Chaneque

Chaneque are small, mischievous forest sprites in Mexican (especially Nahua and other indigenous) folklore, child-like beings who guard streams, trees, and natural places. They hide people's souls to cause illness or madness, returning them only after offerings like food, tobacco, or candles are left. Pranksters and guardians, they punish those who disrespect nature—such as littering or harming trees—while rewarding respect. In stories, they reflect animistic beliefs in spirits inhabiting the environment, serving as protectors of the wild and enforcers of balance between humans and nature.