Sílamur (See-lah-muhr)

The Sílamur is an extinct goat-like animal who lived in mountainous regions around Iaris. The closest living relative of the Sílamur is the Kirian Mountain Goat.

Description

Sílamur were known to be much larger than their living ancestors, with males often reaching 150 cm (59 in), or sometimes taller, at the shoulder. They had thick, heavy fur, usually gray or soft brown, including a beard. Large curling horns served as defense and dominance over territory. Their three-toed feet and wide tails likely evolved for climbing and balance. Sílamur had horizontal pupils similar to living goats.

Behavior

Though Sílamur were good at climbing but tended to dwell mostly in the foothills or lower elevations of mountains. It is thought that this is due in part to their size, as food is more scarce at higher elevations. They were not herd animals, but tended to live alone or in pairs. Their main food source was grasses, but they also ate most other plants, including berries. They were territorial over places with consistent supplies of food but tended to migrate when necessary to find better food or water sources. Sílamur were unable to be domesticated, which has been attempted numerous times through history.

Extinction

Sílamur were a favorite prey of dragons, and this is most likely the reason for their extinction. The Sílamur was noticed to be endangered around 1774, and 93 Sílamur were captured in an endeavor to save the species through captive breeding programs. The program failed, as Sílamur fared poorly in captivity.

EXTINCT