A leprechaun (Irish:
leipreachán) is a type of fairy in Irish
folklore, usually taking the form of an old man, clad in a red or green
coat, who enjoys partaking in mischief. Like other fairy creatures, leprechauns
have been linked to the Tuatha Dé Danann of Irish mythology.The
Leprechauns spend all their time busily making shoes, and store away all their coins
in a hidden pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. If ever
captured by a human, the Leprechaun has the magical power to grant three wishes
in exchange for their release. Popular depiction shows the Leprechaun as being
no taller than a small child,with a beard and hat, although they may originally
have been perceived as the tallest of the mound-dwellers (the Tuatha Dé
Danann).
