The lamia is a female creature of Greek mythology known for seducing humans. They are described as having the upper body of a woman but the lower body and fins of a duck. Lamias were said to be great architects and builders. According to myth, lamias demanded services from humans and would punish those who broke their rules. One story describes a lamia punishing a midwife for taking bread from her home without permission by causing her to lose her gifts and sight.