Giant Running Lizards

The Giant Running Lizard is a large reptilian creature native to Epra.

Appearance

Giant Running Lizards are large normally about eight feet in length from nose till the base of the tail, which themselves are typically about four feet. They have two sets of legs, a front set and a hind set, which are quite powerful and allow them to sprint for long spurts to chase prey and get away from predators. They have five digits on their hands each with a sharp claw which helps them catch prey as well as helping them climb up steep and rough terrain.   They also have sharp serrated teeth and large round eyes that can vary from dark black to bright yellow.   Their tough leathery skin is covered in small armoured scales which in wild populations are brown or yellow in colour. In domesticated groups, colors like black, white, and rusty reds are also common. Giant Running Lizards also typically have darker coloring on their backside than on their belly.   Males and Females also tend to have some differences. Males tend to be bigger with larger heads and fancy feathers on their heads for wooing the ladies. Females tend to be smaller, but a bit chubbier, with less fancy feathers for camouflaging purposes.

Biology

Diet

Giant Running Lizards are omnivores and can eat both plants and meat. They tend to prefer meat over plants, and will often hunt for small animals to eat.

Behavior

They have a herd mentality, where they group together into herds. They also have a clear hierarchy in these herds, with a dominant leader and then everyone being underneath them in the ranking.   They lay large soft-shelled eggs in clutches of 5-10. These clutches tend to hatch after three or four months. They take around two years to become fully developed adults. The mother is the carer of the offspring, with fathers having little to do with them, often being hostile.

Uses

Giant Running Lizards are native to the planet Epra, but the species have become common across the Galactic coalition often being used as a mount in regions where wheeled terrain vehicles cannot go. They are very common in more rural planets like Ocarro, where they are used as mounts and other transportation; they are especially useful in the herding of animals due to their quick and agile bodies.   Giant Running Lizards may also be raised for their meat being kept in herds by ranchers. Their eggs are also edible and may be collected for food. The hides of the Giant Running Lizards are also used, often being made into leather, typically for instruments and small items.