies, they will remain still until their victims are in the centre, at which point they will fold over and digest them. Trasgu - Found in various Northern Spanish areas such as Asturias, these diminutive household faeries usually wear red clothing and pointed caps, and are also said to have small holes in their left hands which irritated homeowners can use to their advantage in getting rid of them. Much like Brownies, they will perform household tasks overnight, but will become mischievous and dangerous if they are angered. If this happens, homeowners should spread linseed on the floor and ask them to pick it up. Trauco - This humanoid creature lives in deep forests in Chile, and has legs without feet which it uses to move quickly and silently. It has a powerful magnetism to young or middle aged women, instantly enchanting them. To men, the gaze of this monster can be fatal. Travis Walton Abductor - Responsible for one of the best-known cases of alien abduction, these large-eyed ultraterrestrial beings are known to have abducted a North American logger from the Arizonan area of Snowflake on the 5th of November 1975. Their namesake victim awoke in a hospital-like room after being hit by a beam from a UFO, where he encountered the dwarfish humanoids, which resembled the classic Greys. Before being returned to Earth, he also encountered Nordic Aliens in a UFO hangar. Tree Ent - Named after the Anglo-Saxon term for a giant creature, these massive beings resemble humanoid trees. They are found mostly in dense European forests, and are incredibly wise creatures. Their bark like skin is impossible to pierce with conventional weaponry, and they are strong enough to kill with a single punch. Treefolk - Highly sacred in various circles of faery belief, these beings resemble large trees such as holly or oak when viewed from above ground, though actually have a humanoid body buried underneath them in place of roots. They are sentient and highly intelligent, though rarely communicate with any beings that do not belong to their own race. In times of emergency, they can uproot themselves and use their human bodies to walk, though this is more common in young individuals of the species. Treesqueak - Evolved to mimic weasels or other mustelids, these peculiar North American monkeys are mentioned jokingly in the folklore of lumberjack populations, in which they are said to produce a wide variety of otherwise-inexplicable noises. These loud cries include the growls of large cats, the shrieks of foxes and even the blasts of shotguns. Strangely, the animals have been observed to change color in order to camouflage themselves. Trelquehuecuve - Controlled by the terrifying constructs known as the invunche, these Chilean monsters resemble humans from a certain distance, and are used by the flesh-eating monster to lure victims to remote areas. When these victims get close enough, the shapeshifting beasts reveal their true nature and become octopus-like monsters, before abducting the person and dragging them back to the invunche. Trempulcahue - Escorting the souls of the dead to the Afterlife in the mythology of Chile, these strange undead cetaceans shapeshift into the forms of elderly women during the day. They will travel in packs of four as enormous whales, and can only be seen by people who are destined to die in the immediate future. Because of this, they are classified as psychopomps. Trenti - These Spanish faeries lurk deep within the undergrowth of forests, and camouflage themselves with mushrooms and leaves. They have ebony black skin and glowing green eyes, and will leap out of the woods at passers-by in an attempt to frighten them. It is unknown why they do this, though it is thought that this is just playful behavior. Trickster - Powerful deities, these reality-warping beings are found in cultures all over the world, and are fond of using their incredible powers to teach those around them 'lessons'. This is their word for inflicting their own warped morality onto others around them using cruel and often deadly tricks. The only way to kill one of these creatures is by impaling them with a wooden stake stained with the blood of one of their previous victims. Tripodero - Strange reptiles, these creatures live in the undergrowth and grasslands of North America, where they feed on birds and small animals. They have telescopic legs, which can extend in and out of their bodies, allowing them to hide in the bushes and then suddenly raise themselves to fire dart-like projectiles from their mouth. These stun potential prey animals, and the creatures then dash forwards to consume the dazed animals. Triton - These distinctive merfolk are usually limited to the areas in and around Greece, though have been seen in other places in the Mediterranean sea. They are covered in venomous spines, and have the enchanting abilities of their relatives. Trolde - Distantly related to other trolls, these Danish beings are known to be entirely comfortable with being in contact with the sun, and to sometimes have two horns on their foreheads. They do not eat humans, and are very small compared to most trolls or ogres. Their society is structured into small family groups. Troll - Found mostly in Norway and other Scandinavian territories, these humanoid creatures are found in two distinct varieties. One of which (the rarer) is an enormous, trunked humanoid that lives in caves and has an extreme reaction to sunlight. The other is a small and rodent-like being, which is highly intelligent and will often take up residence in human houses. Trolle - Closely related to Norwegian trolls, these creatures were often depicted in Scandinavian heraldic art as creatures with their faces embedded in their stomachs, which was a concept based on their hunched backs. They have long tails like those of lions, and powerful arms with which they can tear large prey items into pieces. Trolual - Commonly depicted on ancient mariners' maps, these monstrous creatures resemble whales with paws and large prongs on their heads. They crush and overturn ships that sail into Scandinavian waterways, and are sometimes said to masquerade as islands to lure sailors to their deaths. As with other monstrous whales, however, they can be distracted by throwing objects into the water near them. Trow - Ugly and nocturnal, these faeries live in underground mounds in the Orkney Islands during the day, and will venture out at night to steal from households. They have a love for music, and will sometimes kidnap musicians. There have been recorded cases of these creatures gathering after dusk to have small musical ceremonies around campfires. True Giant - Sighted worldwide, these enormous variants of sasquatches have sometimes been known to reach heights of up to 50 foot tall. They are fairly peaceful and indifferent towards humans, and will hibernate for most of their lives, making encounters with them incredibly rare. Although they were plentiful in numbers in ancient history, they seem to be decreasing as more areas become urbanized by human populations. Trumpeter - Sounding supernaturally loud trumpets to signal the beginning of the Judaeo-Christian Apocalypse, these terrifying angels travel in groups of seven individuals, with each angel's trumpet bringing forth a different catastrophe. The first trumpet signifies a mass of fire and blood striking the Earth and destroying all vegetation, and then the seventh eventually signifies the Second Coming of Christ. Trunko - First recorded off the coast of Margate in South Africa on October 25th, 1924 as it fought two killer whales, this highly unusual aquatic creature used its lobster-like tail to fight the orcas before finally being defeated and washed ashore as a globster, lying on the beach for 10 days after that. Apparently, the animal was covered in snowy-white fur and had an elephantine trunk attached directly to its body, thus lacking a head. It may be related to the Gajah Mina. Tschäggättä - Often invoked during ancient pagan rituals that still take place across Sweden, these frightening masked monsters behave in a similar manner to the legendary Krampus. They stalk and chase villagers throughout a specific period of time, attacking them by either throwing snow at them or physically hitting them. Sometimes, their mischief gets violent enough that they have to be exorcised. Tsemaus - Brutal cetaceans with armored flesh, these beasts use their natural resemblance to driftwood to snag unwary ships, and pierce their hulls using their incredibly sharp dorsal fins. They are known from the mythology of the Haida people of North American and Canada, and seem to be related to the ziphius of Europe. If angered, they will breach on top of boats and sink them mercilessly, the people that they drown becoming orca whales. Tsenahale - Enormous birds spoken of in the folklore of the Navajo people of North America, these feathered monsters live in mountains or derelict buildings, and other high-up roosts. They resemble gigantic vultures, and prey exclusively on humans of their own genders. Despite their weather-controlling abilities, they can be hurt by large voltages of electricity. Tshunuxu - Born from the wrathful spirits of Native American warriors who were scalped and slain in battle, these alarming undead beings appear as decaying versions of their living selves, with the tops of their heads missing. Although they are usually malevolent beings that seek to frighten and brutalize passersby, some individuals have bucked this trend by helping people and leading them through difficult terrain. Tsikavats - Created when dark magic users incubate the eggs of black hens in a biological place such as a manure heap for 40 days, these strange avian creatures are spoken of in the Slavic folklore of Serbia. They are highly loyal to their masters, and will steal food and milk from nearby farms and settlements using sacks that they carry at all times. Tsiskagili - Supposedly gaining their striking red carapaces when they were scorched as the Sun set for the first time during the Native American creation myth, these giant crayfish are found in the cold lakes and rivers of North America. Unlike other shellfish, they are not eaten or hunted by local tribes, because their meat tastes like burnt flesh, which serves to support the validity of the mythology. Tsomgomby - Producing terrifying cries that have the ability to literally paralyze people with fear, these massive Madagascan reptiles are often mistaken for buffalo because of their sheer size. They are savage and cannibalistic, and are known to lay some of the largest eggs known to the natives. Their name signifies their large and hanging ears. Tsuchigumo - Literally meaning 'death spider' in Japanese, this monstrous creature is found in caves and thin forests. They have powerful legs and a mildly venomous bite, as well as deadly, snapping jaws. They will build their nests in tubes of webbing, and will ambush prey from inside these. Tsuchinoko - Snakes that are found in Japan, these reptiles have thin tails and heads, but wide bodies that can reach up to 80 inches long. They have fangs and deadly venom, and can also apparently jump several meters in the air. Tsukumogami - Objects or tools that have been neglected over a long period will gradually start to develop souls of their own, and will become vengeful towards those who abandoned them. Things that are humanoid in shape will come to life much quicker, and there have been a number of modern cases recorded involving restaurant animatronics coming to life. Tsul 'Kalu - Featured as hunting spirits in Native American Cherokee folklore, these hairy humanoids show supernatural abilities such as telepathy and shapeshifting. In their true forms, they are 9-10ft tall, covered in dark hair and have tribal markings all over their bodies. When in human form, they will often say that they are professional hunters. Tsurube Otoshi - Lurking in forests through which travelers are likely to pass, these bizarre Japanese aberrations resemble enormous heads belonging to numerous humanoid species, and hunt by waiting for unsuspecting victims to pass beneath the tall trees in which they live before falling down on top of them, crushing them to death and devouring them. They take a sickening pleasure from this, and will slip back up into the tree afterwards while singing a sardonic taunt, as to challenge others. Tsurubebi - Smallish relatives of the will-o-the-wisp found in deep coniferous forests in the Shikoku and Kyushu regions of Japan, these arboreal faeries will assume the forms of small orbs of blueish-white fire at night, and will aimlessly bob around among the tree branches, sometimes falling to the ground and floating back up. Sometimes, monstrous or humanoid faces can be seen in the flames, but the creatures themselves are generally benign and uninterested in humans. Tsutsugamushi - Resembling huge and contorted versions of common household pests and parasites such as mites or bedbugs, these monstrous Japanese humanoids will crawl into the houses of their victims overnight. They will drain the blood and vital fluids from their victims, and inject all those that stand in their way with a deadly venom. Ts'uu K'waay Ga - Occurring mostly in and around cedar trees, these Canadian nymphs are referred to in the local legends of the Haida people, and are thought to represent a symphony between humans and the environment around them. They are usually helpful, and have been known to guide lost travelers back to their villages in ancient times. Tuatha Dé Danann - Often mistakenly identified as faeries or elementals, these noble and regal beings are actually members of a supernatural race more closely related to ancient Irish deities. They are all descended from a single individual who led the previous inhabitants of Ireland, and are said to each represent a branch of the local environment or culture. Despite being gentle today, they were described as descending from the skies in dark clouds and slaughtering the previous inhabitants. Tulpa - Created using a Tibetan form of magic, these beings are constructed by the concentration of human thought energy, and will soon take on their own consciousness after being created. They will often become self-aware, and rebel against their masters (with often fatal consequences for said master). Tumor Seal - Forming from the bodies of animals sacrificed to bizarre, literally bottomless holes found across North America, these psychic parasites originally look like large tumours in the bodies of their hosts, but will then emerge from these growths as disgusting creatures resembling foetal seals. The holes are sometimes known as 'Devil's holes' or 'Mel's holes', after the man who first publicised their existence. Despite their hideous appearance, they are benevolent can can cure cancer. Tunnituaqruk - Monstrous humanoids covered in tattoos, these hideous ogres are mentioned in the Inuit folklore of Canada, and are often found in urban areas where they scavenge the rubbish and litter left by human populations. Like bogeymen, they are known to hide in shadowy areas and leap out at passersby, seemingly with no other objective than to cause fear. The females are known as Katytayuuq, but differences between the sexes is so extreme that they are often regarded as different species. Tuntapan - Bizarre aquatic monsters, these Australian creatures are said to appear as if they have horses' heads atop long necks like those of emus, and to feed mostly on crayfish and other crustaceans. They are mostly reported throughout the 19th century, and were said to have large flippers and to lay large eggs. Tuntapan - Reported from Australia's Port Phillip in the 19th century, this sea-dwelling creature is likely to be a marine variety of bunyip, and was described as a long-necked animal with a emu's head and a horse's mane, as well as flippers instead of feet. It was said to lay eggs, and to have a diet consisting mostly of crayfish and other small aquatic invertebrates, but would also not hesitate to consume members of the local Aboriginal population. Tupan - Known to the native people of Brazil and South America, these dwarfish elementals appear as stout humanoids with long hair, and represent lightning and thunderstorms. When Christian missionaries came to these native peoples, they changed the name to refer to a holy person or object. Tupilaq - Referred to in the folklore and legends of the Greenlandic Inuit people, these small constructs are fashioned out of the bones or skin of murdered victims, and then bought to life using witchcraft. They are deadly killers, though will be rebound against their creators if the person they are sent to kill has greater magic abilities than their maker. If this happens, the only escape for the witch is public confession. Tursus - Found in Finland and other Scandinavian territories, these shapeshifting aquatic faeries resemble upright-walking walruses in their true form. They can often be found gathered on ice plains at night, fishing in small communal groups. They are not hostile towards humans by default, though are not afraid to rid the water of any and all useful fish if they feel that they have been wronged. Turtle Lake Monster - Usually described as being roughly 3-11 meters long, these horse-headed lake monsters have been being described by local people around its namesake Canadian lake since pre-settlement times. Because of its mammalian appearance, there is speculation that it may represent some kind of giant pinniped. Tū-Te-Wehiwehi - Resembling large humanoid reptiles or lizards, these creatures are known from the folklore of the Maori culture of New Zealand, and are thought to be related to deities. The family of deities from which they came is said to have split up due to a war and moved into different areas to start new families. In the case of these creatures, their families were modern reptiles. Tuttle Bottoms Monster - Roaming the swampy forests of Illinois, these peculiar monotremes have evolved a gharial-like snout to feed on fish. These snouts are tipped with sensitive whiskers that can detect movements in water. The creatures make burrows in the river-banks in which they sleep during colder seasons. Tuyango - Argentinean birds, these beasts are extant relatives of the ancient terror birds, and are said to live in small flocks among swamps and marshlands. They kill humans using vicious bites to their necks, and are sometimes known to club prey to death using their feet. Although it is not known why, they seem to have a natural adversity with hawks. Two-Toed Tom - Attacking in a curiously similar manner to the Beast of Gévaudan, this rapacious alligator terrorized the swamps of North America throughout the 1900s, and is known to have drowned and assaulted all those who attempted to capture it. It appeared to be completely immune to modern weaponry, even resisting death when its habitat was blown up by dynamite. Its name comes from the two-toed tracks that it leaves, due to it having got its feet caught in a vengeful farmer's trap. Twrch Trwyth - Tusked mesonychids, these monsters are mentioned in the folklore of Arthurian Wales, and are said to be covered in a pelt of poisonous bristles. The descriptions in the mythology are very confused and convoluted, though an appearance resembling a hybrid of a boar and a wolf can be ascertained. Tyger - Hardly resembling their namesake feline predators, these bizarre hybrid beasts are mentioned in European heraldry, in which they are said to have red fur and tusks protruding from their beaked snouts. The females of the species are extremely protective of their young, and will chase and kill any creatures that they feel pose a threat to their brood. However, they appear to become hypnotized when confronted with their own reflection. Tylwyth Teg - Described as beautiful humanoids with fair hair, these Welsh faeries are known to covet golden-haired human children, often stealing them away and replacing them with changeling-like beings known as Crimbils, and are said to live either underground or under the water. Some individuals are known to marry human men, but they must be careful never to touch iron or else they will be teleported back to the Faery Realm. They bestow riches, but these will vanish if they are spoken of. Tympaniaosis - Disgusting Greek vampires resembling corpses swollen up to balloon-like proportions, these hideous undead creatures are sluggish and torpid, and will only occasionally emerge from their tombs, even then only being seen during daylight hours (which is obviously unusual for vampires). They can only be destroyed on Saturdays, seeing as they abide by the laws of the Hebrew Day of Rest and all return to their graves. Only bishops can kill them, with local priests being unable to. Typhon - Known to have once challenged Zeus for supremacy over the Greek cosmology, this monstrous giant resembles a