mavka (mythology)

Mavka (Ukrainian: Мавка) also Nyavka (Ukrainian: Нявка) is a type of female spirit in Ukrainian folklore and mythology. The Mavka is a long-haired figure, a Soul of the Forest, typically depicted as temptress figures who lure men to their deaths.

The spirits known by this term represented the souls of girls who had died unnatural, tragic or premature deaths, particularly unchristened babies. Mavkas often appear in the form of beautiful young girls who entice and lure young men into the woods, where they "tickle" them to death. Mavkas have no reflection in water, nor do they cast shadows. In some accounts, they were also said to help farmers by looking after cattle and driving out wild animals.