Huldrufolk

Pronunciation: Hool-drew-folk
HULDRUFOLK – (Norwegian) A group of mischievous woodland spirits that have the fronts of men, but the hollowed out backs of trees. They are basically one and the same as the wood wives of Germany. In Germany they are often linked to the goddess Holda. The Elle of Denmark are a special variety said to guard the Elder Tree. Generally all these beings seem to be the same type. They appear as beautiful children from the front but have a tree trunk for the back. Animal features are common making them appear only half human, they generally shy away from Mankind.