humanoid with snakes and dragons instead of lower limbs. It is capable of producing large quantities of flame and fatal venom from these heads, and is currently believed to be imprisoned in Tartarus under Mount Etna. Echidna is its mate, and together they have given life to many of the world's most feared monsters. Tyrfing - Fatally cursing all those who use it, this frightening construct was born when an ancient Norse king by the name of Svafrlami forced a group of dwarves to create a sword that would cut through stone and iron as easily as through clothes. However, anyone who unsheathes and wields the weapon will be cursed with extreme misfortune and doomed to eventually lose their life in otherwise-avoidable circumstances. It has been known to control the minds of its users and force them to kill. Tzephariron - Mentioned in the mythology of the Jewish Kabbalah, these earthy demons are members of the Twelve Qlippothic Orders of Demons, and should thus be classified as Qlippoths. They usually appear as undead creatures which will become wreathed in yellow flame if they stop moving, and are known to strip the flesh from human victims in order to release their souls. These souls will then be corrupted, and go on to possess more human victims, thus creating more Tzephariron. Tzitzimitl - These skeletal monsters are found in Central Mexico, and represent female fertility and pregnancy. However, they will become vicious during a solar eclipse, and will seek out and eat any humans that they can find. They are sometimes regarded as demons, though this is unconfirmed. Ua Ua Pach - Wielding three long and bladed tongues to flay and slice their victims, these humanoid insects lurk in the dense jungles of South America, and are known to fashion jewelry out of the organs of their prey. They are especially fond of consuming the kidneys of human quarries, for unknown reasons. Due to their bipedal nature, they are sometimes mistakenly identified as true giants. Uay-Cot - Dwelling in the walls of Central American or Mexican houses, these annoying Mayan faeries enjoy playing tricks on peasants and household workers by throwing stones or other small trinkets at them from untraceable sources. They are sometimes known to assume the forms of birds when they are not invisible or hiding inside walls, and are nicknamed the 'sorcerors of the walls' because of their magical abilities. Although not evil, they are considered to be unpleasant and mischievous. Ubume - Formed from the lost and grief-stricken souls of women who die in childbirth and were not buried with their children, these grim Japanese ghosts will stalk those who wander through their burial site accompanied by children. They have been known to steal said children or possibly replace them with their own deceased infants, who will gradually kill the living parents through damaging their souls. Ubumetori - Possibly connected with the similarly-named Ubume, these appalling Japanese spirits resemble enormous birds, and fly through the air overnight searching for clothes that have been left to dry on washing lines, smearing them in poisonous blood if they are located. Shortly after the monster has done this, presumably due to a pathogen that the blood carries, the wearer of the clothes will begin convulsing until they die. Ubumetori are also known to snatch children into the night sky. Ucumar - Resembling monstrous hybrids of apes and bears, these Chilean hairy humanoids roam mountainous areas where they eat cabbage-like plants called payo, and emit loud cries like 'uhu uhu'. Despite their herbivorous diet, they are also known to abduct human women for breeding purposes, and some local legends claim that they are supernatural beings lacking souls. The first reported encounter with an Ucumar was in 1549, and the latest was in 2010 when one was allegedly shot and killed. Udug - Animating human corpses and turning them into murderous undead, these vampiric Middle-Eastern demons were used by Mesopotamian deities to punish their followers for not burying their dead properly, and are thought to be related to the Vetala because of their similar corpse-animating abilities. When the corpses are brought to life, they will begin to crave the blood of the living and will be able to attack on completely their own volition. They were seen as neither good nor evil. Uendeunk - Acting both as a rare example of a completely benevolent psychopomp and a protector of children, this Patagonian spirit is known from the Aonikenk folklore of Chile and Argentina, and is known to transport the souls of deceased Aonikenks to face their ancestor figure, known as Elal. It is also known to protect human children from the point that they are born, helping the elders of social groups spread good influence and rounding up children during sunsets to facilitate storytelling. Uenitshikumishiteu - Described by the Innu people of Canada and North America, these dangerous predators resemble oversized and monstrous otters, and are capable of literally swimming through the ground around them, as well as through water and ice. Although they usually hunt seals, they have been known to snatch humans that threaten them or their young. They live in social groups of up to four individuals inside mountains, which function like the dens of beavers with underwater entrances. Ugallū - Originally created by Tiamat as warriors in her horrific war against the new deities, these lion-headed demons were reformed and rehabilitated to act as benevolent guardians. Their image is often inscribed on doors and windows, and they serve to ward off disease and evil spirits, fighting more powerful demons than themselves by hunting in pairs. Ugjuknarpak - Found in the icy rivers and frozen lakes of North America, these predatory rodents are roughly the size of wolves, and enjoy capsizing boats and feeding on the occupants. They have tough skin, and prehensile tails with blades at their ends. These organs are used to snatch humans from boats and shorelines, and then spear them to death. Uhlakanyana - Amoral and violent beings that enjoy making nuisances of themselves, these dwarfish faeries live in caves in South Africa, and are said be capable of creating lightning storms and withstanding most conventional weaponry due to their tough skin. There is a story in which one of them steals the cubs of the first cheetah, thus making her cry and creating the stains on the cheeks of modern cats, before being defeated by a 'man from the sky', likely a helpful ultraterrestrial. Ukobach - Closely related to imps, these demons are in charge of keeping the flames of Hell burning, and are often seen carrying various instruments such as hot pokers. They have small red bodies and long ears, with large glowing eyes. According to French literature, they use the blood of the damned to fuel Hell's fires. U'la'gu - Large enough to carry off human children, these colossal wasps are capable of spawning innumerable smaller insects as a defense mechanism if they are attacked by hunters. They were first mentioned in the mythology of the North American Cherokee, in which it was said that the first individual of the species was killed after being smothered with smoke. Ular Pendek - Often mistaken for logs or fallen trees, these enormous and wide snakes are found in the thick forests of Indonesia, and are thought to be related to the tsuchinoko because of their similar shape. Their bodies are roughly one meter in length, and they seem to have supernatural abilities to escape from almost any prison. Traditional machetes called goloks are the best weapons for killing the constricting serpents. Ular Tedong - Often mistaken for prehistoric sauropod dinosaurs, these enormous reptiles are found in the swamps and lakes of Malaysia, from which they emit frightful booming sounds. Young members of the species have golden scales, but their skin becomes grey when they reach greater ages. They are herbivorous, but are sometimes mistaken for enormous cobras or Nāgas because of the crests on the sides of their necks. Úlfhéðnar - The Norse equivalent of werewolves, these powerful warriors are a higher class of berserker, who wear the pelts of wolves and serve Odin himself. They are capable of shapeshifting into the form of a monstrous hound, and are able to kill enemies with a single strike. However, when the Christian church took over Norse traditions, this class of warrior became stigmatised and outlawed, leading to them living as rogues and mercenaries in today's world. Ulgurstasta - Resembling enormous, hideous maggots, these flesh-eating creatures were created by a mad demigod named Kyuss for the sole purpose of consuming as many humans as possible and converting their remains into undead skeletons under his control. However, as they devour more victims they gain intellect and knowledge from their prey, eventually leading to them changing their motivations from creating more skeletons to increasing their own intelligence by claiming victims. Ultraterrestrial - Known to have dominated Earth's skies with their bizarrely-shaped UFOs since the beginning of human history, these beings are thought to be related to faeries and tricksters, but are more commonly known to assume forms and behaviour closely aligned with the popular culture concept of aliens or 'extraterrestrials', and are thus often mistaken for them. They usually wear skin-tight suits, and are known to carry torch-like weapons capable of paralysing humans that get too close. Ultroloth - Ruling over all other Yugoloths, these faceless demons resemble humanoids with large heads and grey-green skin, and can often be seen wearing ornate cloaks and garments. They are cerebral and reserved in combat, preferring to manipulate other demons into doing their work for them. Despite their power not being much higher than other demons, they are still feared and respected due to their skilful use of ambiguity and secrecy to cover this up. Umber Hulk - Resembling hybrids of gorillas and beetles, these hideous insects live in vast systems of underground tunnels, using their massive claws to burrow through the rock with ease, and defending themselves from harm with their tough exoskeletons, which are as strong as a full plate of chainmail. Despite many assertions that they are dumb brutes, they are actually intelligent enough to set traps for prey, but are also often found enslaved by Mind Flayers. Umdhlebi - Grotesque trees, these plants grow in the dense jungles of Africa, and are said to constantly emit an aura of poison that causes delirium and death to all those that inhale it. Even using the wood of the foul plant as firewood will sicken and poison those who have contact with the smoke produced. It is said that the fruits of the tree are the only effective antidote, and can be obtained by offering an animal sacrifice to the tree. Umi Zatō - Resembling blind priests, these strange faeries are known to live in the sea around Asia, and to enjoy making tapping sounds of the surface of the water using their canes. Although generally harmless, there are some stories of the creatures harassing fishermen until they are lured close enough to capsize the boats. It is not known why they do this, though they can be dissuaded by a polite request not to. Umiama - Mimicking the appearance of divers or swimmers, these shapeshifting Japanese merfolk will come to the surface of the water when their human counterpart descends. They are very rare beings, and any humans that see them are likely to become fatally ill. When the divers resurface, the merfolk will vanish. Umibōzu - These enormous aquatic humanoids are only ever seen from the shoulders up, and will change the water conditions from calm to stormy when they appear. Due to their humanoid body, there is speculation that they are the spirits of drowned monks or priests, though not many people who encounter them live to tell the tale. Unagi Hime - Assuming the forms of beautiful young women, these seductive Japanese shapeshifters resemble eel-like merfolk in their true forms, and live in freshwater ponds and lakes across the country. They are considered to be the guardians of their aquatic locales, and are often said to do battle with other creatures that may seek to live in their ponds. During such occasions, the shapeshifters may seek out human aid, and will drive the human insane if they refuse to help. Undine - Powerful water elementals that are thought to be the ancestors of all merfolk in the folklore presented in ancient European alchemical writings. They are invariably female, and lack a human soul, thus trying to marry a human man in order to enable their descendants to ascend to Heaven. If this man is unfaithful, however, he will die. Ungaikyo - Originally perfectly normal mirrors that were used to scare or trap supernatural beings, these objects eventually build up enough magical energy to come to life themselves, and become tsukumogami. They are capable of transferring their consciousness between reflective surfaces, as well as showing those who look into them the future. Unicorn - Featured heavily in fairytales, though first referred to in Greek natural history, these horned animals resemble donkeys or deer with a single large horn on their forehead. These horns can cure many ailments if ground up into powder, though the creatures will only allow themselves to be captured by human virgins. Uŋȟčéǧila - Appearing as serpentine masses of shadows with fanged mouths, these horrific North American demons are said to resemble bronze-scaled dragons in their true form. Anyone who looks directly at one of the creatures will either go blind or become insane, and will die within four days. They can only be killed if the crystals on their foreheads are damaged. Upland Trout - Literal flying fish, these North American beings are found nesting in the tall trees of Alaska, and are said to have a delicious flavor when cooked, making them a delicacy among local campers. They are sometimes seen to have wing-like fins, but not all individuals have these leading researchers to suggest that this is a genetic variation. In 2006, the body of a beluga whale was found 1000 miles inland in Alaska, possibly that of an upland beluga. Upsweep - Thought to be distantly related to the Bloop, these enormous aquatic animals were discovered when their telltale cries were captured on recording equipment in the Pacific Ocean. Their calls are most audible in the Spring and Autumn, which suggests that this may be their breeding season. The signals have been growing less frequent recently, suggesting that these beings are growing rarer. Upyr - Capable of moving around unharmed in broad daylight, these evil Russian vampires are incredibly bloodthirsty, and will feed on the children of a family before preying on the adults. They eat the hearts of larger human victims, and can only be killed by being soaked in holy water and stabbed once with a wooden stake. Stabbing them twice will bring them back to life for an unknown reason. Uraeus - Originally said to have represented the goddess Wadjet in ancient Egyptian art and symbolism, these mighty golden serpents resemble cobras with gem-encrusted skin. They are highly venomous and deadly to their prey, and are often used in the death masks of pharaohs because of this obvious power that they have over other creatures. A good example of this would be the mask of Tutankhamen himself. Urayuli - Hairy forest spirits, these creatures are found in Alaska, and have long arms that trail along the ground below their ankles, and luminescent eyes that can mesmerize those who look at them for prolonged periods of time. They are known to kidnap people who become lost in the woods, and transform them into others of their species through unknown means. As a result, they are often used by parents to discourage their children from entering the forest alone. Urco - Found in the Spanish community of Galicia and other areas on the Northwest Peninsula of Spain, these monstrous hellhound-like creatures appear as horned dogs with either black or white fur, and heavy chains dragging behind them. At night, they will emerge from the sea while emitting unearthly howls, eventually making their ways to the houses of those who are destined to die in the near future. Local dogs and hounds will congregate around the beasts, joining them in howling loudly. Uridimmu - Spawned by Tiamat according to Middle-Eastern mythology, these bizarre creatures resemble lions or canines with humanoid faces and limbs, and are said to have been powerful warriors before being defeated by Marduk. They often wield staff-like weapons and wear intricate jewelry, and their images are sometimes depicted on doorways and windows to ward off intrusion from other evil spirits. Urisk - Roaming the riverbanks of Scotland and Britain, these solitary faeries resemble the European satyrs, but share none of their lusty behavior traits. In fact, the creatures would like nothing more than to maintain a peaceful and friendly conversation with passing humans, though are often shunned because of their appearance. Urmahlullu - Spoken of in Babylonian and Mesopotamian tradition, these proud beings essentially resemble a lion with the torso of a human. Because of their regal and prideful nature, they are naturally inclined towards belief in a higher power, and were thus often drafted into ancient Mesopotamian cults. Uruku - Manipulative vampiric spirits created when a person's proper burial rites are interfered with, these evil ghosts are known from the Mesopotamian folklore of the Middle East, and resemble transparent and monstrous versions of their living selves. They spread disease among human populations and are also known to act as dark muses, whispering to vulnerable humans and inspiring directionless criminal behaviour. Some have suggested they are related to the Utukku due to their similar names. Ushi-Oni - These demonic oxen are found near water in Western Japan, and appear as shapeshifting hybrids of a cow and a spider. They will lurk around coastlines, and hunt prey that wander too close to their territory. They produce highly virulent venom, with which they kill their victims. USO - Moving incredibly fast, these inexplicable objects are said to be ultraterrestrial or alien vehicles that have adapted to move around beneath the surface of the world's oceans. They have been being reported for centuries, sometimes as physical objects and sometimes just as 'fireballs'. In modern times, there seems to be some evidence that Google Earth has captured some kind of a base for these crafts on camera beneath Malibu. Útburður - Born from the lonely souls of children who became lost or separated from their parents, these raven-like Icelandic ghosts take on a feathery coat of the same color of the clothes that they wore when they died. They will eventually fly back to their parents, and so should be followed when they are seen. Doing this will lead to the location of their lost parents and thus the children's souls will be at peace. Uthra - Referred to in Gnostic traditions, these angels are considered to be the lowest-ranked of their kind, and are basically mindless drones used by deities to communicate with each-other and the mortal world. They only exist for a set period of time, after which they are destroyed and replaced by other members of their kind. Groups of these beings are often seen surrounding minor Gnostic gods, and performing menial tasks in the barracks of Heaven. Utlunta - Sometimes referred to as spearfingers, these terrifying North American faeries have long fingers with which they impale young human victims and eat their livers. They are capable of shapeshifting, though usually take on the forms of hags or the loved ones of their victims. Apparently, the wounds that the creatures inflict are painless, and the victims will only die a few days after having their livers removed. Utsuro-Bune - First witnessed after a boat-like UFO washed ashore on the coast of Eastern Japan in 1803, this ultraterrestrial resembled a beautiful young woman, but was unable to communicate in Japanese with the fishermen that pulled her vessel to the shore, and was described as wearing strange clothes with white extensions on her otherwise-red hair. She held a rectangular box that she would not part with no matter how kindly anyone asked. Her UFO was covered in symbols of an unknown language, and she was eventually put back in the vessel and allowed to drift back out to sea. Utukku - Appearing as animal-like humanoids, often with the features of lions or bulls, these Middle-Eastern ghosts are capable of both good and evil deeds, and are sometimes summoned by magic users. They are not recognised as demons or pagan deities, but still demand sacrifices of the liver and blood from slaughtered animals. It is thought that they were originally created by the Annunaki. Uwabami - Hideous Japanese serpents, these monsters