Griffins

Griffins are better than dragons.

-Thiago Abdalla (probably)

Statistics

Average Height: 4 meters
Average Length: 6 meters
Average Lifespan: 100 years
Number of offspring: 1-3 eggs

They are warm-blooded, but like to spend their time basking in the sunlight.

Dietary Needs

They area carnivores. When they aren't sleeping in a sunbeam, they're out hunting to feed themselves and any offspring they might have at the time. Like many birds, griffin swallow small stones to help them break up their food.

Anatomy

Griffin have the head and forelimbs reminiscent of a large bird. Their hindquarters resemble that of a wild cat. Unlike birds, griffins have large external ears. both genders of griffin also have large antlers. Males tend to have larger antlers.

They have large, feathered wings. Their tail is long with long hair running along its underside.

Each of their legs have four clawed digits.

Their avian parts are often brightly coloured while their back half is less vibrant.

Reproduction

Griffins are oviparous and lay their eggs in nests. Wild griffins build nests out of sticks, leaves, and other things they find lying around. Domesticated griffins are provided with material to use. These nests are warmer and sturdier. More domesticated eggs hatch when compared to the wild nests.

Regarldess of where they live, the eggs are nurtured by both parents. When they hatch, the mother does most of the caring for them while their father brings back food. Once the chicks are around 5-6 months old, he leaves them in their mother's care.

Domestic griffins often have a human partner who helps them, assuming some of the egg watching and food bringing duties.

Grifflets learn to hunt from their mother and are independent by their 8th month.

Intelligence

Griffin are smarter than the average horse and are often compared to the jyelyar. They are intelligent and capable of learning a variety of words.

Habitat

They are originally from Ardren. Most of the survivors from the War of the Roses relocated to Keltos. Without armies trying to eradicate them, the griffins thrived in their new home. It took a few centuries, but their numbers have risen to nearly what they once were.

Social Structure

In the wild, griffins generally only socialize with their current mate and offspring. They don't form lifelong partnerships. Females are generally more sociable, but are notoriously choosy about who they allow near them.