Sirens, mythical sea creatures who are typically associated with mermaids. But despite modern depictions, the original sirens that are found in Greek Mythology were actually quite different.

In such mythology, sirens were actually described as being part-woman and part-bird, instead of part fish. A common element of their depiction, is their beautiful appearance and lovely singing voice, which they use to lure sailors to their doom.

The famous story, the Odyssey, detailing the adventures of the hero Odysseus. In one such tale, Odysseus and his men were planning to set sail, but were warned about two sirens that they would encounter on their way. Interested in hearing the sirens' song but wanting to live, Odysseus had himself tied to their ship's pole and blocked his men's ears with wax.

When they encountered the sirens, Odysseus was taken by their voices and began begging for his men to release him. However, with their waxed ears, the men kept him bound and managed to get away unharmed. After the ordeal, the Greek hero almost immediately forgot what their sounded like, only that it was beautiful.

A siren's song is one of the most famous of sea legends, an omen of death for sea faring men. Nowadays, there are also said to be male sirens, for sailing women and are depicted as part fish, like mermaids.

If you are by the chance out on the water and you hear a beautiful song coming from the distance, it might already be too late. As that same beautiful sound will lure you to your death at sea.