are best known for their extreme gluttony and ability to distend their jaws to eat prey much larger than themselves. They are capable of shapeshifting into a human form in order to blend in with local populations. Despite their deadly hunting strategies, they are very fond of alcohol and can easily be outwitted by clever humans. Vættir - Also known as 'Wights', these diverse nature elementals are heavily featured in Norse mythology, and are thought to include dwarves and some deities among their ranks, and these different families are known to interbreed with each other. They all act as fearsome guardians over specific characteristics of the land around them, and they are known under many different names depending on which element of nature they inhabit. Vai-Mahse - Usually appearing as diminutive humanoid figures covered in plants and glowing liquid, these South American faeries are referred to as 'the masters of animals' because of their ability to control flora and fauna in their vicinity. They can shapeshift with ease, and usually assume the forms of enormous leopards or other predators to protect their forest habitat. Valac - Appearing as young children with angelic wings riding upon two-headed dragons, these strange French demons are said to be in charge of inflicting human victims with greed and obsession. They are capable of sensing riches or treasures in their vicinity, and are automatically drawn to these, compulsively compelled to collect or steal them. Valefar - Usually appearing as lions with the heads of donkeys, these monstrous demons are spoken of in the folklore and witchcraft of medieval Europe, and are responsible for tempting people to steal things. They are capable of controlling the minds of thieves and robbers, and making such people work together in large groups where they would not usually. It takes a demon to make honor among thieves. Valkyrie - These Norse angels are tasked with collecting soldiers who have died on the battlefield and deciding whether they should live on or be escorted to Valhalla. All members of this race are female, and they reproduce asexually using magic. If they are attacked whilst on Earth, they have the ability to create doubt, fear and confusion in their aggressors. Valravn - Doomed to scavenge the corpses of generals and kings who fall in great battles, these Danish creatures represent the restless souls of humans who were cursed in life. They resemble monstrous hybrids of wolves and ravens, and can only revert back into their human form if they consume the blood of a child. Many become so desperate for this that they resort to murder and kidnapping. Vampir - Hideous and bloated, these German undead monstrosities are often confused with traditional vampires because of their extremely similar names, and are born from humans who were either dark magic users or heretics in life. They cause drought and illness in human populations, and are known to kill cattle and livestock. The best way to kill one of them is by stabbing them through the heart with a wooden stake made from mountain ash, but they must be killed in only one blow. Vampire - These undead beasts have been spoken of in innumerable different cultures for centuries, and resemble humanoids with large fangs and completely black eyes. They feed on human blood, but are also capable of transforming humans into other vampires using blood contact. They have a notable dislike of sunlight, and can be killed using either decapitation or a similar disconnection of the brain. Van Meter Monster - After first appearing on this planet in 1903, these winged aliens have since taken up residence here in small numbers. They are capable of firing concussive beams from the large glowing sack on their forehead, as well as flying at amazing speeds. Because of their appearance, some people speculate that they are related to pterosaurs, but are really ultraterrestrials. Vānara - Created by the Hindu deity known as Brahma, these intelligent beings resemble humanoid monkeys, and are similar to humans in the structure of their societies, carrying out respectful burial rituals and religious consecrations, but are also known to have supernatural leaping abilities and long tails. They dwell in large groups throughout mountainous forested areas, and have been known to assemble into great armies to aid local deities. Only the males of the species have tails. Despite often being childish and brutally honest, they are kind and honourable. The deity known as Hanuman is believed to be the most powerful member of their species. Vānara - Mentioned in Hindu lore, these hairy humanoids live in temperate forests across Asian countries, and are said to be powerful magic users and shapeshifters. They wear ornate clothing and live in advanced buildings, though also have simian body hair and long tails with which they can manipulate their environment. It is said that they were created by deity-human hybridization in ancient times. Vanishing Hitchhiker - These ghosts are not often malevolent, and will stand by the side of roads and ask to be picked up. If someone does this, the ghost will enter their car and declare that they can 'never go home' before vanishing. This is not often a malevolent act, though can result in a minor haunting. Vântoase - Dwelling in deep forests and around isolated lakes, these hostile Romanian elementals represent wind and air, and can produce powerful dust storms and gales to attack their victims. They often target young children, are resemble ethereal human women. The only protection against an attack from these monsters is a mysterious plant known as 'grass of the wind'. Vardøger - Appearing in locations that their hosts are yet to visit, and mimicking their mannerisms and appearance perfectly, these unnerving Scandinavian shapeshifters are often the cause of déjà vu in those around them. Their actions often result in a person being recognized to have previously visited a place that they actually never have. Vargr - Resembling massive wolves with almost ursine physiques, these creatures are surprisingly intelligent, and are thought to be relatives of the fenrir. They are found in naturally Scandinavian countries, though have been exported to other areas by orc populations. Vǎrkolak - According to Slavic or Romanian folklore, these undead monsters are born when dead werewolves are buried improperly, and thus their violent spirit reanimates their rotting corpse. They are still covered in hair, and are capable of producing epidemics of disease in their surrounding communities. As the monsters age, their bodies swell and will eventually become large and bloated. Vasitri - Found in the jungles of Venezuela, these wild and hairy humanoids are thought to be descended from prehistoric humans such as erectus or neanderthalensis. They are regarded as evil and savage by local populations of modern humans, and are said to craft spears and other primitive weapons with which they kill their prey. Frighteningly, they are sometimes said to eat human flesh and to carry off human women for breeding. Vatea - Moving in small pods through the waters around Australia and Polynesia, these peculiar merfolk resemble hybrids of humanoids and dolphins, and are sometimes regarded as deities in the local mythology. They enjoy eating coconuts, using their long beaks to crack open the hard shells and their slender limbs to clasp the fruits from overhanging trees. Vatnagedda - Possessing corrosive venom so strong that it can melt the rocks that it comes into contact with, these awful Icelandic fish are said to resemble pikes with yellow-blue bodies and hair like fins. It can be caught by using a golden ring as bait, and can then only be touched using gloves made from human skin, or else instant death will result from contact with the fish. Vazila - Mentioned in Russian and Slavic folklore, these rare faeries are found in stables and farms, where they will look after the horses. In their true forms, they resemble small humanoids with vaguely equine features, and will wear handmade clothes fashioned from saddles and stirrups. As with all household beings, they will become devious and malevolent if they are annoyed, and will let the horses out of their stables in the middle of the night. Vazimba - Diminutive and secretive, these strange pygmies are believed to have inhabited Madagascar long before modern humans settled on the island, and to have had a primitive culture, involving basic agriculture and farming, as well as the creation of weapons from clay. However, as more technologically-advanced humans arrived on the island, the Vazimba were completely wiped out, and now haunt the rocks and ravines of the island as vengeful ghosts, unable to touch salted items. Vědmák - Also known as 'witchers' due to the popularity of modern fantasy literature, these Slavic magic users are commonly associated with witches, but have more positive qualities than the aforementioned demonic enchanters. They can heal animals and humans, and sometimes protect local villages from dark influences. However, they can also spoil harvests and kill livestock if they are angered, and are known to have powerful shapeshifting abilities. Vegetable Lamb - Sometimes thought to be the first growth stage of the legendary barometz, these animals resemble sheep, and sprout from a plant that has melon-like fruits. They will be attached to their plants by a long stem, and will die when this stem is broken. This often happens when the nearby vegetation has been eaten and their food source has been eliminated. Vejigante - Featuring heavily in a Christian festival celebrated across Puerto Rico, these tricky demons have come to represent the victory of a patron saint over the local pagan tribes, who were then regarded as barbaric. They have faces that resemble carved coconuts, and their bodies often feature many colors and extravagant horns, as well as wide wings and sharp claws. Their presence is often used to threaten people into converting to Christianity or going to church. Velachif - Found near the area of Mexico City that was once Tenochtitlan, this amphibious serpent is thought to be related to the Mbói Tu'ĩ due to their extremely similar appearance, seeing as they both resemble large snakes with rounded heads and parrot-like beaks. The Velachif is also said to have a mostly red body and an lethally venomous bite, killing humans with a single bite. Currently, little else is known about the dragon-like reptiles. Veldenz Lion - Similar to other big cats commonly depicted in European heraldic artwork, these curiously blue creatures are known only from some specific German locales, and are usually used to represent the military power of said regions. They are highly uncommon nowadays, though most reports of the creatures are simply filed under other out-of-place big cats. Vėlė - Usually appearing as transparent and faded apparitions of their former living selves, these Lithuanian ghosts wander aimlessly among the living and are usually found in secluded areas such as graveyards and forests. Although they lose most of their individuality after dying, they are still capable of feeling sadness and a sense of loss, and so their living relatives usually leave offerings of food at their graves. Eventually, they will pass on to the Afterlife naturally. Velha-Do-Peito-Só - Appearing as wizened old women with ragged clothes and single, large breasts, these Portuguese ghosts manifest on the sides of roads, and will tackle male travelers to the ground and force them to suckle from their breasts. The bizarre and frightening demons will twist the ears of their victims and punch them until they agreed to drink from their breasts. It is not known if the milk has any negative effects on the health of the victims. Vengeful Spirit - Some of the most common ghosts, these beings are created when someone dies with a deep desire for revenge, or simply a feeling that they were wronged in life. They will hunt down those with which they have a grudge, though will start to lose their ability to empathise as their time in our plane of existence lengthens. This will result in them directing their wrath at those who get in their way, rather than just people who have actually done something wrong. Ventolín - Known from the mythology of Spain and Europe, these green-winged angels live deep within the choppy seas and oceans, and are known to emerge from the waters to help tired fishermen. They are capable of creating gusts of wind to enable previously stationary ships to sail, and are often recorded to draw large shoals of fish close to themselves to allow fishermen to catch them. Venus - Spoken of in the mythology and religion of ancient Roman society, this European deity was apparently born from sea foam, and represents sexual intercourse and love. Her aquatic nature is used to put out conflicts and vices as if they were fire, and she is said to embody calmness and charm in the Roman pantheon. She is often confused with Aphrodite because of their similar origins and behavior. Venusian - Adapted for the extremely harsh conditions of their alien home planet, these stocky but beautiful beings are future descendants of humans similar to Nordics. They live mostly in subterranean cities and pyramid structures, though are also capable of making their bodies intangible to withstand the incredibly hot and stormy conditions on the surface of Venus. Veo - Resembling a pangolin the size of a horse, these creatures are found in the thick forests and isolated mountains of Indonesia. It feeds on ants and termites, which it extracts from their burrows using its long and dexterous tongue. There is evidence that a large prehistoric pangolin lived nearby, and so there are theories that this animal represents a relict species. Vepar - Ruling 29 legions of demons and governing over the world's waters, this Goetic demon is described as resembling one of the merfolk, and is known to guide ships carrying ammunition and weapons through the oceans, as well as to be capable of making the sea rough and stormy, and conjuring powerful illusions if requested to do so by a dark magic user. She is also able to kill men within three days by creating rotting sores and wounds with maggots in them, but can also cure peope instantly. Verbouc - Found in Belgium and Germany, these Satanic humanoids resemble satyrs or hybrids of humans and goats, and often appear to isolated villagers after they have suffered through great disasters or tragedies such as fires or raids on their lands. They will offer them bets and deals with gold as the prize, but if they lose they will be dragged to Hell. It is for this reason that the caprine shapeshifters are believed to act as emissaries of Satan. Veritas - Feeding on human honesty, these strange Roman creatures are thought to be descendants of the goddess of truth. They have an insatiable desire to know the truth, and have the ability to induce complete honesty in people. Although this might seem a good thing, it can drive people to commit suicide, and the creatures then feed on these people as sacrifices. Vetala - Armed with supernaturally enhanced senses, these Indian creatures are capable of inhabiting human corpses and turning them into vampire-like creatures which do not decay. They can be found in graveyards and burial chambers, and have a strong venom that can paralyze human prey. They are said to hang upside down from trees during the day, sleeping like bats. Vetehinen - Sometimes referred to as aquatic variants of ghosts, these bearded merfolk are found in the seas and lakes around Finland, and are often prayed to and worshipped by fishermen who believe that they bring good fortune. However, there are also some stories about the creatures being the souls of drowned humans, and attempting to lure others to a watery grave. Victoricus - Thought by some to represent a completely forgotten band of unorthodox angels, these bizarre beings were witnessed in a heavenly vision be held by Saint Patrick. Apparently their job was once to teach the will of the Judaeo-Christian God to leaders of large groups of people, such as politicians. Vidyadhara - Appearing in various religious sources from India and Asia, these airy faeries are known to amass in groups to watch human prowess and combat, and are often seen to enjoy dancing or singing. They are known to leave ornate patterns of flowers on abandoned battlegrounds, and are usually found in mountains and other areas that are secluded and inhabited by powerful Hindu deities, that they attend and support in an angelic fashion. Vietnamese Night Flyer - Resembling nude female humanoids with slightly hairy black skin and bat-like wings, these bizarre winged creatures were first witnessed in 1969 by a group of US soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War, and are said to glow bright green despite having no obvious source for their luminescence. The witnesses claimed that they could not hear the wingbeats of the creature when it was close to them, but that the sound returned to the area once it moved away. Vila - Similar to sylphs, these airy faeries are known from Russia and Poland, and often appear as beautiful human women wrapped in cloud-like garments, with flowing hair and hypnotic voices. They enjoy bartering with and helping humans during battle, though will ferociously kill any person who lies to or tricks them. It is said that they will die if their hair is cut off. Vilas-Boas Abductor - Kidnapping a Brazilian farmer by the name Antônio Vilas-Boas of from one of his fields in 1957 after landing their tripodal UFO on his property, these ultraterrestrials resemble 5ft tall humanoids, and communicate between each other by barking. The aliens that Vilas-Boas first encountered wore grey coveralls with helmets, but he was later led into a room with a naked female ultraterrestrial, whom he was made to have intercourse with. He later contracted radiation sickness. Vilkacis - Usually passive or benevolent towards humans, these Lithuanian werewolves shapeshift into their animal forms after performing a specific dark magic ritual under the light of the full moon. They live in tightly-knit family groups, and will hunt and kill livestock and game to feed the other members of their packs. Xenophobic legends suggested that German invaders were members of this species. Vīrabhadra - Acting as a hunter of evil and untrustworthy gods, this monstrous deity is said to have been spawned from the rage and hatred of the god Shiva in ancient Hindu mythology. It has multiple arms, which all wield different deadly weapons, and wears a necklace fashioned from the heads of its victims. Apparently, it can only be destroyed by the self-sacrifice of another deity. Virginia Beehive Humanoid - According to the research done by Derek Hayes through a call-in podcast, this completely unique humanoid was observed in the woods of North America by two young children in the mid-1990s as they were traversing the forest in search of somewhere to play. They were both walking down a driveway through the woods, before they encountered the terrifying creature sitting on a log in front of them. It was between 7-8ft tall, and appeared to be made of beehive paper. Virginia Trollic - First witnessed in their namesake North American state during 1968, this diminutive and mischievous primates resemble small hairy humanoids covered in either red or white fur, and have paws that resemble cloven hooves. They seem to have limited supernatural abilities, being capable of rendering witnesses unable to speak for short periods, and are known to emit frightening laughing sounds. Also known as 'red devils', they are thought to be related to devil monkeys. Virra Birron - Sometimes also referred to as 'Willy-Willy', these foul tempered air elementals are found in the Outback of Australia, and vent their frustration by assuming the forms of tornadoes and ripping trees from the ground, or otherwise ravaging landscapes. However, they are also sometimes known to come onto the ground and shapeshift into human form, so that they may live among local populations. A common childhood story from the region speaks of an ant's encounter with a Virra Birron. Virtue - Green-winged angels, these are the beings through which miracles and heavenly signs are transmitted onto Earth. They are associated with plants and nature, and are sometimes said to aid the Judaeo-Christian God in keeping faeries and other elemental beings under control. It is said that their name comes from the overbearing feelings of exaltation and joy that they bring. Vis - Prowling the skies and dark forests of Oceania, these brutal vampires have glowing claws that act like blades, and are used by the creatures to slit the throats and remove the eyes of their victims in order to feed on their blood and flesh. They are mostly nocturnal, and have the ability to fly at great speed despite not having wings. Visha Kanya - Although they may appear incredibly physically similar to elves or nymphs, these Indian beings have bodily fluids which are incredibly poisonous to humans. They are said to be able to kill with a touch, and their eyes resemble those of snakes when in their true forms. Because of their lethal abilities, they are often employed as mercenaries or hitmen. Vishap - Colossal winged serpentine dragons, these Middle-Eastern creatures are sometimes said to be similar to the leviathans of Biblical lore, and is considered to be a symbol of water and wealth. However, there are also tales of the creatures causing eclipses, and stealing human children in order to replace them with their own shapeshifting offspring. Vision Serpent - Either appearing as creatures similar to Nāgas, or simply as humanoids emerging from the jaws of mighty serpents, these powerful Central American spirits usually present themselves as either ancestors of the native populace or deities wielding spiritual wisdom. They were often summoned by members of the traditional Mayan mythology using a specific bloodletting ritual, in which a pillar of smoke is produced and the being manifests by projecting its image onto it. Vitória-Régia - According to a legend passed around among the native populations of the areas around the South American Amazon River, this ghostly water spirit was born when a young girl named Naia became obsessed with the idea that she could turn herself into a star if she could touch the Moon. One night, she saw the Moon's reflection in the river and drowned trying to touch it. The Moon took pity on her, and transformed her into a water lily-like nymph with an inebriating perfume. Vodni Panny - Closely related to Rusalkas, these tall and melancholy nymphs are described as feminine humanoids clad in translucent greenish robes, and are found throughout Celtic rivers in which they dwell in beautiful crystalline castles with gravel pathways made up of pieces of gold and silver. They will sit in trees and sing in a siren-like fashion with the intention of luring young men towards them. During the evenings, the faeries sometimes emerge from the water to enjoy human festivals. Vodyanik - Highly unpredictable and fickle, these aquatic Russian faeries usually resemble aged humanoids with long green hair and old-fashioned clothing, though have been known to morph into large fish or merfolk. Although they are usually helpful, and do not mind humans using their water for fishing or bathing, they are also known to seek out 'brides', creating undead women by drowning and draining the blood of innocents. Vodyanoi - With faces like those of frogs, these hideous merfolk are found in deep rivers and lakes across Russia, and are known to cause otherwise unexplainable drownings. They are often seen basking on logs and driftwood, making loud and noticeable splashes with their tails. When angered, they have been known to break dams and cause floods, suggesting that they possess at least some degree of magical ability. Voidwraith - Formed from slain air elementals, these gaseous undead literally feed on the breath of the living, and share an extreme hatred of living beings with their namesake ghostly beings. They resemble clouds of black smoke with two glowing red eyes, and are observed to produce spaces of complete vacuum around their bodies, pulling the air in the nearby area into their cloudy forms. Because of their extreme speed and shadowy bodies, they can easily ambush victims in dark areas. Volkolak - Featured in Slavic mythology, and found in the dark forests of Europe, these mighty shapeshifters are often warlocks who have used skinwalker-like magic to transform themselves into ursine monsters. Warlocks will usually use this form to gain power, though the transformations will often become uncontrollable over time. Voonith - Amphibious nocturnal predators dwelling in swamplands and remote coastlines, these whimsical six-legged reptilians are thought to have originally come from the Dream Realm but to have somehow migrated across to our world, where they enjoy telling each-other dark stories and bizarre poems about Earthly animals meeting grisly and often ironic fates. They do not often choose to communicate with other creatures despite their intelligence, leading to misconceptions of non-sentience. Vörðr - According to Norse tradition, these glowing beings follow the progress of the human soul from its birth to its death, and usually appear either as burning balls of light or incandescent humanoids to those with senses advanced enough to perceive them. They usually become attached to objects such as trees after their human counterpart dies, but they have sometimes been known to change into beings akin to wrathful ghosts. Voronezh Giant - Emerging from a large red UFO that landed in their namesake Russian locale on September 27, 1989, these 9ft-tall ultraterrestrials were seen by a group of children, who described them as wearing silver jumpsuits and as having three eyes on their visor-like heads. The aliens were accompanied by a small robot, and they surveyed the terrain around them before disappearing, only to reappear later and shoot a beam-like weapon at one of the children, causing him to vanish and reappear after the UFO took off. Traces of caesium were found at the landing site. Vortex - Unobservable to the naked eye, these bizarre ghostly manifestations appear in certain photographs, and resemble cigar-shaped objects surrounded by thread-like structures, giving the impression that they are spinning in mid-air. They are normally found in houses plagued by larger-scale hauntings, and their presence will be signified by sudden drops in temperature in the surrounding area. There is debate as to if they are entities or simply portals used by other beings to enter our world. Vouivre - Capable of alternating its form between a monstrous serpent and a beautiful human woman, this French dragon is found near rivers, and is often confused with the wyvern due to its similar name. It is said that it carries a large gem on its forehead, which it protects ferociously, producing bursts of flames or sparks from its mouth to discourage thieves. Vrikshaka - Capable of making trees and plants bloom with nothing more than touches of their hands or feet, these beautiful humanoid nature spirits are known from the Hindu lore of India, and are thought to be closely related to dryads or nymphs because of their voluptuous feminine forms. They can be attached to single trees or to entire forests, bringing fertility to all forms of nature with which they come into contact. Hindu devotees regard seeing them as beneficial, representing abundance. Vril-Ya - First discovered living in vast underground societies beneath Britain in 1871, these strange beings are thought to be the relic remains of an ancient group of humans who developed advanced technology. When they predicted a potential apocalypse, they fled underground and began to use a powerful substance called Vril, which could provide magic-like abilities if harnessed. Their wings are mechanical rather than biological. Vritra - Capable of going toe-to-toe with some of the most powerful pagan gods, these mighty dragon hybrids are known from the mythology of the Hindu religion. They are said to be the demonic personification of drought, and to resemble either a monstrous dragon or an ogre-like being. It is recorded that the first and most powerful of the monsters was killed by Indra. Vrock - Resembling a cross between a man and a gigantic vulture, these hideous demons are constantly surrounded by a thick cloud of supernatural spores that can enslave those who breathe them in. They are capable of flight using their mighty wings, and can deafen aggressors using hideous shrieks. Strangely, they are often seen practicing dance-like rituals that creates a powerful dark magic residue in the vicinity. Their existence was first discovered in modern fantasy literature. Vrykolakas - Spoken of in Greek mythology, these powerful vampires are formed when a person who lived a squalid and sinful life is buried in unconsecrated ground. They are known to knock on the doors of houses and list everyone dwelling there, and the person who opens the door will die and become another vrykolakas a few days later. In order to kill them, their bodies must be staked back into their coffin, though this must be done on a Saturday for an unknown reason. Vrykolakas - These undead atrocities are born from corpses given an unconsecrated burial, and will either haunt their graveyard or the house in which they lived before they died. They will drain the blood from a sleeping person, and must be killed by staking their body back down into their coffin. Vudaş - Hunting and killing those who pollute and desecrate lakes and ponds across Turkey and neighboring regions, these deadly faeries usually appear as hideous frog-like humanoids with long beards and sharp claws. They are sometimes referred to as 'fathers of the water', and are appeased by surrounding human populations with gifts of bread and other baked foods. Wabash River Valley Tripod - Sighted in its namesake North American locale after a string of strange aerial light and UFO reports in 1972, this strange ultraterrestrial creature resembles a classic Grey alien with a disproportionately large head and pink eyes, as well as three muscular legs. Its reported behavior of scratching at the doors and windows of witnesses, as well as its location and its hopping gait suggest a relationship to the Enfield Horror. Wadjet - Resembling humanoid cobras with massive feathered wings, these shapeshifting creatures were represented as protector gods in ancient Egyptian culture. Although they were named in this African nation, they are known to exist in small populations in Greece and South America. Wag by the Way - Appearing as humanoid cats, these rare Welsh faeries are well-known for welcoming themselves into the homes of humans, and then scratching or attacking the occupants if they don't accept their presence. However, they have also been known to treat their hosts with borderline affection if they are respected and left alone. If they are annoyed, they will wag their long and feline tails. Wagyl - Held to be responsible for the creation of rivers and lakes in Australian Aboriginal mythology, these vibrantly-colored serpents are thought to be the delegated protectors of bodies of water and the flora and fauna that grow around them. They are sometimes channeled and communicated with by Aboriginal tribal elders, whom they entrust to keep their rivers sacred and protect their nesting sites. Some traditions state that they live beneath deep lagoons and watering-holes. Waheela - Found in Alaska and other Northwest American territories, these canids appear as heavily built wolves with thick pelts of white fur. They are solitary animals, and have widely spaced toes for moving effectively through snow. They were featured in Native American myths as evil spirits, allegedly pulling the heads off their victims. Wahwee - Dwelling in deep lakes and rivers across Australia, these monstrous amphibians are thought to be closely related to the Whowie, and are roughly 30ft long with three legs on either side of their serpentine bodies. They are ambush predators, and are known to creep into human camps while their occupants are sleeping and devour everyone and everything there. Some have suggested that they may be demonic creatures, seeing as they can create floods and torrential rains in their vicinity. Waira - Guarding shrines and temples across Asia, these Japanese creatures resemble large cows with small wings and scythe-like talons on their forelimbs. They are opportunistic predators that live in mountainous areas, and use their long claws to dig up insects and rodents to eat, but will not hesitate to kill and devour human intruders on their territories. Waitoreke - To be found in New Zealand, this small cryptid has no supernatural properties, and resembles a hybrid of an otter and a beaver in shape. It is said that the ancient Maori people used to keep these animals as pets, but they no longer show signs of domestication. Wakandagi - Serpentine aquatic monsters exclusively found in the Missouri River of North America, these enormous amphibians have hoofed limbs and large antlers atop their heads, and are known to be extremely territorial. They only emerge from their watery habitat when the ground is shrouded in mist, and are capable of controlling the water itself and shaping it into explosive spheres. The only way to harm a Wakandagi is by deflecting the sphere back at it. Wakíŋyaŋ - Mentioned in the folklore of the Lakota tribe of North America, these creatures are named after the local term for 'thunder', and are often contacted through dreams by the clown-like heyókȟa, providing the latter with a ceremonial role in the Lakota culture and respect among the people around them. The heyókȟa are taught to burn the wood of the cedar tree to protect themselves from thunder and lightning, since the stormy elementals respect and will not harm the tree. Waldgeist - Believed by ancient German pagans to be the guardians and custodians of local forests, these bearded faeries are known to foretell the future, and to play pranks on those around them. Despite this, they are also capable of bringing good fortune to those that are kind to them, and can grant wishes. Walichu - Mentioned in the folklore of Mexico and South America, these malicious elementals are known to cause extreme misfortune and bring disease to the people around them if they are not worshipped as deities. Offerings of animals are sometimes made in front of natural structures that the Walichus have claimed. In cases where Walichus are threatening to cause high losses of life, local villages have been known to act out battles between humans and Walichus in an attempt to scare the latter. Walking Fir Cone - First encountered by a single witness in 1954, these Kentish mammals are thought to be related to pangolins because of their distinctive armored shape. Despite the intrigue generated by the initial report, the British creatures have not been investigated since for unknown reasons. The lack of more recent sightings might suggest that the beasts are now endangered or extinct. Walking Sam - Causing strings of sudden and devastating suicides in its vicinity, this terrifying North American demon resembles a spindly being with a top hat, and the corpses of its victims draped over its arms. Its evil influence is capable of spreading through social media, with its victims encouraging others to copy them. It whispers in the ears of its victims, which are mostly children or vulnerable adults isolated from their communities. Wampus Beast - These felines have 6 legs, and were first spoken of in Native American myths in which they were referred as a woman who was cursed after intruding on a ritual. Now, they have grown into a large population, and can be found in the woodlands of both North America and Canada. There is some speculation that there are some individuals of this species living in the sewers of American cities. Wanblee - Resembling eagle-like humanoids with bright yellow feathers, these North American faeries are thought to have been born from the unison of an enchanted eagle and the last survivor of a legendary flood. The descendants of this mythological coupling are to be found in the Sioux area of America, and are known to rely mostly on smell when hunting prey. Because of this, extremely strong odors can cause them to become unwell. Wandjina - When they first landed in ancient Australia, these ultraterrestrial alien beings were regarded as creator deities, and supposedly responsible for the guidance of the Aboriginal culture. They were said to have taught these people how to survive, though also to have bought punishment in the form of bad weather. Their spaceships are still commonly seen today, though they are often mistaken for clouds. Wani - Japanese sea dragons, these monsters are roughly 14 meters in length and are considered emissaries of wrathful deities. They are said to be distant aquatic relatives of Asian lung dragons, and are often mistaken for either sharks or crocodiles. The creatures are amazingly newly-described in the context of dragons, and were first written about in 680CE. Waniguchi - Originally circular bronze bells that are used in traditional Japanese temples and shrines, these tsukumogami take on crocodile-like bodies and develop powerful fangs once they reach a certain age. The bells act as the creatures' heads, opening and closing just like the jaws of real crocodiles. They are usually protective of their churches and shrines, but will attack any intruders viciously. Wanyūdō - Appearing as burning wheel with the tormented face of a man, these hideous Japanese demons patrol crossroads and areas in which the boundaries between Hell and Earth are weak. They will terrify all those who look at them, and are known to steal the souls of victims that come too close. There is talk that they represent the tortured soul of an ancient dictator who used to tie his captives to burning wheels. Wapaloosie - Serpentine mammals, these tiny North American critters resemble squirrels with elongated bodies and the feet and legs of a woodpecker, and sometimes have small spines on their tails. They feed only on mushrooms that grow on the stalks of trees, and will continue to attempt to climb trees ever after their deaths. There is a story about a lumberjack who made gloves out of the skin of one of these creatures, only for the undead gloves to begin climbing trees on their own accord. Waraishishi - Formed from the costume used in a traditional Chinese lion dance, these tsukumogami behave as if they were actual feline predators, and stalk old and abandoned areas. They get their name from their telltale cry of 'shishishishi', which should serve as a warning for potential victims. Warlock - Originally hailing from Old England and Scotland, these magic practitioners are usually born with the ability to channel supernatural energy, as opposed to having to learn it. They all have stark white hair and eyes that glow bright red when they use their magical abilities. Contrary to popular belief, this race features both male and female individuals, and is not always malevolent. Warlock - Sometimes believed to be a synonym for a male witch, these dark magic users are capable of communicating with demons and spirits, and are known from old English and Scottish folklore. Unlike wizards or enchanters, the magic that they use is rarely benign, and they are known to cause sickness and death among human populations in their vicinity. Their name comes from the old English term for 'Oathbreaker' or 'Deceiver'. Washington's Greenskin - Originally derived from hoaxed diaries attributed to George Washington in which the author talks about the founding father being visited by green-skinned ultraterrestrials whom he mistook for a technologically advanced tribe of Native Americans, these wise aliens have since come into a degree of life as tulpas. They are said to have met Washington in what was described as a glowing globe in the woods, which is usually interpreted as a rounded lodge, or perhaps a UFO. Washipi - Found in Argentina and other South American territories occupied by the Toba people, these hairy humanoid faeries have faces like those of monkeys, and stand between 1-3ft tall. They have long fingernails, and are known to dine on honey, cactus fruits and pine nuts, as well as to be capable of fashioning and using tiny hammocks and water jars. Only active during the day, they make sounds like those of other animals and are sometimes said to be related to the orang-pendek. Water Horse - Aquatic mammals, these animals are derived relatives of sirenians and elephants, and are found all across the world, ranging from Europe to North America. They use their long necks to feed on high-up vegetation sources, as well as breathing air without having to haul their heavy bodies out of the water. However, they do sometimes venture onto land in order to mate, and so have retained weak, webbed limbs. Water Lion - These semi-aquatic cats are found in both India and Africa, and are relatives of the prehistoric saber-toothed cats. They are feared by the locals in their habitat, and have often been known to drag livestock and humans alike into the water. Water Ogre - Amphibious monsters, these creatures are found in the lakes and rivers of Britain, and are known to hunt fish as well as walk across the hills and highlands to capture humans and livestock. There are stories of them snatching fishermen from the sides of boats, as well as creating strong currents to upturn the vessels. Water Wraith - Found mostly in Scotland, these beings are thought to be a highly derived evolutionary relative of the more common wraiths, that have evolved