6. Ala destroyed and snacked on crops… as well as children.
Ala is a female demon from Eastern Europe, who, like many demons, seems to be derived from a belief in nature and weather spirits that could cause disaster and disease. Ala was believed to reside in clouds, lakes, and springs or remote mountains or caves- or in large trees. When she visited humankind, she could take many forms. Ala could manifest as a vast black wind or a female dragon, a large-mouthed human or a raven. She could even possess people. All or any of these relate to Ala’s primary characteristic: all-consuming greed.
If angered, the demon could manifest violent thunderous hailstorms to destroy fields, vineyards, and orchards. However, it was equally likely she would satisfy her enormous appetite by devouring the produce herself. When not over-consuming stolen grape or grain, Ala also liked to snack on children. Her greed was so insatiable that she also periodically tried to eat the sun and moon- therefore causing eclipses. Baba Yaga is believed to be a manifestation of Ala in that she too ate children and brought cold weather and storms.
If a person encountered Ala, their health could suffer. However, if they gained the demons’ favor, she would not only restore health but also bestow upon them good fortune for the rest of their life.
The Japanese also blamed demons for specific element-related deaths.