Huldrs are exclusively female characters of German-Scandinavian mythology. According to one version, they belong to the representatives of the so-called "hidden people", i.e. creatures with inexplicable supernatural powers and leading a lifestyle hidden from people. This version is supported by the meaning of the word ” huldra ”, most likely derived from the Old Norse ” hulja ” - “to hide” or “to hide”. According to another theory, more dubious, the huldr trace their ancestry to the forest trolls. Also, sometimes, these creatures are ranked among the forest spirits, who can take on a human form.
Ancient legends describe huldra as a long-haired girl with dazzling beauty. Its only difference from a human being is the presence of a long tail behind, similar to a cow's (in some sources - like a fox), which the huldra is trying to hide with all her might. The beauty of huldra is so perfect that a passer-by who sees it can forget himself and fall in love with this creature without memory.
In ancient legends, cases of the union of young men and these mythical characters are described, and even the appearance of their offspring. Children born to humans and huldra usually have a normal human appearance, but may be endowed with some special talents or abilities. A man who remained to live with this forest spirit could never return back to human society.
If the huldra herself feels affection for a man or a young man, then she will by all available means try to win his favor, constantly pursue him, while remaining invisible to other people. Most likely, the purpose of this creature is to create a family and live together with a representative of the human race. In case the man remains immune to her charms, the huldra will try to seduce him and conceive a child.
The habitat of these creatures is forests and mountains, especially the most remote and remote areas. Here huldra is raising cows that are much larger than normal cows. It is during the time when the huldra is guarding her herd that there is the best chance of meeting her. Quiet melodic singing speaks about the closeness of this essence. However, if a person passing by for some reason does not like the huldra, she turns into an ugly old woman and can send diseases and other troubles to the traveler, which will make themselves felt after some time. More often, nevertheless, the legends say that the huldr do not harm people, if people, in turn, do not try to harm these creatures or their flock.
Currently, in the city park of the Norwegian capital Oslo, you can see a monument depicting a huldra. These characters are an important part of the cultural heritage of ancient Scandinavia, rumors of meetings with them periodically arise today.