Huldra

Huldra or Huldrafolk are a type of Fey known from mainly Scandinavian folklore, though they are assumed to be a cousin of Dryads or possibly Nymphs.
Huldra is the female version - a male would be a huldrakall
They are a nature fey bound to forests, said to have power over nature and woodland critters.
The Huldra is recognized by their tails (usually cow-like, but horsetails and foxtails are also mentioned) or hollow backs. Some start to grow bark-like skin.

Many unflattering tales leave way to a certain skepsis about the Huldra, such as they store the soul of their sexual partners, and make them introverted. That they grant hunters luck, if you are unfaithful to them, you'd be targeted by accidents. To break their curse you'll have to fire a shot after her.
Supposedly if you marry a Huldra, she will lose her tail and become human. Likewise if she'd get baptized.
She is connected to cows, and should she move into an empty stall in you cow shed, she'd make sure your cows were happy and healthy, but she'd be vengeful and mean spirited if her stall would get in use.

Additional Information

Social Structure

After The Unravelling several small villages across Scandinavia was revealed to be completely inhabitated by Huldrafolk, showing that they at least have the capacity to live like humans - though more enthusiastic about nature than the common human.

Facial characteristics

To many, Huldra have appeasing, charming faces, even if they have pointy ears.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Mostly Scandinavia.

Civilization and Culture

Courtship Ideals

Once they set their eyes on a potential mate, Huldrafolk can be pretty persistent and dedicated to get their mate.

Relationship Ideals

Huldras tend to find one partner and hold on to them, even if the relationship turns sour.
They can be very compassionate, but vengeful when scorned.

Common Dress Code

Historically long dresses that hide the tails for as long as possible.
A tendency that many still practice to blend in better.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

While Huldrafolk do mate within their own species, most prefer to sire offspring with humans. Their children usually becoming the same species as the donor.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Average Physique
Tales support at least the potential to be stronger than humans.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Huldrafolk come in the same nuances as humans, but ethnicity has less to do with it.
Their coloration comes from their natural ties to the forests and the trees.
As such they have the possibility of more vibrant hair colors, much like leaves, including green, purple, yellow, orange and red.
Related Ethnicities


Cover image: by Hassel
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