Woodland Fairies (Samodivi)

In folk beliefs the SAMODIVI or SAMOVILI are fascinatingly ethereal maidens with long loose hair, sometimes also with wings. They are dressed in a shirt and a gown, and have a green belt and a sleeveless jacket on. Their garments are decorated with feathers by means of which they can fly like birds.
These mysterious creatures are mistresses of the waters and can bring about drought. Supported by the imperial eagles, they are able to command the elements of winds and, therefore, their appearance is often accompanied by a whirlwind. Some of them (perhaps by no chance) look like the ancient Amazons - armed with bows and arrows, they ride gracefully gray deer using reins of intertwisted snakes.
The wood-nymphs dwell in the dark forests and wild mountain recesses. They live under huge old trees, in deserted huts, or in caves dark as hell. One can see them mainly in spring or summer. They go out only in the night and with the cockcrowing they hide themselves again. At twilight woodland fairies go near to the waters - lakes, pools, springs, wells - strip naked, bathe, wash their shadows (or clothes) and then hang them out to dry in the moon, keeping a vigilant eye on them, so as not to get stolen ...

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