Žaltys
Lithuanian mythological serpent
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A žaltys (Lithuanian pronunciation: [ʒɐlʲˈtʲǐːs], literally: grass snake) is a household spirit in Lithuanian mythology. As a sacred animal of the sun goddess Saulė,[1] the grass snake was considered a guardian of the home and a symbol of fertility.[2] People used to keep it as a pet by the stove or other special area of the house,[1] believing that it would bring good harvest and wealth.[2] Killing the žaltys was said to bring great misfortunes upon the household.[1] If a žaltys was found in the field, people gave it milk attempting to befriend the creature and make it a sacred household pet.[3]
