Uldra
Deep in subarctic forests where few humans dare to tread live the beings known as the Uldra, a rare species of arctic gnome. They have very little interaction with bigger races, preferring to stay to themselves and other fey.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Uldra stand about 3 -4' tall. They have pointed ears like an elf, significant noses, and often grow bushy beards and mustaches.
Uldra are supremely adapted to cold, and while not immune to its ravages, are able to survive extreme cold as if it were a cool day.
Growth Rate & Stages
Like most gnomes, uldra age at about 1/10th the rate of humans, reaching puberty around 130 years old, adulthood at 180, middle-age at 400, old age at 600, and venerable at 800 years old.
It isn't unheard of for an uldra to live more than a thousand years.
Ecology and Habitats
Uldra are native to subartic forests where they, like all fey, live in harmony with nature, never hunting or harvesting more than needed for survival.
Uldra often act as wardens to the smaller animals, such as destroying traps that have been laid by human, and freeing animals that have been snared. Uldra also look after hibernating animals, bringing them food and keeping their lairs clean and warm.
Dietary Needs and Habits
While omnivorous, uldra eat a sizable amount of meat.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Uldra live in clans ranging from 40 to 400 individuals, are fairly evenly divided between male and female, adults and children.
Facial characteristics
Uldra sport prodigious noses. They often grow long beards and full mustaches.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Uldra are native to subartic forests.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Uldra have several senses that range beyond human.
Their sight extends into the ultraviolet range, allowing for excellent vision under the stars. Additionally, due to adaptations to avoid snowblindness, Uldra are able to see in Blinding Light as if it were Dazzling Light, and Dazzling Light as if it were Bright Light
With their prominent noses their sense of smell is enhanced, even allowing them identify individuals by their scent and track.
Civilization and Culture
Major Language Groups and Dialects
Uldra speak a dialect of gnomish, itself a creole of dwarvish and sylvan.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Uldra tended to steer clear of the Jotun and Nords, being leary of the larger races and their disregard for nature. However, given their general good nature, they have been known to help those that get lost in their beloved forests.
Uldra were on good terms with the snow elves before The Great Abduction. Now, with the vacuum left by the elves disappearence, uldra have found themselves being pushed into new niches, such a defenders of taiga.
Origin/Ancestry
Dwarf / Fey
Lifespan
800+ years
Conservation Status
Rare
Average Height
3-4' tall
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Uldra are very pale skinned. Their hair tends to be white or very pale blond. They often sport tattoos with religious, tribal, and personal significance.
Geographic Distribution
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