to become invisible and intangible. They live in bodies of water, and can travel between them freely, allowing them to attack victims in any source of water. In their true forms, they either look like haggish human women dressed in green, or hideous serpents with a large number of legs. Waterbobbejaan - Reaching heights of up to 6 foot when standing on their hind-legs, these upright primates are found in the jungles and grasslands of South Africa, where they seem to have evolved to mimic the American sasquatch. They resemble baboons in appearance, and have reddish-black fur and appear to be carnivorous. There are stories about the creatures attacking villagers in secluded areas, though these are unconfirmed as of yet. Watermark - The offspring of human men and undine mothers, these beings resemble humans in both appearance and soul, though will often have some distinguishing aquatic characteristic such as blue hair. These markings may sometimes become painful if not submerged in water, and the beings themselves can heal their wounds using submersion. Wati-Kutjara - Always traveling in pairs like the first two individuals of their species, these reptilian humanoids are credited as forming the landscape of the Australian Outback in Dreamtime mythology. They are said to have decided to move across the country to teach primitive tribes how to use magic and shamanism, and sung as they went, somehow bringing animals and vegetation into being with their singing. Wawkalak - Originally humans that were cursed by a powerful demon or even Satan himself, these Russian werewolves resemble hellhounds in their true forms, and are not as violent as people usually perceive them to be. Instead, they will try to fight their carnivorous urges when they are in their monstrous form, but sometimes become too transfixed to the feelings of fear that they generate to resist the urge to kill. Wa-Won-Dee-a-Megw - Truly bizarre spirits said to dwell in trees, stretches of land and bodies of water, these North American beings are described in Abenaki folklore as resembling horned snails in their true form, but are said to be able to shapeshift into reptilian humanoids, snakes or alligators at will. Like unicorns, their horns are prized by hunters because of their medicinal qualities when ground up into a powder. They are sometimes connected to 'horned serpent' symbolism. Wayob - Spreading disease among local human populations, these dark magic users are said to have made a pact with a demon or a fallen angel so that they can transform into bizarre monsters while they sleep. They will either resemble a being the hybrid characteristics of various native animals, or a phantasmal specter resembling a demon or wraith of some kind. Wechuge - Born when a person guilty of breaking cultural taboos such as having photographs taken with flash or eating meat containing fly eggs is possessed by a powerful animal spirit, these bizarre North American shapeshifters resemble enormous wolves with bodies made from ice. They lure people away from their campsites using cunning and pack-hunting tactics, before savagely devouring them. The only way to kill them is by heating their icy bodies for prolongued periods of time. Weewillmekq - Despite appearing and behaving akin to a common lake monster, these slimy North American critters are actually giant invertebrates closely related to leeches. Due to this unique heritage, there is speculation that they may be associated with the creatures that are often seen on the shores of Loch Ness. Some local tribes believe the creatures to the same animals as Kci Athusoss, though this is incorrect. Weïrd Sister - Incredibly powerful dark magic users that were mentioned in the literature of William Shakespeare, these witches are thought to represent further mutated forms of crones. They often move in groups of three, and are capable of both seeing into the future and teleporting at will. Humans that are in prolonged contact with them will slowly be driven murderously insane. Wekufe - Originally imprisoned by a group of powerful pagan gods, these monstrous Chilean demons are known to cause natural disasters and outbreaks of disease wherever they go. They are capable of trapping and enslaving the souls of those who have died recently, and can then use these corrupted ghosts to hurt other people. Because of their dark power, cults have built up around them, with followers kidnapping innocent people as sacrifices. Welsh Flying Serpent - Despite often mistaken for feathered dragons, these peacock-like birds are actually more closely related to pheasants, and were said to be common in the Welsh countryside up until at least the 1800s. They are notorious predators, and are known to hunt and kill chickens in farmyards, as well as sometimes attacking humans if they are provoked or their territory is encroached on. Families of the creatures are often organized akin to a monarchy, with kings and queens. Wendigo - These monsters were once humans that were forced to commit cannibalism under dire circumstances, and so evoked an ancient curse that transformed them into man-eating monsters. They will first appear as emaciated humanoids, though will gradually grow deer-like antlers and skulls, and can be repelled using fire and traps made from Anasazi symbols. Were-Crocodile - Created by evil magic users through the use of a certain charm, these monstrous reptilian shapeshifters are found in the swamps and marshes of Egypt and Africa. They are calculating and lecherous, and enjoy decorating their territories with the skulls of human victims to inspire dread in potential trespassers. Many members of the species are known to assume human form to lead unwary victims deep into the marshes where they will be beyond saving. Were-Eel - Captured in the freezing lakes of Ireland, the first and only member of this bizarre shapeshifting species was placed on display as a natural curiosity. It appeared to have originally been a dark magic user or cursed individual who was given the ability to transform into a growling, aquatic monster. Werejackal - Regarded as cowardly but intelligent, these African shapeshifters are originally magic users who use an enchanted strip of fur or other magical object to transform into slender werewolf-like beings. They are mostly nocturnal, and are capable of inflicted extreme bad fortune and even curses using their chilling howls. Weretiger - Vicious shapeshifting predators, these Asian and Indian creatures are usually the result of dark magic users transforming themselves into feline beasts to menace villages and destroy livestock, though they are sometimes also brought into being by hereditary curses. Although they usually hunt livestock, they have been known to become man-eaters on nothing more than a whim. Werewolf - Resembling massive and vicious wolves with glowing yellow eyes, these monsters will transform from their human form into beasts when exposed to the light of the full moon. Normal humans will be transformed into these beasts if they are bitten or scratched by one of them. They have an aversion to the wolfsbane plant, as well as silver weaponry. Wetucks - Near-constantly shapeshifting, these trickster giants are mentioned in the folklore and mythology of various North American Native tribes, and are often revered as cultural heroes. This suggests that the beings may be benevolent despite the brutality and violence often expressed by their relatives. Whangdoodle - Named after the fictitious monsters from the works of Roald Dahl, this bizarre beast was seen in a small Illinois village around 1972, and resembled a grey creature with big red eyes and three legs. It seems to be closely related to the Enfield Horror, even sharing its behavior of scratching on doors. Some researchers have suggested that it may have been a mistakenly-identified kangaroo. Whintosser - Truly bizarre mammalian predators, these creatures are known to have been common in the woodlands of North America during the 19th and 20th centuries. They are covered in limbs, and have a body with three distinct corners, allowing them to chase prey at any angle. Despite being seemingly immune to bullets and other conventional weaponry, the creatures can be killed by being trapped inside a pipe, where they will try to walk in all directions at the same time and tear themselves apart. Whipfather - Also known as Père Fouettard, this terrifying undead entity is thought to have once been a psychotic innkeeper who robbed and murdered groups of children attempting to get to school. Apparently he was caught doing this by Santa Claus, and was then forced to become the festive entity's companion as punishment. Like the krampus, it whips and punishes naughty children at Christmastime. Whipping Tom - Causing total panic and abject hysteria across the English city of London in 1672, this frightening phantom attacker was known to appear behind lone women and whip them ferociously, before vanishing with supernatural speed. Due to the clearly perverted and highly specific nature of its attacks, some began to attribute a dark magic user to the atrocious crimes, and several suspects were captured. Whiptail Tree Octopus - Related to the endangered Pacific tree octopus, these creatures live in the foliage and canopy of the Olympic National Park. They are often found congregating in pine trees close to fast flowing streams, which they use to distribute their eggs among their habitat to reduce competition. Their spindly limbs and long tail-like structures are used for swinging between branches in a manner similar to that used by gibbons. Whirling Whimpus - North American apes, these monstrous creatures possess the supernatural ability to spin at incredible speeds, and emit a low droning noise when doing so. This noise is designed to appear as if it comes from the trees, and so the potential victims look up, only to be struck and mercilessly killed by the waiting creature. These victims will be pummeled to death, and will be ground up into a syrup-like substance. Whisper - Responsible for the genesis of the traditional image of the vampire, these creatures are actually closer to demons than true vampires in origin. They have the ability to possess people, but mostly keep a low profile as to not be discovered, and it is from this that they garner their titles. They feed on human hearts and blood, though will only do so during periods of solar eclipse. Whisperer - Living in strange pocket dimensions scattered all across the planet, these terrifying faeries are extremely resentful towards all those humans who accidentally enter their domains. Their powerful dark magic often attracts other evil faeries, which delight in leading human prey into the whisperers' territory. These victims will then be fed off, and left as decaying corpses, still stood upright where they died. White Bigfoot - This strange variety of hairy humanoid is often seen in the Pennsylvania area of North America, and is associated with UFO and ultraterrestrial sightings. Due to this connection, there is some speculation that the beast may be a half alien, half sasquatch genetic hybrid. White Death - Also known as Alaskan Tigers, these large feline predators stalk the area around Paxson in North America, and resemble sabre-toothed cats with shaggy white fur and two black stripes on their backs, but are also said to gain one stripe for every human victim they claim. They get their name from their behaviour of using snowstorms as camouflage, attacking humans and livestock alike while visibility is low. Luckily, encounters with the fanged beasts are much rarer nowadays. White River Monster - First seen in North America in 1915, this cryptid is mostly peaceful though will attack if provoked, using large teeth and powerful fins to swim at great speed. Its full body appearance is not known, though it is expected to either resemble a large fish or a manatee. White Rock Lake Goatman - Closely related to the similar creature found in Lake Worth, this hybrid abomination is known to appear to picnickers who choose to stay out on the shores of the lake after dusk, and to throw large amounts of trash and even tyres at them in an attempt to get them to leave. It stands about 7ft tall, and resembles a common goatman with jaundiced, almost green, skin and grotesquely clawed fingers. People sometimes report hearing the loud cries of the goatman in the forest. White Screamer - First menacing a North American man and his family living in an isolated Tennessee cottage by producing high-pitched screams every night to keep them awake, this obscure beast is sometimes posited to be a banshee, but sometimes also said to be a demon or hairy humanoid, perhaps a relative of the sheepsquatch. The man eventually climbed a hill to get a view of the surrounding landscape, only to hear the screams coming from his own cottage and see his family killed by the being. White Shadow Person - Strikingly bright and white, these beings seem to be the antithesis to the far more common shadow people, and those that encounter them will experience strong positive emotions and an inability to speak negatively about the beings. They often appear just after loud booming sounds are heard, and they are sometimes associated with angels or benevolent ghosts. Some have speculated that they are at war with the dark shadow people. White Stork - Said to bring the souls of unborn children to parents via their chimneys, these European beings are actually shapeshifters that constantly exhale a powerful aphrodisiac substance. When in their avian true forms, they will live in caves and marshland areas, though will normally be found in human form in urban areas such as nightclubs. White Stork - Said to bring the souls of unborn children to parents via their chimneys, these European beings are actually shapeshifters that constantly exhale a powerful aphrodisiac substance. When in their avian true forms, they will live in caves and marshland areas, though will normally be found in human form in urban areas such as nightclubs. Whowie - These six legged serpents are found in cave systems underneath Australia, and will rarely creep up onto the surface to feed on livestock or humans who wander too close to their territories. They are very slow in their movement, though can inject a deadly venom through biting their prey. It is said that they were once much more common, though Aboriginals started a large fire in a cave system that wiped out a large portion of their population. Wiccan - Siphoning and channeling a natural source of magic energy, these modern magic users first appeared in England in 1954, and believe themselves to be mediums between our world and another. Unlike other witches, their magic is not drawn from a deity or a demon, but is instead simply gained from the natural environment around them. Their society is usually matriarchal and is deeply varied in their religious beliefs. Wichtelmännchen - Similar to brownies though slightly different in body morphology, these house faeries are found in dusty and abandoned homes in Germany. They are shy and imp-like, and enjoy tidying up their houses when no-one is looking. Unlike brownies, they seem not to have a severely adverse reaction to being angered, though have been known to play tricks and pranks. Wichtlein - Haunting the deep mines in Southern Germany, these destructive faeries usually appear as diminutive humanoids with long beards, and are constantly digging as to collapse the support beams of mines and endanger any humans inside. They certainly warn miners of disasters, like other underground faeries, but these are disasters that they provoke themselves. If any miners manage to survive their attacks, the creatures will follow them home and provoke poltergeist activity in their houses. Wickerman - Animated with the souls of thousands of criminals burnt to death within them, these monstrous constructs were created by ancient British druids as a part of a ceremony. Delinquents or slaves were gathered up and placed inside a wooden effigy, and then set alight to please an ancient deity. It is thought that they were sometimes used as warriors or physical forms by these gods. Wicomico Catman - Encountered in 1980 by four witnesses parked in a Maryland landfill, this bizarre North American hybrid beast is said to resemble a large cat covered in dark hair, with long claws and a face resembling that of a human. The witnesses reported seeing glowing yellow eyes looking at the car, and so returned with some friends to get a better look at the monster, upon which it attacked them, gripping onto the door of their car and leaving deep scratch-marks as they drove away. Wiedergänger - Reanimating after their deaths, these terrifying undead creatures are known to damage the souls of those that they come into contact with, and are often found in the graveyards of Germany and Slavic areas. They are usually the wrathful spirits of those who died as a result of a murder or crime, and can be prevented from leaving their grave by placing a cross into their mouths. Wight - First spoken of in old English texts, there is considerable confusion over the meaning of these creatures' name, seeing as it was originally used to denote a variety of nature elemental but has since become associated with nondescript undead creatures due to modern fantasy literature. In the medieval works of Chaucer, the term 'Wight' was also used to signify a living human, and so it seems that there is no concrete definition for what a wight actually is. Wight - First spoken of in old English texts, these undead creatures are formed from a decaying body still occupied by someone's corrupted soul. As a result, they are fixated on absorbing the souls of others in a vain attempt to fix their own. Wihwin - Resembling kelpies or hippocamps, these Central American equine beasts are usually found in open bodies of water such as oceans and seas, though have been known to shapeshift and roam mountain ranges during the Summer. They hunt nocturnally, and use their enormous fangs and jagged teeth to savage both human and animal prey. Wild Hunt - Once every year, a large group of ghosts and faery huntsman move through the sky, accompanied by a host of pagan gods and vicious hellhounds. This phenomenon is referred to as the Wild Hunt, and is said to occur in European territories such as Britain and Germany. Those who witness it will either gradually succumb to illness, or will end up hunted down and dragged to the faery kingdom. Wilkie - Found in wells and hills to the North of Scotland and in the Orkney Islands, these strange and malevolent faeries demand the local population to pour milk into their subterranean dwellings. If people refuse to give their share of their produce, then their cattle will drop dead and their possessions will be stolen overnight by the malevolent faeries. Willipus-Wallipus - Almost completely forgotten nowadays, this bizarre aquatic troll-like humanoid is thought to have been completely unique, and has the bizarre ability to seamlessly remove the noses of human victims, leading to confusion and hysteria in the small towns which it plagued. Its nonsensical rampage is detailed in a North American children's book, but the first mention of its name was in 1892, suggesting an earlier origin and possibly multiple individuals of the species. Will-o'-the-Wisp - Often seen lingering in swamps or marshes, these glowing orbs are thought to be paranormal in origin. When one approaches one of these beings, they will move away and seemingly attempt to lure the person into the water. Some believe them to be faeries, whereas others consider them to be ghostly manifestations. Willow - Often used as residences by dryads and other tree faeries, these strange plants are also known to have a life of their own, and to sometimes be seen to uproot themselves and go wandering at night. They will follow humans bemusedly, whispering and chattering behind them and then instantly becoming inanimate again when their quarries turn around. Wi-Lo-Gi-Yuk - Feared by local human populations despite their tiny size due to their powerful venom and carnivorous diet, these tiny mammals are found in the undergrowth of Alaska and North America, and will bite large animals through small areas of exposed skin and inject a numbing poison. They will then burrow into the bodies of their prey and feed on their internal organs before leaving the animals to slowly die. Researchers have suggested that they are a recently-evolved species. Windsbraut - With a name literally meaning 'Wind's Bride', these German faeries are usually female but some male specimens have been observed, and are said to be elementals that represent whirlwinds, using this power to steal the produce of cornfields. Windsbrauts can be defeated by throwing a knife into them when they are in the form of a whirlwind, because they are incapable of removing the knife themselves