In Irish mythology, a leprechaun is a type of male faerie said to inhabit the island of Ireland. They are a class of 'faerie folk' associated in Irish folklore with the Tuatha De Danann and other quasi-historical peoples said to have inhabited Ireland before the arrival of the Celts. As a rule Leprechauns usually take the form of old men who enjoy partaking in mischief. Their trade is that of a cobbler or a shoemaker. They are said to be very rich, having many treasure crocks buried during wartime. According to legend, if anyone keeps an eye fixed upon one, he cannot escape, but the moment the gaze is withdrawn he vanishes. In most tales and stories, leprechauns are depicted as generally harmless creatures who enjoy solitude and live in remote locations, while in others they are depicted as ill-natured and mischievous, with a mind of cunning. In several Irish legends leprechauns have a power of hypnotism or trickery that confuses their target, either allowing the leprechauns to escape or just to play tricks on unsuspecting victims.