Griffin

Griffins are majestic, four-legged avian beasts revered in many cultures across the world. Though rare, their sightings are often seen as omens of luck and divine favor, at least by the nobility. To rural folk and farmers, however, griffins are dangerous sky-hunters, feared for their taste for livestock.

Appearance

Griffins possess the hind legs and lower body of a wolf, while their forequarters—chest, forelegs, head, tail, and wings—are those of a massive raptor. They can grow to the size of a warhorse, with wingspans that dwarf even the largest of birds.
Males are distinguished by thick, mane-like plumage around the head and neck, while females are sleeker and more modest in coloration.

Life

Griffins are lifelong monogamous creatures, forming tight pair-bonds. They are often seen grooming one another or sleeping together in tight bundles of feather and fur.
They lay only one egg at a time, and raising a single chick can take up to five years. During this time, both parents are fiercely protective and deeply attentive, ensuring the survival of their rare and vulnerable young.

Habitat and Range

Griffins dwell in remote, dense forests and tall mountain peaks, far from civilization. They avoid mortals, recognizing bows and spears as threats. Despite being revered, they are still hunted—primarily by poachers—who covet their feathers and talons.
Their nests are typically hidden high in mountain forests, cliffside groves, or thick-canopied wildlands where few dare travel.

Behavior

Though fierce in the hunt, griffins are gentle toward their mates and offspring. They are intelligent enough to distinguish hunters from harmless travelers and have been known to observe mortal settlements from afar.
They hunt alone or in pairs, preferring wild game such as deer, wild goats, or large birds, but will prey on livestock if desperate.