Curupira

The Curupira is a forest spirit from Brazilian folklore, particularly among the Tupi-Guarani peoples. He appears as a small, red-haired man or boy with one unmistakable feature — his feet are turned backward, leaving tracks that lead in the opposite direction. The Curupira protects the forest and its animals from hunters and those who would take more than they need. He uses his backward feet to confuse pursuers, creates illusions, and makes frightening sounds to drive people away from the deepest parts of the jungle. Hunters who wish to pass through Curupira territory must leave offerings of tobacco or food and promise to take only what they need.