Sylphs are diminutive faeries that resemble dandelion seeds. They generally travel in large groups and can alter an organism's perception of time with their songs.
The sylphs neither mentioned nor seen in the original book series, only appearing the 2008 film adaptation.
Description[]
Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide to the Fantastical World Around You (Movie)[]
"The most elegant of its species, the Sylph is delicate in form and nature. The faerie resembles that of the dandelion seedlings.
"They are airborne creatures, hence, their names, referring to the sylvan species of airborne fairies. When in full flight they emit the most beautiful sounds and in flocks they are perfectly orchestrated.
"It is easy to find oneself distracted, even entranced by their intoxicating symphony.
Detail of Sylphs delicate features: its face carries an expression of perfect contentment and is encased in a form not dissimilar to a budding rose."
Media[]
2008 Film[]
The sylphs in the film fill the role of the elves in the books. When Arthur Spiderwick stepped outside of the protective circle to protect his daughter Lucinda from a goblin attack, the sylphs, concerned at the creation of the Field Guide, abducted him and trapped him in their realm; making lose perception of time using their songs.
Decades later, the Grace siblings arrive in the sylphs' realm to meet with Arthur. The sylphs intended to keep the siblings there as well, but Arthur distracts them with a false Guide, allowing the children to escape.
After Mulgarath's defeat, the sylphs allow Arthur to briefly return and visit his former home, where he is reunited with the now-elderly Lucinda. Lucinda asks to accompany her father; she is transformed back into a young girl and the sylphs take her and Arthur back to their realm.
Gallery[]
Sylphs