The Hemulen

The Hemulen ("Hemulen", "Hemuli") is a character in the Moomin series of books by Swedish finn author Tove Jansson. He is a member of the species of Hemulens and is an avid stamp collector. Hemulens feature frequently in the books. His cousin collects butterflies, and another is an avid skier. The Hemulen's Aunt (or at least a Hemulen who looked very much like her) raised Moominpappa in an orphanage. Other characters frequently find the Hemulens annoying or overwhelming, as they can be somewhat loud, bossy, abrasive and insensitive, but they are well intentioned and usually have other redeeming qualities. Hemulens somewhat resemble Moomintrolls, but are taller, always grey, and have an even longer nose than moomintrolls. It is also mentioned that they all wear dresses, possibly because it never occurred to them to try trousers.

The Hemulen first appears in the second book in the series, "Comet in Moominland", but also plays a role in the third book, "Finn Family Moomintroll", and gets at least a few mentions in "Tales from Moominvalley", where he has become a house-guest and member of the extended Moomin family.

It's also likely, though not certain, that the Hemulen who appears in the last book, "Moominvalley in November" is meant to be the same one, as it's repeatedly mentioned that he lived with the Moomins for a while and knows Snufkin from old. However, his personality is notably different here; his plant collection doesn't even get a mention, he instead seems to like organizing and helping people who he thinks need it - whether they actually do or not.

The Hemulen was also found in other adaptations for television.