Lithuania
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Zitny Smij
The Zitny Smij is a form of dragon from Lithuanian myth. It is known for being good natured, and its name means “corn dragon.” They bring corn to their favorite people and look like fire streaking across the sky. They are thought to be one of many forms of household dragons. Citations: Bane, Theresa. Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore. United States, McFarland, Incorporated, Publishers, 2016. Lecouteux, Claude. The Tradition of Household Spirits: Ancestral Lore and Practices. United States, Inner Traditions/Bear, 2013. MacKenzie, Shawn. Dragons for Beginners: Ancient Creatures in a Modern World. United States, Llewellyn Worldwide, Limited, 2012.
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Mlokowy Smij
The Mlokowy Smij is a form of dragon from Lithuanian myth. They are good-natured and give milk to those they like, often women of high status. Citations: Grimm, Jacob. Teutonic Mythology. United Kingdom, George Bell, 1883. MacKenzie, Shawn. Dragons for Beginners: Ancient Creatures in a Modern World. United States, Llewellyn Worldwide, Limited, 2012.
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Baubas/Babauzis
The Baubas is a creature from Lithuanian myth. It is a monster or witch thought to carry off bad children. This creature’s name translates to “one who frightens children.” It is believed to have associations with the goddess of death (possibly Veliuona). Citations: Bane, Theresa. Encyclopedia of Beasts and Monsters in Myth, Legend and Folklore. United States, McFarland, Incorporated, Publishers, 2016.
