Gryphon

Found (almost) globally, gryphons are medium to large-sized predatory animals. Though their exact diet varies per species, all members of this genus are obligate carnivores, and feed exclusively on meat, fish, or a mix of the two. Despite their bird-like appearance, gryphons are mammals, and are typically considered to be magical felines, grouped with several other similar species.
Gryphons are a diverse group, and the genus counts 18 species total, of which 17 found in the wild, with the last being a domesticated species bred from several semi-domesticated wild gryphon species. Wild gryphons are found on all continents except Oceania, but domesticated animals have been brought to Australia before, and may have formed feral populations.
Thanks to their (often) large size, powerful bodies, and striking appearance, gryphons are often used as symbols of power and majesty. Domesticated, they often make excellent guardians, fiercely fighting to protect what is considered theirs: their territory, or their people. They are also sometimes used as symbols of courage, boldness, and strength.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Gryphons vary in appearance between species, but the underlying anatomy is largely the same. They are quadrupedal mammals, with a third set of limbs in the form of wings on their back. They are muscular and powerful, but are also flexible, like many felines.
Their heads are bird-like, with keen eyes and sharp hooked beaks. The underlying anatomy isn't so straight-cut, however. Their pupils are cat-like and narrow in bright light, and reflect light in the dark just like cat's eyes. Their beaks are bird-like, but open to reveal sharp teeth and a raspy tongue like a cat's.
The rest of the body works similarly. Their bodies look mostly feline, but anatomically draw in bird-like traits to reduce weight and keep them flight-capable. Their long feline tails end in feathered fans which resemble bird tails. Their front legs appear bird-like, at least compared to the hind legs, but are thicker and more cat-like than normal, with much shorter toes. Their hind legs, in comparison, are much more cat-like, but often feature scutes like the front legs, and long, non-retractable talons.  Their wings may be the only truly clear-cut part of their bodies, resembling bird wings with little divergence bar size.
A gryphon's body is covered with a mixture of fur and feathers, though the feet and sometimes legs are covered in bird-like scutes. Aside from the wings and tail-fan, most feathers on the body are soft and fur-like, more like semiplumes or down than 'proper' feathers, like a blend between fur and feather.
Many gryphons possess striking markings, but some are more plainly colored. Colors are often variations on browns, creams, and grays, but other colors are also known to occur, especially in domesticated griffins.

Vocalization

Gryphons are capable of a wide range of noises, which vary from cat-like to bird-like, and which are used for various purposes. All gryphons can purr, but none are capable of roaring, even those which resemble cats that can roar. They can also shriek, similar to certain birds of prey.
Their exact sounds vary per species, and often resemble those of felines and birds found in the same area.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Gryphons are obligate carnivores, and feed on meat, fish, or a mixture of the two. Some species also feed on carrion, but few will turn away from a fresh meal if the opportunity strikes. They are typically predators, skilled hunters, though hunting strategies vary per species.

Genetic Descendants

• Griffin

Scientific Name

Ornithofelis