LECHUZA

ORIGIN: Mexican and Southwestern U.S. folklore.

This legend tells of a shape-shifting creature that is in the form of a massive owl, having a wingspan as wide as 7 feet. 

However, the most strange feature of the Lechuza is that it possesses the face of an old woman. 

Some versions of the legend say that the creature is a witch who sold her soul to the devil to gain dark powers and have her revenge on those who wronged her.

The Lechuza is believed to move in the night, usually perched in trees or silently gliding over rural areas. 

She is known for mimicking the sound of a crying baby or a woman's wail, to deceive her victims into going outside within her reach. 

Once the person is within close distance, far from their own home or civilisation, the Lechuza swoops down to snatch them away or cast down a deadly curse upon them.

People who encounter the Lechuza are from then on, followed by unexplained accidents, illness, or death. 

To ward off this supernatural creature, folklore advises people to pray, cuss loudly, or throw salt at her. 

The legend of the Lechuza remains a fear not likely to be gone soon, especially from the minds of those who dwell in remote regions.