Curupira

🪶 Who is Curupira?

Curupira is a forest spirit and guardian from Brazilian indigenous folklore, especially among the Tupi and Guarani peoples. Described as a small being with flaming red hair and feet turned backwards, he confuses hunters and protects nature from exploitation.

🌱 Historical Origins

The first written record comes from the 16th-century Jesuit José de Anchieta, who called him a “forest demon” feared by native Brazilians.

The name “Curupira” comes from Tupi (kurupira), meaning something like “boy’s body” or “skin covered in bumps.”

🎭 Traits and Abilities

Appearance: Short stature, bright red/orange hair, backward feet to mislead trackers.

In some regional versions, he may be bald, hairy, green-toothed, or blue-eyed.

Powers: Can whistle loudly, create illusions, lead intruders in circles, and disappear into the trees.

⚠️ Role in Folklore

Curupira is a protector of animals, trees, and the forest itself.

He punishes hunters who kill for pleasure or harm the forest unjustly.

Traditionally, locals offer tobacco, alcohol, or feathers to appease him and avoid his tricks.

⏳ Regional Variations

In some stories, he kidnaps lost children and returns them seven years later.

He is often confused with or connected to Caipora, another Brazilian forest entity who defends animals.

🌍 Modern Relevance

In the 1970s, Curupira became an official symbol of forest protection in São Paulo state.

July 17 is celebrated in Brazil as the Day of the Forest Guardian.

He was chosen as the mascot of COP30, the 2025 global climate summit in Belém, Brazil — representing indigenous ecological wisdom.