Cliff Martens

Cliff martens¹ are mustelids found along the cliffs lining the coast of Ela'k Forest in western Dragonía.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Cliff martens are relatively small and nimble, swift on land but mostly rely on their ability to glide between places -similarly to flying squirrels- whenever they can. This ability allows them to hunt Þe'haned Birds, their favorite prey, as well as their eggs and hatchlings.
Gliding around the cliffs can be treacherous for the cliff martens however, as they are poor swimmers, so being swept away by waves crashing into the cliffs or getting caught in strong winds means almost certain death for them.

Ecology and Habitats

Cliff martens specialize in hunting along the coastal cliffs on the western edge of Ela'k Forest, but make their home in holes dug above them, though they rarely wander far into the woods.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Aside from þe'haned birds, they feed on small rodents, birds and insects found above the cliffs. The prey is usually killed by biting and latching onto it until the poor creature dies of exhaustion and blood loss.
Cliff martens are also known to scavenge near or in Útel settlements, where they are considered vermin due to going berserk around poultry or rabbits.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The furs of cliff martens which are killed within towns are sometimes used by Útels to decorate clothing, some of which is sold to pilgrims on their way to Qaþúlanz Falls as souvenirs.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

They have keen eyesight and able to judge distances at a glance with remarkable accuracy.

¹Original icelandic: bjargvíslur, singular: bjargvísla

by Lappalingur

Origin/Ancestry

Western Dragonía.

Conservation Status

Least concern.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The back and sides are grey to camouflage against the rock; the belly, throat and tip of the tail are white, while the area around the eyes is is dark grey.