Monoceroses

Monoceroses are large artiodactyls endemic to the land of Ójom in eastern Jælondis which, despite some similarities to unicorns -most notably possessing a single horn on their foreheads- are actually quite different in terms of preferred environment, temperament and social behaviour, as well as how they are regarded by local cultures.
Both Goblins and lowland Dwarves inhabiting the region show a fearful respect for monoceroses in much the same way as they regard bears, preferring to give the animals as wide berth as possible due to their unpredictable behaviour when provoked, though some also see them as pests due to a tendency for ruining crops and stealing hay.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Monoceroses are large, sturdy animals, with broad hooves to ease walking in marshy terrain and shallow waters, sloping back, powerful neck and shoulders and, most notably, a single, long horn growing straight out of their foreheads, which unlike those on unicorns are glossy black and lack the helical shape.
When threatened, a monoceros prefers to stand its ground and use the horn as a weapon with far more speed, accuracy and grace than would otherwise be excepted of an animal that's otherwise moves so slowly, to the point that some have been known to defend themselves against swords, spears and even deflect arrows with their horn. Only when sufficiently injured or exhausted does the animal flee, though bulls have a tendency to charge at their foe beforehand.
Both males and females are horned, and in general there is little sexual dimorphism to speak of.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Their diet features predominantly grasses and aquatic plants, along with ferns, mushrooms and fallen fruits when in season and, during particularly harsh winters, tree bark.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Aside from mothers with calves, monoceroses are solitary animals.

Origin/Ancestry

Eastern Jælondis

Lifespan

~15 years

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Average Height

1.5 meters at the shoulder

Average Length

~2.4 meters

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Their coat ranges from brown to dark grey, with lighter legs