The Garuda is a large mythical bird or bird-like creature that appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology. Garuda is one of the three principal animal deities in the Hindu Mythology that has evolved after the Vedic Period in Indian history. The other two are Ganesha, and Hanuman. Garuda is the king of the birds. He mocks the wind with the speed of his flight. As the appointed charger of Vishnu he is venerated by all, including humans. He has the head, wings, talons, and beak of an eagle and the body and limbs of a man. He has a white face, red wings and golden body. In Hindu religion, Garuda is a Hindu divinity, usually the mount (vahana) of the Lord Vishnu. In Buddhist mythology, the Garuda are the great golden-winged Peng birds. They have the ability to grow large or small, and to appear and disappear at will. Some of them have the magical power of changing into human form.