Auka

Auka is a small, mischievous forest spirit in Slavic mythology, specifically associated with the dense woods of the Polissya region. Unlike the larger Leshy, Auka is a round-bellied creature that remains active all year round, even in winter when other spirits sleep. He lives in a small hut covered with golden moss and is known for his incredible ability to mimic any sound, including a human voice.

His primary trait is leading travelers astray by echoing their calls for help. Auka is not inherently evil, but he loves to play tricks; he answers "Ay!" from different directions, luring people into the deepest thickets or swamps. To escape his trap, one must know his name or use special forest charms. Originating around 900 CE, he remains a symbol of the mysterious and unpredictable nature of the wild, representing the spirit that "answers" whenever a human calls out into the forest.