A duende is a humanoid figure of folklore found in Iberian, Ibero American, and Filipino cultures, comparable to dwarves, gnomes, or leprechauns. The word "duende" refers to a spirit in Spanish, Portuguese, and Filipino folklore and literally means "ghost" or "goblin" in Spanish. Duendes are known for their mischievous nature and are often associated with the forest. They are believed to be of small stature wearing big hats, whistling a mystical song, while walking in the forest. Using their talent, they are believed to lure young girls to the forest causing them to lose their way home. In some Latin cultures, duendes are believed to be the helpers of people who get lost in the forest so they could find their way home. In Hispanic folklore of Mexico and the American Southwest, duendes are known as gnome-like creatures who live inside the walls of homes, especially in the bedroom walls of young children. They attempt to clip the toenails of unkempt children, often leading to the mistaken removal of entire toes. They are also known for taking items from young children.