and are left at the mercy of the owner of the knife. They may be dark magic users. Wirry-Cow - Abominable Scottish bovine creatures, these elongated cattle are greatly feared in the local folklore, seeing as they are associated with hobgoblins and other malevolent faeries. They usually live in mucky swamps and bogs, and are well-known for emerging whilst covered in moss and algae, looking terrifying as they play pranks on humans. Witch - Known from various cultures all around the world, these dark magic users are able to use spells and hexes to cause misfortune and harm to others, be this through simple bad luck, or even manipulating the weather. Although they are often depicted as being female, they can be of any gender or ethnicity, and are often known to be followed by familiars and other dark magic-based creatures. Though they are not weak to it like other beings, their magical abilities are weakened by contact with Witchy Wolf - Said to have been brought into being by a group of dark magic users, these North American hellhounds stalk grasslands, and protect the graves of their creators and their ancestors. They are most famous for attacking vehicles in a lovers' lane setting, becoming invisible and only casting their ominous shadows. In their true forms, they resemble semi-skeletal wolves or wolf-dogs. Witherlick - Almost nothing is known about these nebulous North American beasts, seeing as they are only referred to as mysterious predators that prowl around the mountains of Maine and New Hampshire. They are known to have been feared by lumberjack communities, suggesting that they are intimidating and possibly dangerous to humans. There are some indications that they may be feline in nature, and possibly supernatural due to their apparent extreme rarity. Witiko - Prowling the frozen wastelands of North America and Canada during the Winter months, these monsters are said to be coated in impenetrable ice, and to have originated from humans who committed sins such as gluttony or cannibalism. If a human victim looks directly into the creature's eyes, they will become helpless and paralyzed. The creature can only be killed by completely melting its icy body. Witte Wieven - Considered to be the ghosts of wise and benevolent magic users, these Dutch spirits are found in the Netherlands, Belgium and France, and are sometimes thought to be related to the Dames Blanches or other faeries. After their physical deaths, ceremonies are often held to honour them, and they become elf-like spirits that are associated with mist and fog. They either help or hinder travelers depending on the offerings left by their gravesites or other sacred places. Wiwilemek - Lurking in the lakes and rivers of Canada, these monsters resemble large crocodiles with mighty horns on their heads and necks. They are highly resilient to damage, and their scaly hide cannot be pierced by non-magic weapons. It is said that anyone who can remove the horns will be granted magical abilities. Wizard - First mentioned in medieval literature, these practitioners of magic can be male or female, and derive their abilities from experience and education rather than genetics. Sometimes their magical abilities can be bolstered by use of charms and familiars, or possibly through the learning of different spells. Like witches, their power can be dampened through exposure to cold iron. Wodewose - Sometimes referred to as woodland spirits, these creatures are thought to be close relatives of the North American sasquatch, and are found in the folklore of Britain and Scotland. They are described as being covered in hair, and often wearing a loincloth of sorts around their bodies, as well as wielding heavy clubs. Although not classified as technically aggressive, the beings have been known to temporarily kidnap people or play harmless practical jokes on passersby. Wolf - Despite sharing their name with a common predatory canid, these shapeshifters are more closely related to werewolves. They can change their body from that of a human to that of a wolf at will, and will retain their sapience in both forms. Their bites are not contagious, and they are either born from shamanic rituals or have their condition passed down through bloodline. Wolf Woman - Although often said to be related to werewolves, these North American creatures are actually forest-dwelling derivatives of the Greek lamia. They were first recorded in 1971 when a pack of them descended upon an Alabama suburb, prompting police investigation. Unlike other canine humanoids, the creatures have the head and front quarters of human females and the back legs of wolves. Wolfen - Enjoying the terror that their appearance brings to human victims, these highly intelligent canines are thought to have evolved naturally to prey on human populations, and are extremely intelligent. They are known to guard their dead carefully, and to follow and kill anyone who takes their remains. They are named after the antagonists of a fictional novel. Wolfie - Manifesting to the inhabitants of the English Abbey House between 1904 and 1910, this bizarre hybrid spirit resembled a large brown hare with clipped ears, flipper-like front limbs and a long beak much like that of a stork or heron. It was mostly seen by the children of the Lawson family, the residents of the house at the time, but would go onto be spied by other occupants of Abbey House up to 1947, when it was described as a 'tiny doggy'. Wolfie - Reported in the early 1900s from the English city of Cambridge, this truly bizarre avian entity is thought to have been paranormal in origin, and resembled a stork with flipper-like wings and hair like that of a rabbit. It was capable of moving at extreme speeds, and was usually witnessed at twilight or in the middle of the night. Although it didn't seem to be malevolent, it caused poltergeist activity. Wolfman - Differing from werewolves despite popular assertion, these shapeshifting creatures are born when a human gets bitten or scratched by a preexisting member of the species. They will transform into humanoid monsters when exposed to the full moon or high levels of adrenaline, and will attack those that their animalistic brains view as threats. This often includes those that they had grudges on when they were human. They can be killed using silver weaponry. Wolpertinger - As relatives of jackalopes, these animals have fangs and large wings, as well as the normal characteristics of jackalopes. They are much more violent than their relatives, and will attack people without provocation. Wombach - An extremely rare and endangered relative of the Australian wombat, these creatures have seemingly evolved a more lithe physique for moving quickly away from agile hunters. They are sometimes mistaken for bunyips or Queensland tigers, when in fact they are viciously hunted by both of those animals. Woodarjee - Mischievous and sometimes violent, these dwarfish Australian faeries resemble small Aboriginal humanoids, and are sometimes known to attack those who travel through the Outback alone. They wield spears and other traditional tribal weapons, which they use to inflict wounds that will disappear as soon as the victim vacates the woodarjee's territory. Woofin Nanny - Ludicrous-looking predators, these vaguely feline creatures were first reported in 1966 when a member of their species killed several animals in their North American habitat before draining them of blood. Very little else is known about them, though they are thought to be related to some of the bizarre 'phantom big cats' that have been sighted across the country. They are extremely similar to the beast of Bladenboro. Wraith - Producing extreme feelings of depression or panic in the humans in their vicinity, these shadowy Scottish ghosts resemble skeletal humanoids covered in flowing black cloth or dark cloaks, and almost always have hoods obscuring their faces. They will attach themselves to the emotionally weak, draining their souls and driving them to suicide or murder. Their name is sometimes thought to be synonymous with other malevolent spirits, especially the ghosts of the recently deceased. Because of their appearance, they are often mistaken for Grim Reapers. Wrath - The largest supernatural creatures ever recorded to set foot in the British Isles, these enormous humanoids have been known to sometimes reach the sizes of mountains, and are heavily mentioned in the folklore of Wales and England. They are clumsy and stupid despite their physically opposing form, and they have been known to either feed on humans or their food supplies. Meetings between groups of wraths can often become confrontational and violent, due to their antisocial nature. Wretch - First documented and named by a group of hunters called the 'One Candle Society' after it pursued one of their members for a month, this vile entity resembles an extremely unhealthy human, with jaundiced skin and an almost transparent body, and is known to stalk and torment specific individuals before vanishing just as quickly as it came. It usually manifests when victims are relaxed or not expecting an attack, and is thought to be able to teleport or become intangible to evade capture. Wulgaru - Fashioned from living wood, these Australian constructs are covered in magical runes that enable them to both reflect elemental attacks back at the caster, and think for themselves in the heat of battle. They are often created to be used as guards or foot soldiers by magic users, seeing as their woody bodies can crush bone and weather all but the strongest of attacks. Wulver - Unusually good-natured for monstrous humanoids, these relatives of the cynocephali live in the riverside caves of the Shetlands and Scotland. They are happy to be left alone, and will not attack passersby if they do not attack first. The creatures seem to be strangely fond of fishing, and have been known to leave great swathes of fish on the windowsills of local houses. Wunk - Often confused with the Bulette because of their similar appearances, these skittish burrowing North American creatures are mentioned in the folklore of Lumberjack communities, and are said to have powerful shapeshifting abilities which they can use to assume the forms of animals and humans, but are paradoxically never observed to use them. Instead, they will immediately dig large holes, climb in and fill the holes over themselves at any sign of danger. Wyrm - These serpentine dragons are found all around Europe, and will often build large nests in dark caves where they hoard precious metals. Despite their wingless nature, they can glide for short periods using flaps of skin on the sides of their bodies. Like many other members of their family, they can produce large amounts of fire from their mouths, and are fond of hunting penned livestock. The milk from this livestock increases the animals' growth to an alarming degree. Wyvern - Found mostly in Europe, these two-legged dragons are unique in their large and powerful stinger at the end of their tail. They are sometimes associated with cold weather and snow, and have a venomous bite rather than the ability to breathe fire. Xacia - Ruling over faeries in their area, the ranks of these mighty beings include such legendary figures as Oberon, Titania and Robin Goodfellow. They are known from the mythology of various Spanish cultures, and usually mate for life in order to rule over networks of underground tunnels as royal couples. If threatened, they are capable of summoning and controlling unearthly creatures, which appear seemingly out of nowhere. Xaka'z 'Asdza' - Eternally in the process of freezing to death, this bizarre and terrifying ice elemental is found in the mountains of North America, and is said to be essential for the ecosystem around it, causing destructive heatwaves if it is killed or hurt. It resembles an emaciated human woman without clothing or any form of shelter, and is always surrounded by flocks of cold climate-dwelling birds, which it uses to herald the arrival of the severe blizzards that it brings. Xan - Resembling monstrous mosquitoes or wasps, these creatures were mentioned in South American folklore as having stingers large enough to kill a human with ease. After doing this, the creatures would feed on the blood of their victim, which would emerge from the skin as a result of the venom in the stinger. Xanthos - Despite their demonic appearance, these bizarre horse-like creatures were actually mounts bred by an ancient extraterrestrial civilisation, and are known to have the ability to teleport themselves and their riders great distances, having the urge to explore alien planes and worlds even when not commanded by their mostly-extinct creators. They are very intelligent, and spend their time memorising and cataloguing the terrain and features of the worlds they visit. Xbolonthoroch - Causing loud noises and disturbances at night in a poltergeist-like manner, these invisible Mayan faeries are found in Central America and Mexico, and are known to nocturnally recreate all of the sounds heard in the household during the day. Although they are invisible and are not directly malicious, they are mischievous and are known to cause widespread insomnia in their households, seeing as their actions bring disproportionate terror to nearby humans. Xecotcovach - It is thought that these massive birds were created by ancient Mayan gods, though this has not been proven in any way. They have bright red plumage and are highly aggressive to humans. Their presence has a strange effect on wood, with the substance instantly catching fire. Xerfilstyx - Completely insane due to their constant exposure to the tormented souls and lost memories contained in the waters of the River Styx, these truly bizarre demons have the torsos of horned humanoids complete with bat-like wings, but the hindquarters of hideous slugs or leeches. Like true leeches, they feed on the blood of their victims using the mouths on their lower bodies, but are also capable of exhaling a lethal toxin made from a mix of blood and Styx water. Xexeu - Similar to the legendary thunderbird, these South American birds are known to have the supernatural ability to gather storms and control the weather. They resemble giant eagles, but are rarely seen by humans despite their large size. This factor has meant that there is not a lot known about the beasts. Xhumpedzkin - Resembling giant gila monsters, these lizards were mentioned in Mayan folklore and are still found in South America to this day. They have the ability to make themselves invisible and camouflage in with shadows despite their giant size, and kill their victims using a deadly poison. This venom is injected through a bite to the nape of the neck, and will cause a severe headache and then death. Xianfu Zhi Yu - Found in muddy rivers across China, these truly bizarre hybrid beasts resemble large hogs or pigs with the heads of fish, and their meat is believed to cure stomach ailments if eaten. Some modern scholars have suggested that the references to them in ancient Chinese texts might actually be referring to porpoises, which are also known as 'River Pigs' in modern culture. Very little is known about them, because they are incredibly rare in modern-day Asia. Xiangliu - Resembling an enormous nine-headed Nāga, this monstrous Chinese deity commands other dragon-like creatures such as Gonggong, and is known to decimate the natural environment wherever it moves, leaving craters and gulches devoid of life in its wake. There are multiple tales of the monster being killed by various heroes, but its blood is always said to be so toxic that the ground into which it leaks becomes barren and is incapable of supporting life again. Xiao - Related to the agropelter, these long-legged apes are found in the mountainous forests of Asia, and will use their prehensile limbs to throw large rocks and objects at people who walk beneath them. They are capable of turning their heads in a full circle, and mimic the distinctive cries of owls and other birds of prey. Xicalcoatl - Found in the waterways of Mexico, these black snakes will develop natural growths on their backs that resemble finely-painted chocolate vases, and use this object to lure children into their swampy habitat. As the victims reach for the vase, the snake starts to coil around them, and will eventually constrict them to death. If threatened, the faery creatures can make their watery abodes boil and churn. Xifajk - Common household demons from Malta, these creatures delight in creating disharmony and annoying the residents of their local area, which they achieve mostly through playing harmless pranks. However, if the creatures are not exorcised, then the pranks will escalate in severity until they become deadly. Xill - Particularly nasty denizens of Limbo, these bright red creatures resemble humanoid amalgamations of reptilian and insect-like features, and are considered to be the scourge of their home plane, dwelling in barren deserts and seeking only to expand their territory at the expense of other life-forms. All members of their race are female, and are capable of injecting parasitic eggs into other living beings through a grotesque ovipositor found between their mandibles. Xingtian - The wrathful undead manifestations of Chinese soldiers decapitated in battle, these creatures will rise again from their death and reshape their bodies in order to place a face and mouth in their chests. They are masterful users of all kinds of weapons, but prefer axes and large shields. There is speculation that they may be descended from some kind of ancient deity, due to mention of this in Chinese mythology. Xiuhcoatl - Sometimes simply referred to as 'fire serpents' by the Central American Aztec culture, these enormous turquoise snakes represent droughts and dry seasons, and are said to have originally been fashioned as weapons by the Aztec fire deity. Their bodies are wrapped in bloodied paper as a representation of sacrifice, and their sharp scales are made from an obsidian-like substance. If threatened, they can strike directly through the bodies of other creatures, slicing them in half. Xoc Shark - These strange supernatural beings are thought to be bound to ancient cursed sharks' teeth, but have clearly been existent for a long time because they were featured in the Mayan Calendar. They can be found in the waters around South America, where they produce intense bursts of light and beautiful patterns to hypnotize prey. Xolotl - Responsible for collecting the souls of the dead in South America, these werewolf-like beings have the head and features of a hairless dog. Recently, however, the beings have began to appear in North American households and dwellings that are situated on top of traditional ritual burial grounds. Their extreme similarity to the anubites suggests an evolutionary relationship between the two creatures. Xtabay - Originally formed from the souls of ill-willed virgins who displayed extreme jealousy for others, these Central American demons now act in a similar manner to succubi, luring and seducing unwary men and then killing them after having sexual intercourse. They lurk under particular spiky trees, and comb their long hair using the vicious spines. Xuungruf - Mentioned in the folklore of Somalia, these bizarre demons are thought to be similar to the Nasnas due to their almost identical biology, equipped with only one of each limb and a one-sided head due to having half a humanoid body split vertically down the middle. They are surprisingly agile despite their physical limitations, and are terrifyingly said to be able to kill victims with a single touch, instantly stripping all the flesh from their bodies. The being are also called Hungruf. Xuuya - Almost always closely flanking the powerful trickster known as Raven, these Canadian shapeshifters resemble large black birds in their true forms, though can become humans to communicate with people. Like the trickster himself, they teach people lessons through harsh and mischievous pranks, dispelling darkness and making people less vulnerable to possession. Xwixwiya:ye - Also known as 'underwater flies' because of their appearance and behavior, these strange freshwater crabs are found in the lakes and rivers of British Columbia and Canada. What they lack in size is more than made up for by their powerful venom that is injected through their pincers. Natives of the area say that this poison can kill a human very quickly. Y Fuwh Laethwen Lefrith - Once wandering wherever it pleased across the Welsh countryside, this faery animal resembled a white cow, and was capable of producing milk for all those that wanted it, no matter how many times it was milked. This milk had the ability to make the foolish wise, the sick healthy and the miserable happy. It produced a calf which later went on to be Ychen Bannog, but hasn't been seen since the denizens of the Vale of