Goblins (The Spiderwick Chronicles)

Goblins are toad-like monsters that appear in the Spiderwick Chronicles.

Characteristics
Goblins are malicious and grotesque. They range in skin tone, color and size. But Red Caps are notably larger than common Goblins. These Goblins haunt battlefields. They're intelligent enough to make crude weapons and lead battalions of Goblins, deploying and ordering them around.

A single goblin is a nuisance, but in large numbers they can be quite dangerous. Generally, Goblins travel in roving bands that scavenge for food and hunt smaller prey. They occupy positions on Earth, constructing their homes and lairs in rocky outcroppings, caves, or even in ditches along the sides of roads. Although their presence may go unnoticed, as humans are incapable of perceiving them unless they use a special lens that allows one to see them. Their pranks run from distasteful to depraved. The rare goblin that is mischievous but good-natured is known as a hobgoblin. Most goblin species are born without teeth. They must find substitutes, either the teeth of other animals, or sharp objects like glass, rocks or metals other than iron.

Their toad-like body is covered with fleshy polyps and their eyes can move independently of on another. The smaller simple eyes detect body heat. Some have bio luminescent organs on the tips of their tongues. These are used to attract sprites, their favorite food. Goblins have acute hearing and a highly refined sense of smell. Goblins love human inventions, they will use anything discarded by humans. Goblins urinate to mark their property and territory.

Weaknesses
Tomato juice is described as being able to burn them like acid. Vinegar can also blind them and their dim-wittedness makes them relatively easy to outsmart. Tomato juice, vinegar, oatmeal, and salt are all known to burn the flesh of goblin's.

Signs of Goblins
There are many signs to look for if you suspect goblin folk are in the vicinity. Cats, dogs, and other small domesticated animals go missing is a telltale sign, as goblins will capture and eat them. Nightmares, especially of being chased, are another indication. For unknown reasons, goblins have this effect on humans.