Izarein

Also known as the northern star deer, the izarein are a large, hoofed ruminant native to the northern reaches of Adis in what is now Mosvador, the Voskuan Republic, and the Avarian Divine Empire. They are known for their grey fur with white, swirling stripe patterns that are unique to every individual. Both males and females grow antlers each year; while those of females rarely grow larger than two feet, males antlers commonly grow up to four and a half feet, with some specimens having been said to reach six.

Domestication

In the Tamque Region of Mosvador, they are commonly kept in herds by the Jendaiari people, many of whom are semi-nomadic pastoralists. They are mainly raised for their hides, meat, bones, and antlers, but are also occasionally milked. Their milk is known to be high in fats and calories, and is sometimes consumed raw, but is most commonly used to make butter and cheese.

Current Research

As a species, they have been a mystery to biologists for decades. There are a handful of predator species who live within the same range as the izarein, such as bears and wolves, who would normally be expected to occasionally predate on the izarein, but this has never seemed to be the case. Species of wolves which are known to predate on other species of deer have been observed occupying the same areas as izarein, seemingly aware of their presence, but they do not acknowledge them as potential prey, nor as a potential threat; they and the izarein give each other a certain berth of space and go on their way. Such a total lack of predation would ordinarily be expected lead to overpopulation, but this does not appear to be an issue, either. While long-term data on the izarein is near nonexistent due to a lack of funding, their population levels have seemed relatively stable in recent years. Further research is needed to more fully understand their biology and behaviors.

Izarein by illumiinae with Midjourney

Average Height

5.5 feet (1.6 meters) at the shoulder for males, 4.7 feet (1.4 meters) at the shoulder for females

Average Weight

550-600 lbs (250-270 kg) for males, 425-450 lbs (195-205 kgs) for females

Geographic Distribution

• Adis
• Mosvadoran Peninsula