Towy attempted to slaughter it to eat. Yacumama - This vampiric serpent is found in the Amazon river and other South American lagoons, and is said to drain the life energy out of the surrounding area. To protect themselves, local tribesmen would blow a conch horn before entering the water, and this seemed to compel the creature to reveal itself if present. Yacuruna - Either resembling aquatic hairy humanoids or reptilian beings, these creatures are found in the Amazon River of South America, and are often observed to ride crocodiles and use boas or other snakes as necklaces. They have the ability to shapeshift into many different animals or attractive human males, and have been known to kidnap human women to transform them into merfolk. Yacuruna have ornate underwater cities that are often mistaken for reflections of the sky. Yagim - These ferocious shark-like creatures are known to live on the coastlines of North America, and to often feed on unwary fishermen who stray into their territory. They are represented by bright red masks during traditional ceremonies because of their extreme bloodthirstiness. Their bodies are covered in spines and spikes, which they use as armor against potential harpoon attacks. Yaguareté-Abá - Akin to skinwalkers, these South American shapeshifters use the skin of a jaguar and a specific dark magic ritual to become feline beasts, and are known to hunt and kill humans in this form. They resemble small jaguars with the torsos of humanoids, and are greatly feared by local populations because of their savage behavior and nighttime raids on farms. The only way to kill them is with bullets blessed by a religious leader. Yahoo - Covered in reddish fur, these Australian primates are spoken of in Aboriginal mythology, as well as commonly sighted by modern-day witnesses. They have long fangs that enable them to seriously wound potential aggressors or large prey items. It is unknown how both the yowie and the yahoo share habitats, though it is speculated that they both rely on different food sources. Yaka - Spreading horrific illnesses and pathogens among human populations in their general vicinity, these impish Sri Lankan demons are ruled by a powerful being, to whom shamans often make offerings. They resemble small humanoids with large and bony heads, sometimes with ornate organs resembling helmets. Yaksha - Similar to the Greek dryads, these Hindu faeries are the mischievous protectors of forest or mountain ecosystems, supposedly guarding treasures that are hidden beneath the rocks and trees. Despite their mostly inoffensive nature, they have also been known to be sexually predatory and to lead travelers astray, as well as sometimes eating human flesh. Yakshini - Although they look demonic, these beautiful and voluptuous Hindu spirits are actually benevolent and helpful. They often divided up into 36 different categories or subspecies, though all of these share the common trait of granting believers in their faith wishes. Despite this, there are thought to be some evil individuals of this species in India, where they act as vicious guardians of an underground treasure. Yale - Although these herbivores may look like docile antelopes, they have flexible horns that they can move and swivel at will to defend themselves. They are known to be quite pugnacious towards those that they deem threats, and are willing to charge, with often fatal results for the opposing party. They are found mostly in the forests of European countries. Yali - These powerful beasts resemble lions with long tusks and brightly colored fur, and are spoken of in Hindu traditions. It is thought that some members of the Hindu religion have imported the mighty creatures over to other areas of the world from Asia. Yalpaghan Khan - Depicted as a sort of ruling deity of dragons in Turkish and Altai mythologies, this powerful entity usually appears as a seven-headed dragon, and is regarded as the rightful ruler of all monstrous reptiles. Very little else is known about it, but it is thought to be closely related to the Yilbegän that is found in a similar locale. Yama - Referred to as the judge of the dead and the ruler of the Underworld in East Asian and Hindu folklore, this powerful creature is said to have once been a god that fell from grace. It is constantly surrounded by ferocious daevas, and uses packs of bloodthirsty hellhounds to guard its lair in the Hindu equivalent of Hell. Yamabiko - Roaming the mountains of Japan, these mammals are skilled at manipulating their voices and mimicking those of others. Their activity is often attributed to unusual and threatening echoes that are heard in mountain territories, and also to the mysterious screams that emanate from the woods at night. More recently, the creatures have learnt to mimic car engines and a full range of human speech. Yamachichi - Originally bats that lived for over a hundred years and thus transformed into monkey-like monsters, these frightening creatures are usually found in the mountains of Northeastern Japan. They often invade the houses of sleeping humans and use their pointed lips to literally steal the breath of these victims, draining their life force in the process and leaving them to die the next day. However, if they are caught in the act, the life-span of the victim will be increased instead. Yamapikarya - Found in the jungles of the Japanese Iriomote Island, these large big cats are said to reach sizes of 2 meters long, and to resemble clouded leopards with distorted spots or even stripes, and exceptionally long tails roughly twice their body length. Their agility and leaping ability is said to be prodigious, as the creatures are capable of leaping up to 5 meters from a standing position, and to dash through the trees in a manner more comparable to a primate than a cat. Yamata No Orochi - Gigantic serpents with eight heads, these monsters lurk in the deep waters surrounding Japan, and are so large that moss and trees grow on their back. The creatures have been mentioned in some of the oldest ever written Japanese documents, and it is likely that they were known in prehistory. Yamauba - Capable of shapeshifting into kindly human women, these hideous Japanese hags live in the mountains and forests across the country, and will offer shelter or hospice to weary travelers, before devouring them overnight. It is said that these beasts were once humans who were cast out of their community during times of crisis due to their advanced age and inability to help by working. Yanagi Baba - When a willow tree reaches 1000 years in age, it has a chance to spawn one of these rare elemental spirits. They resemble old women with skin that appears as wrinkled wood and green hair akin to long leaves. These creatures are mostly harmless, though are known to harass travelers by grabbing their umbrellas and pulling at their clothes. Yan-Gant-Y-Tan - Roaming the countryside of France while carrying five candles in each hand, these demons are often linked with the Will-O-The-Wisp phenomenon, and seeing their flames at night is thought to be an omen of extreme misfortune. However, they can be warded off with offerings of gold and jewelry placed outside at-risk households. There has recently been some speculation that they may actually not be evil, and may use their lights to guide lost travelers home. Yāoguài - Born from fallen angels and forgotten gods, these freakish Chinese demons are usually found in Hell, though are sometimes seen in isolated packs among mountains and dense forests. They attempt to gain more powers and abilities by feeding on the flesh of saints, magic users and messiahs. Their greatest goal is to gain immortality, and thus the status of a deity once again. Yara-Ma-Yha-Who - From Australian Aboriginal culture, these small and arboreal vampiric humanoids will suck the blood out of victims using the cephalopod-like suckers at the ends of their fingers, and then swallow them whole. The victims will then be regurgitated, and will gradually transform into another of the monsters. Yara-Ma-Yha-Who - Known from Australian Aboriginal mythology, these diminutive vampires resemble frog-like humanoids with wide mouths and red skin, as well as cephalopod-like suckers on their fingers which they use to drain the blood of unwary travelers that come to rest under the fig trees in which they live. After swallowing their human victims, they take a nap before regurgitating their prey, who will now be shorter and have a red tint to their skin, and this process will be repeated until the victim transforms into another Yara-Ma-Yha-Who. Yarikechō - Born from neglected and abandoned hair-tipped spears, these dark-skinned tsukumogami usually appear as emaciated humanoids with long white hair, and often carry weapons such as hammers or mallets. Very few descriptions of their behavior have ever been recorded, though they are known to have been used as decorations in processions and parades in their previous lives as inanimate objects. Yaroma - These violent and aggressive humanoids are often mistaken for humanoid bunyips when they are seen around swampy areas in their Australian home. They are roughly 12ft tall, and have impressive tusks that can be used to attack prey items and potential aggressors. They have been known to Aboriginal natives for centuries, and were first reported by settlers in the late 19th century. Yasha - Most closely resembling humanoid vampire bats, these agile Japanese shapeshifters are thought to be the undead reincarnations of people who died whilst still consumed by anger and rage. They were mostly women or young girls in their past lives, though it is unknown why this particular demographic is more likely to become one of these monsters. Yatagarasu - Enormous birds, these three legged crows exist in incredibly sparse numbers in Asia, where they are often summoned by magic users to act as familiars. In Japanese folklore, their appearance is supposed to represent the Sun, and the birds thus have the power of heat manipulation. Ya-Te-Veo - Found in Central Africa and South America, these monstrous carnivorous trees usually prey on large insects using their spiny tendrils, but are also known to capture and eat humans if they are not sufficiently satiated. They can do this by laying their bladed tentacles down onto the ground as to make them almost invisible, leaving their thick stumps to resemble inviting seats. Unwary human victims will sit on the stumps and will then be ensnared and squeezed until drained of blood. Ya-Te-Veo - Growing in South America and Madagascar, these carnivorous plants use their tentacle-like branches to ensnare and consume large insects, though have also been known to grab passing humans. They will crush the life out of their prey, and feed on the blood that drips from their bodies, eventually discarding the drained carcass beneath their woody trunks. Yatsufusa - Resembling large dogs or wolves, these curious Japanese beings are known to enter relationships and close friendships with humans and other sentient races through use of a shapeshifting ability. Because of this, they are often killed by panicked hunters that mistake them for monsters, and the animals have thus evolved to reincarnate themselves using eight beads that they carry. Yawkyawk - Appearing as beautiful female humanoids covered in long flowing seaweed, these Australian merfolk are capable of controlling the weather around them, sending nourishing rain to farmers that have honored them, but creating catastrophic storms if they are disrespected. They are capable of shapeshifting into dragonflies or swordfish in order to confuse potential hunters, and are thought to be associated with the powerful creator god known as the Rainbow Serpent. Yayu - Thought to be some of the first dragons or evil beasts ever to appear on the planet according to ancient Chinese mythology, these monstrous hybrids resemble dragons or cats with the faces of humans. They can mimic the distinctive sounds made by a crying human baby to lure unwary travelers to their riverside habitats, where they will promptly be murdered and eaten by the beastly dragons. Yedua - Enormous plants that take human shape, these ogre-like beings were spoken of in the legends of the Middle East, and are said to be connected to the ground by an umbilical cord on their bellies. Despite not being able to move from this set area, they will viciously maul and kill all organisms that set foot within their radius. They can only be killed by severing the cord. Yehowah - Rarely encountered by any modern humans, this incredibly powerful splinter personality of the Judaeo-Christian God prefers to represent itself as the glowing letters 'LORD' floating in empty space. Its real name is sometimes translated as Jehovah, and a religious organization that has become famous for its strange behavior has been named after this in the modern day. Yehwe Zogbanu - Dwelling in the swampy forests of Africa, these monstrous relatives of trolls are well-known for the large numbers of twisted horns that spring from their foreheads and backs. They are a constant threat to hunters, and they are often blamed for the unexplained disappearances of explorers and travelers. Unlike true trolls, they are capable of moving around in full daylight. Yeitso - Covered in precious metals and flints in a manner similar to the scales of a pangolin, these massive giants are mentioned in the stories of the Navajo people of North America. They will hunt and devour human children who have futures as heroes or demon slayers, and can throw lightning bolts to defend themselves. The only way to kill them is by deflecting their lightning back at them. Yellow Spectre - Said to have eyes like black caverns that can cause immediate death if they are stared into for too long, these spindly horrors are mentioned in Irish urban legends. One of these presumably undead creatures was witnessed by a young girl in 1912 as it stood by a seawall in Cork Harbour, simply staring at the water instead of showing any aggression. Because of their skeletal frames and their lethal gaze, they are commonly held to be related to Bodaks. Yenaldooshi - These shapeshifting monsters were once humans, but murdered one of their close relatives in return for monstrous power. They can shapeshift into coyote-like beasts, as well as poison their victims using pellets fashioned from bone, which are known to stay in a victim's body and slowly kill them over weeks. Yeren - Behaving in a manner to giant pandas, these hairy humanoid apes are found in the bamboo forests of Asia, and are often covered in a thick coat of black and orange hair, though some white individuals have been seen. They are generally subdued and impassive around humans, though some stories of territorial aggressive traits give them a bad reputation. Yeth Hound - Manifesting as headless black dogs, these monstrous hellhounds are actually the cursed ghosts of children who died while they were unbaptised, and are now damned to roam the moors of Southern England, hunting down similarly-damned souls with the intention of transforming them into more Yeth Hounds. They roam forests and swamps at night, emitting mournful howls which serve to foretell (or cause) the deaths of all those who hear them within three weeks. Yeti - Having been known to Tibetan natives for centuries, these hairy humanoids are shy and peaceful creatures that live in the Himalayan mountains. They are 8-10ft tall, and are covered in thick coats of fur, which are normally reddish brown rather than white, contrary to popular convention. In the 20th century, massive footprints were found in the Himalayas, which belonged to the yeti and bought the creature into Western culture. Yidam - Regarded as tutelary deities of meditation in the Buddhist faith of Asia and India, these nebulous beings are contacted during meditation, when the yogi will identify their own thoughts and physical aspects with that of a Yidam for the purpose of spiritual transformation, seeing as the beings are associated with purity of mind. Among their ranks are other gods such as Chakrasamvara, and esoteric shrines are sometimes built in their honour. Some have argued they may be Tulpas of a sort. Yiena - Powerful African demons, these creatures have the manes of horses and long claws like a predatory dog, with which they disembowel and eat corpses after tearing off any jewelry from the victim. They have eyes seemingly made from stone, which have hypnotic abilities, and will grant humans magical abilities if they can slay one of the creatures. Although they can shapeshift, their eyes will remain the same in any of their forms. Yilbegän - Combining the destructive features of dragons and ogres, these terrifying Siberian creatures are thought to have originally been the offspring of a powerful witch by the name of Altan Sibaldai. They are held responsible for lunar eclipses in the local culture, and are usually found in dark and secluded places such as caves or abandoned castles. In these castles, they hoard great quantities of gold, and are sometimes known to shapeshift into human form in order to conceive hybrids. Ying Ling - Born from the souls of fetuses that were stillborn or aborted, these Asian ghosts feature in Buddhist tradition, in which they are honored with a lavish ceremony involving intricately-crafted dolls. However, some researchers have suggested that the original stories were fabrications, and the ghosts should instead be classified as tulpas. Ying Zhao - Written about in the early bestiaries of China, these sphinx-like beasts have the bodies of horses with the stripes of tigers and the wings of large birds, as well as humanoid faces. They were sometimes regarded as the emissaries or avatars of deities, and would deliver messages from Heaven to Earth using their swift flying abilities. This had led to modern scholars comparing them to the Buraq. Yin-Shu - Subterranean monsters, these massive rodents are found in the frigid mountains of China and Siberia, where they tear up the ground in which they tunnel. Despite their extreme physical power, they are dim-witted and slow moving, and will die immediately if exposed to direct sunlight. There has been some confusion in historical times between the remains of these creatures and the remains of mammoths. Ymir - Chaotic and monstrous, this mighty frost giant is mentioned in the creation myths of ancient Norse cultures, and is said to be the father of all jötnar. When the Norse pantheon came into being, they judged the giant by its actions and decided that it should be executed, its blood and bones forming the land and sea as it died. The spirit of the creature is still sometimes summoned by jötnar followers nowadays. Yochlol - Appearing as stinking 6ft-tall oozes of yellow molten wax in their true forms, these disgusting demons have the ability to shapeshift into either drow-like forms or even gaseous states in which their victims will often unknowingly inhale them. When they are summoned by humans, they are compelled to perform one deed at their command, but will relish the moment when they break free of their masters' command and wreak havoc on the mortal world. They were created from succubi by a goddess. Yodha - Futuristic descendants of modern-day faeries, these alien-looking dwarves are highly intelligent and manipulative, and have been known to work alongside the Greys. They appear to have an extensive programmed for hybridization between themselves and various Earthly sentient races, for unknown purposes. Despite their advanced technology, they prefer to use primitive weaponry such as bows and arrows. Yongwang - Controlling dragons and other supernatural reptiles in their vicinity, these powerful Korean shapeshifters usually appear as elderly humans with intricate clothing, though resemble humanoid dragons in their true forms. They are usually found near rivers and oceans, on the banks of large bodies of water, and have the ability to control the weather in their vicinity. Yosuzume - Appearing as omens to the arrival of evil creatures or demons, these Japanese birds resemble black sparrows, and move in great preternatural swarms. They will follow and chase human passersby, and are thought to bring bad luck to all those that they touch or land on. There is some speculation that they are ghostly in origin. Yowie - Apelike marsupials, these creatures are found in the arid grasslands and forests of Australia, and were first reported in the 1870s. They have long arms and human-like footprints, as well as large flat noses resembling those of mandrills. Their evolutionary heritage is hotly debated, though there is a theory that they may come from a derived population of thylacoleo. Ypotryll - Featured in medieval European heraldry, these peculiar ungulates have camel-like humps and the tusks of boars. Although they may look small and inoffensive, they are known to do serious damage when they