lechuza

1. Any elusive bird-like creature/spirit that terrorizes people, esp. at night.
2. A witch or "bruja" that has taken the form of such a creature.

A lechuza can appear at any time and any place, but these feathery spirits seem particularly prone to spread their wings and terrorize those who have consumed alcohol. Cars driving down lonely highways also seem a favorite target of lechuzas. Especially common in Mexico and the southwestern United States