Tradition / Region: Paraguay Mythology, Brazilian Mythology, Argentine Mythology
Alternative names: Pomberito, Karai Pyhare, Pyrague, Kuarahy Jára, Cho Pombé, Lord of the Night
Category: Goblin
The Myth
The Pombero is a mysterious nocturnal being that inhabits forests, abandoned houses, barns, and lonely rural places throughout the Guaraní-speaking world. Usually active after dark, he is known as the Lord of the Night and is one of the most feared and respected figures in Paraguayan folklore.
He is commonly described as a short, ugly humanoid with extremely short arms and hairy hands and feet. His feet allow him to move silently through the forest, while the touch of his hairy hands is said to send a cold shiver through those he touches. The Pombero possesses many supernatural abilities, including invisibility and the power to squeeze through impossibly narrow openings.
Before appearing, he often announces his presence with strange whistles and the songs of nocturnal birds, which he can imitate perfectly. Because of this, he is regarded as a protector of birds and is said to punish children who hunt them with slingshots.
Although generally considered a mischievous spirit rather than an outright monster, the Pombero delights in causing trouble. He steals eggs, honey, and chickens, scatters grain and food stores, releases livestock, and frightens horses so that riders are thrown to the ground.
He is also associated with mysterious pregnancies and is sometimes blamed for fathering children born unusually hairy or unattractive. In darker traditions, he is said to kidnap lonely or ungrateful young women, force his affection upon them, and violate them. Similar stories are also attributed to the Guaraní being Kurupi.
Because of his unpredictable nature, people seek to appease the Pombero with offerings. Cigars and rum are his favorite gifts, though honey is also considered acceptable. Families in rural Paraguay often leave these offerings outside at night to prevent his mischief.
Those who regularly honor him may gain his friendship. A satisfied Pombero is believed to protect homes, animals, and possessions, and sometimes rewards his benefactors with small gifts of his own.
Thus, the Pombero remains one of the most enduring figures of Guaraní folklore—a silent lord of the forests who walks unseen through the night, bringing either mischief or protection depending on how he is treated.
Sources
Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Pombero. In Wikipedia. Retrieved June 13, 2026, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pombero