are angered enough to charge. For this reason, they are prized companions for trolls and ogres. Yugoloth - Presenting themselves as greedy mercenaries and manipulators willing to sell their services to whoever can afford it, these nefarious demons are native to the area between the main sections of Hell and the Abyss. Despite the public image that they create, the highest-ranking individuals of the species view conflicts as games which are ultimately theirs to control and steer. They were once locked in a great war, but they ended it and united most of the demonic forces against Heaven. Yuki Onba - Manifesting as pale humanoid women dressed in thin garments and holding freezing infants, these frightening Japanese ghosts appear in mountains during Winter, and will beg passersby to hold their children for them. If the victim obliges, they will be instantly frozen to the spot and will slowly freeze to death as the snow falls around them, though if they refuse they will be pounced on by the ghostly form and beaten to death before being eaten. Yuki-Onna - These vengeful spirits are formed from those who have died in a snowstorm or due to other extremely low temperatures, and will then follow the weather conditions that killed them wherever they go. Although they look graceful and serene when moving, these spirits will drain the life force of any mortals that they encounter. Yumbo - Spoken of in the folklore of West Africa, these pale faeries live in underground colonies amongst coastal hill regions, and are known to sneak into local villages overnight and steal couscous and other valuable resources by arranging themselves in lines and passing the stolen goods down their number. Like other faeries, they enjoy dancing and merriment, but are also known to attach themselves to certain families and can then be heard wailing when members of those families die. Yu-Min Kuo Yan - Hatching from eggs and being born with bodies covered in feathers, these Chinese humanoids dwell in mountainous areas, and are sometimes thought to be a species of humanoid flightless bird because of their appearance and ecology. They have bird-like wings instead of arms, and are known to be very shy and skittish, fleeing at the first sign of human contact. This means that records on their origins and culture are very scant. Yunwi Djunsti - Small and tricky North American faeries, these creatures usually resemble humans of the native Cherokee tribe, but have dark pink skin that appears to be sunburns, and stand only 2ft tall. They have their own social structure and are usually hostile or even judgmental towards human visitors, and have been known to cause large quantities of acorns to fall on unwary hikers. However, some groups of them can be bargained with and are even sometimes considered benevolent. Yūrei - Japanese ghosts, these beings appear as pallid versions of their former selves, with long and disheveled hair and the wounds that they died with. They do not change location consciously, but will instead follow around a person or an object in a manner similar to a curse. Yuta - Akin to exorcists, these powerful Japanese magic users are often called upon to remove curses placed on individuals by wrathful ghosts or demons, but are also famous for their brash ways. One of the rituals that they commonly perform includes binding their patient's thumbs together and hitting them with a nail, for example. Yuuri - Nebulous critters that dwell in waterholes and billabongs across Australia and Queensland, these bizarre creatures are often confused with bunyips because of their monstrous appearance and semi-aquatic habits, or assumed to be related to yowies because of their homophonous names. They usually resemble large ants or other such insects, and have single eyes in the middles of their foreheads. Depictions of the creatures are often muddled with those of bunyips. Yuxa - Appearing as humanoid dragons with the barbed tails of scorpions, these Turkish shapeshifters are known to assume the forms of beautiful human women to seduce unsuspecting victims. They can breathe fire and have deadly poisonous stings. It is said that once a snake reaches 100 years of age, it will become one of these dragon-like monsters. Zagaz - Bringing death to infants and newborns through deadly diseases such as infantile tetanus, these evil Moroccan Djinn were first identified by a medical practitioner named Dr. Françoise Legey, who oversaw hospitals in Morocco. Zagaz must be counteracted by rituals using incredibly poisonous plants like oldeander and colocynths, thus meaning that they must be performed by shamans and skilled magic users. These rituals are performed after the births, when a powder made from herbs is burned. Zalambur - Mentioned in ancient Islamic texts, these Middle-Eastern djinn are thought to be direct descendants of Iblis, and are known to create and then preside over fraudulent business transactions. They feed off the greed and frustration that their behavior causes the humans in their vicinity. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are not good fighters, and prefer to manipulate from the shadows. Zamba Zaraa - Strange mammalian creatures, these weird relatives of hedgehogs live in the deserts and grasslands of Mongolia, and possess long tails that they beat against the ground when threatened. Most notably, however, they are capable of inflating their bodies up to the size of a small tent, behaving like a puffer fish. Both of these behaviors are intended to scare away potential predators such as the legendary death worms. Zamparrampa - Causing poltergeist activity and domestic chaos around them, these malevolent Spanish faeries occupy households and poorly-kept dwellings. They enjoy playing cruel pranks and manipulating the behavior of those that live in their habitat. In appearance, they resemble bloated and overweight human women. Zamzummim - Said to have inhabited the mountains and plains of Western Asia and the Middle East before human settlers arrived, these strange giants are thought to be related to nephilim. They are thought to have been mostly wiped out by the Ammonites, but some of them still remain in deep cave systems and isolated mountain ranges. Zână - Giving skills to children in their vicinity like gifts, these Romanian faeries are patient and full of knowledge, using which they often help lost travelers out of woodlands or act as imaginary friends for children. They are completely invisible unless they want to be seen, and are virtually incapable of committing violent deeds. However, if they are crossed or harmed, they will place minor hexes and bad luck on those who hurt them. Zantegeba - Taking on the forms of savage, demonic baboons, these monstrous African hellhounds are known to raid isolated villages and assault their occupants. They mostly target women, and their terrifying behavior has led to the creation of a tribal tradition in which one member of the tribe dresses up as the monster and chases women. Zaqqum - Grown from the seeds deposited in Hell when someone on Earth commits a serious sin, these hideous trees grow among the flames of the Underworld, and have fruits that are shaped like the faces of demons. Inhabitants of Hell are forced to eat the fruits as punishment, which are deadly and poisonous, apparently burning in the bellies of the damned like churning oil. Zār - Mentioned in the mythology of Africa and adjacent Middle Eastern areas, these pallid demons are often known to possess human women and cause discomfort or mental illness, and are known by numerous different names depending on the illnesses that they cause. They are all bound in servitude to a powerful semi-aquatic spirit called Warobal Mama, and exorcism rituals to banish these creatures are the specialties of certain cults of witch-doctors in some modern African societies. Zaratan - These massive sea turtles are rare occurrences nowadays, though were more well known in Arabian folklore. They are legendary for their incredibly long lifespan and their shells that can come to resemble islands. Because of the sheer size of the animals, entire ecosystems have been known to spring up on their backs. Zardana Monster - Either found in the Middle East or the mountains of Spain during 1655, this prodigious monster resembles a many-armed and seven-headed humanoid with the legs of a satyr. One of its heads only has a single eye, but the rest resemble those of regular humans. It seems to have been a complete oddity, and has not been since, nor has any more information been made available about its possible origins. Zburător - Taking on the form of draconian wolves with wings and fire-breathing abilities, these vicious Romanian demons are related to succubi and incubi. They appear during the night, completely invisible to human eyes, and make love to innocents, often those who are soon due to be married. In their human forms, they are often dark-haired and attractive young men. Zburător - This rapacious Romanian spirit takes the form of a wolf-dragon hybrid, and has a tail made from black flame. It is capable of shapeshifting into the form of a handsome young man, and will often seduce and kidnap women using this appearance. Zduhać - Mentioned in Bulgarian and Serbian tradition, some children will be born with the genetic ability to take on the form of a dragon-like humanoid to combat demons. When these people sleep, their spirits leave their bodies and assume dragon form, fighting together in groups to ward off harmful entities. The human host will often not be aware of their dual nature, and will wonder why they always wake up tired. Zeernebooch - Bizarre and terrifyingly powerful, these godlike undead entities are thought to act as rulers and princes in the Underworld, commanding legions of vampires and ghouls to do their bidding. They are sometimes referred to as demons or possibly dark deities, and very little is known about their appearance or behavior outside of specific occult research groups in Germany. Zelus - Often confused with deities, these ancient Greek angels are well-known for spreading jealousy and envy among human populations. They are said to stand guard at the doors of the throne-room of Zeus, and to cause potential intruders to tear each other apart with rage and jealousy. There are three other species of angels specifically designed to guard Zeus. Zemi - Either regarded as deities or ancestral spirits, these godlike beings each control an aspect of the world around them, and ornate sculptures are often made out of wood or stone by the Taíno people of South America and the Caribbean in order to worship them. They all serve a powerful creator deity and a fertility goddess, who are both also considered higher forms of Zemi. Zemis can be consulted for the purposes of healing and advice by priests known as Bohuti. Zemlemer - First witnessed sometime before 1917 by a schoolteacher named Marfa Senkina, these 8ft-tall hairy humanoids have large glowing eyes and are known to induce fear and frenzy in nearby dogs and other guard animals. The witness was staying with the Russian Khanty people beside the Ob' River in Siberia, and was curious as to why their dogs were so loud at night. This question was answered when she saw one of the dogs confront the monster, only to be thrown high into the air. Zeta Reticulan - Linked to the well-known abduction case of Betty and Barney Hill, these strange alien beings bear a strong resemblance to the famous Greys, and were first witnessed by the aforementioned couple in 1961. After this abduction, they reported a long period of missing time, and Betty suffered from bizarre and repetitive dreams about the alien beings. The aliens allowed Betty to view a star map, which matched with scientific observations of the Zeta Reticuli system. Zeus - This powerful pagan Greek deity is the father of most of the entities in the Greek Pantheon, and is thought to represent the sky and the weather, and can thus use electrokinesis to damage his enemies. He was married to Hera, but was famous for having affairs with many mortal woman, all of whom eventually met terrible fates at the hands of Hera. Zheng - Appearing as a multi-tailed lion or leopard, these Chinese creatures live in secluded mountainous forests. Their fur is usually red in color, and they have a single horn-like structure protruding from their foreheads, which is usually used as a sign of maturity. They make ferocious roars that sound like stones striking each other, and are feared by local humans as a result. Zhenniao - Resembling storks or eagles with green and purple feathers, these Southern Chinese birds were well documented in several ancient texts. All of these sources mentioned their poisonous bites, claws and meat, which are thought to have been obtained through their diet of similarly toxic snakes. The feathers of the birds are sometimes mixed in with wine to poison assassination victims. Ziburinis - These Lithuanian shapeshifters appear as skeletons burning with ghostly green fire, and are said to foretell death and destruction with their arrival. They are cruel creatures, and all those that they touch will slowly burn to death over a long period, which is thought to be the effect of some kind of supernatural poison. Zilant - Covered in hardened spiky feathers and blackish scales, these powerful Russian wyverns are said to have been born from the souls of wrathful serpents that were burnt to death by the ruler of an ancient village. The snakes were described as being as large as logs, and they were so poisonous that they could kill animals using their mere scent, as well as being led by a much larger two-headed individual. When the rest of the snakes were killed, the leader became a dragon to take revenge. Zimni Ludzie - Entering the bodies of their human victims much like the Alp-luachra, these dangerous Polish demons act as the personifications of disease, living in swamps and puddles and clambering onto the clothes of their victims if they walk through the water. The creatures will then enter the victims' mouths or noses overnight and cause diseases that can be cured by exhaling into a hole made in a tree and keeping the hole blocked afterwards, thereby trapping the creatures. Zin - Usually appearing in forms resembling dragons or monstrous merfolk, these African djinn are found in muddy rivers and lakes across Nigeria, and are sometimes associated with musical instruments. They are well-known for their poor vision, seeing as their habitat has very low visibility, but are also capable of controlling aquatic animals in their vicinity. Zipacna - Taking on the forms of enormous caimans or crocodiles, these monstrous Central American beings are arrogant and violent, enjoying boasting about their past kills and defeats of heroes. They are often responsible for the disappearances of large parties of fully-equipped warriors, but it is said that the first of their species was outwitted using an ingenious trap involving a fake crab. Ziphius - Strange, owl-like fish, these creatures were commonly depicted on mariners' maps in Medieval Europe, and were said to attack ships that they passed. They use their massive dorsal to pierce the hulls of ships when they swim under them, and their ferocious beaks to eat the humans that fall into the water after this attack. Strangely, their name seems to be derived from the Greek word for swordfish. Zirnitra - Spoken of in Russian and Slavic traditions, these shapeshifting creatures are usually seen as large dragons, and are capable of using powerful dark magic to obliterate their enemies. Users of this magic have been known to offer sacrifices and prayers to the creatures in order to help them improve their own abilities. Zitiron - Covered in a hard carapace resembling the armour of a medieval knight, these strange merfolk were said to roam the waters surrounding Europe in ancient times. They are now much rarer, and seem to be concentrated around Italy and France. Like many supernatural creatures, they cannot be killed using conventional weaponry, and must instead by bludgeoned to death using a blunt instrument. Ziz - While the Leviathan rules the oceans and the Behemoth controls the land, this griffin-like bird represents the skies. It has such a massive wingspan that it shatters buildings with its wing beats and blocks out the sun when it flies. Zlatorog - These golden-horned sheep live in the mountains of the Balkans, and are said to have powerful magic abilities, such as blinding people with the glow from their horns. It is said that the creatures' horns will unlock a gateway to a hidden treasure if they are captured, though this has not yet happened. When one of these creatures bleeds, healing flowers sprout from its blood, which the animal then eats. Zmaj - Highly respected in the mythology of Serbia, these mighty shapeshifting dragons are thought to be the reincarnated souls of revered ancestors or tribal guardians, and are capable of both helping and hindering human populations. A new individual of the species is born every year from a fireball that rises up from a lake. They are known to marry human maiden and sometimes neglect their protective duties, and the women in question will slowly wither and die because of the creatures' magic. Zmeu - Known from Slavic and Romanian mythology, these shapeshifting tricksters usually assume the form of an anthropomorphic dragon. They use their great magical powers to steal things of vital importance to human populations, such as vast riches or enchanted artifacts. There is some speculation that they may either be descended from or be classified as faeries. Zombie - Created using assorted chemicals and spellwork from the Haitian Voodoo, these undead creatures will serve as mindless workers and servants to their makers. However, if they are left without commands for a long time, they will sometimes become wild and vicious, and resort to eating human flesh. Zoobaghah - One of the so-called 'Dark Trinity' of Djinn along with Iblīs and Shara, this extremely evil and powerful Middle-Eastern entity is found in dark caverns and valleys, as well as commonly manifesting at crossroads in the company of four Ifrits. It usually takes the form of a tall humanoid with bronze skin and silvery wings on its feet, mounted atop a ferocious two-headed dragon. When it attacks its victims, it causes extreme terror and eventually death due to a snapped neck. Zophasemin - According to the writings of the Ancient Greek scholar Philo of Byblos, these bizarre angelic aberrations were born from creatures that lacked any sort of perception of the outside world, and were among some of the first intelligent beings. They are often confused with the Grigori because their name translates to 'Watchers of Heaven' in Hebrew. Strangely, they are said to be shaped like eggs, leading some to posit a connection with ultraterrestrials, aliens or UFOs. Zorigami - After over 100 years of human neglect, clocks can become these fearsome tsukumogami that are mentioned in Japanese folklore. They have the ability to slightly alter time in their general vicinity, slowing it down or speeding it up at will. Despite their obviously threatening abilities, not much is known about the creatures. Zoureg - Extremely destructive and deadly despite only being a foot long, these mysterious physics-defying snakes are known from the Arabian mythology of the Middle-East, in which it is stated that nothing can stop them once they begin moving. This means that they will indomitably cruise through any object in their way, ranging from trees and rocks to animals and humans, which they can instantly kill by simply slicing through their bodies like hot knives through butter. Zozo - Apparently encountered since the 1800s, this ferocious entity is thought to be demonic in origin, and is often inadvertently summoned through misuse of a Ouija board. It is capable of causing extreme poltergeist-like activity, and also possessing human victims. The frequency of these cases has led to considerable paranoia surrounding the board game. Zuiyō Maru Monster - First discovered when the corpse of an individual was detected off the coast of New Zealand, these strange aquatic reptiles resemble prehistoric plesiosaurs. They mostly live in the very bottom depths of the oceans, where they use their bizarre appearances to mimic decaying corpses, and attract worms using glowing fronds on their faces. Similar animals have been seen in Japan. Zuttibur - Mentioned in the folklore of the Medieval Slavic people of Germany, these powerful forest elementals are believed to have once had massive shrines and temples devoted to them in areas of thick woodland. They are similar to the leshy and other woodland spirits, but most records of them were destroyed when Christian colonists came into the area and wanted to eliminate pagan worship. The creatures have not been seen since, which suggests that they are extinct.