Orthoraptor

​Draconis violentus
Picture
Typical Adult Orthoraptor 4-5 ft | 121-152 cm at the top of shoulder. Lifespan: 25-30 years. Rarity: Very Rare.

​About:

Orthoraptors are one of the most aggressive species that have been documented to date. They are incredibly intelligent, and are often said to be hunting you as you hunt them. Another thing to note about this species is that they are not magic users, but the magic that allowed their creation rendered all magic ineffective against them. 
 
These dragons are a raptor-type species with a hard, skull-like exoskeleton on their heads and bony spines down their back. Their armor-like skin ranges from grey to tan in color, often with mottling and/or striping in lighter and darker colors. True to the standard raptors of old, they also boast a set of sharp claws on three toes of their strong, spring-like legs. The main toe, or "big toe" of this species is also hyperextensible, and when used in combination with the dual spurs on the back of each leg allows Orthoraptors to shred through the tough skin and scales of other dragons. Their shortened arms don't boast quite the strength of their legs, but also have three sharp claws per arm and they often use them to grip their victims, so watch out! Their last notable feature is the blade-like spikes on their tail. These are used not just in battle but also in territorial disputes to slash or impale victims. They live in packs of about six total, with varying numbers of males and females. 

​These dragons are able to move silently, and have a complex communication system made up of various vocalizations, head, and arm movements. Nobody has been able to study them enough to discern what each signal means, but a snarling hiss definitely means that you've wandered too close, too late! Other dragons species don’t challenge them, and this includes other aggressive species. It's often said that a good indicator that you are on Orthoraptor land is the absence of other dragons, as they will either chase them out or kill them. Because of this, they are classified as one of the apex predator species of dragon. 

Orthoraptor breeding season starts in early spring as the ground thaws, and by early summer they guard nests built seemingly out in the open. They hatch from small clutches of one to two stone-colored eggs, and remain in their packs until they are mature at around four years old, when they are thrust out to fend for themselves. Orthoraptors do not display a strong bond with their mates, instead reproducing only with the strongest members of the pack about once every five years. Weaker members of the pack don't often reproduce, but are often observed with younger members of the pack. It is theorized that they look after offspring who are too young to join the pack on hunts. 

It has been noted that the females of the species are the more dominant in both size and strength. Females also tend to have more coloring than the males do, with greater variation in skin tone and more mottling. Males of this species are smaller with more muted coloration, and are often but not always the weaker members of a pack.
​Hunting Recommendations:
  • Hunting this species should only be attempted by highly skilled and experienced teams, as Orthoraptors are highly adaptive and intelligent, along magic being ineffective against them.
  • ​Reconnaissance is highly important prior to a hunt; knowing where they are first is a must! 
  • Good armor and weapons are a must. You will have to rely on physical attacks against this species. 
  • The use of strategy and equipment such as scent trails, nets and other diversions can help reduce the number of attackers. 
  • Goldenwing may be beneficial for aerial attacks, tracking, and capture.
  • Toxicate can be beneficial as a last line of defense, as this species will avoid ingesting the poison it creates.
​Habitat & Diet:
​This species is most commonly seen in Amadora and The Lost Kingdom. Some have also been seen throughout Kisarana and Malgosfrom, although those populations are smaller due to lack of prey and high competition. They tend to favor areas with dense foliage and large populations of herbivores such as the edges of swamps and forests, but have been known to live in drier areas such as plains.

Orthoraptor diets are carnivorous but not selective; they have been seen feasting on large and small prey, which includes other dragons. 
Dragon Artwork by: Virna-K