The harpies were a group of gigantic monstrous birds born of unnatural sorcery. Artemis described them as "ravenous and savage" and combining the worst traits of humans and animals. At one point, they began to prey upon the sacred deer of the goddess Artemis. The goddess eventually enlisted Hercules's help in defeating them. During the battle, harpies briefly abducted Megara and one of Artemis's pack, but they were swiftly rescued.
