Some animists do acknowledge a creator-god, usually seen as a deity of the sky or the sun. And although this dim memory of the God of Genesis has been submerged in a plethora of lesser gods, it has not been totally erased. From these major gods have developed thousands of others. In animism there can be individual gods who hold sway over a local stream, a tree, or a particular type of animal. In societies based on hunting buffalo, for example, there may be a buffalo-god who, if his favor is curried, will provide the animal for tomorrow's kill.
Animism also ascribes magical powers to animals, heavenly bodies, or other created objects.
As spirits also are believed to cause illness, bring natural catastrophes, and lead to victory or defeat in everything from planning a marriage to laying out a village, the favor of the spirits must be gained. But the price can be high. In some cultures, the ritual sacrifice of a child has been considered necessary to save an entire village from an offended god's wrath. In one country where animism prevails, its followers have been known to descend on the scene of auto accidents, hoping to scoop up human blood to be used in their rituals - a more powerful substitute for the animal blood most often available. Priests, witch doctors, and shrine guardians preside over most rites.