Aarakocra (Arah-Koke-Rah)

Hailing from the island nation of Palnoré, the Aarakocra have resided on the island and flown amongst its high trees for as long as history remembers. They were there before the Elves of Palnore certainly.
The Aarakocra are most known for their appearance. Just barely humanoid, Aarakocra look closer to giant birds of prey with long legs. Mostly they resemble Eagles, Hawks, and Crows. Though some look more like Owls, which is seen as a holy sign of greatness in their society. The reason for this differentiation in appearance is unclear and the Aarakocra seem in no hurry to explain it.
The resemblance of aarakocra to birds isn’t limited to physical features. Aarakocra display many of the same mannerisms as ordinary birds. They are fastidious about their plumage, frequently tending their feathers, cleaning and scratching away any tiny passengers they might have picked up. When they deign to descend from the sky, they often do so near pools where they can catch fish and bathe themselves.
Many aarakocra punctuate their speech with chirps, sounds they use to convey emphasis and to shade meaning, much as a human might through facial expressions and gestures. An aarakocra might become frustrated with people who fail to pick up on the nuances; an aarakocra’s threat might be taken as a jest and vice versa.
On their home island they live along the Elves of the island as well as the Palnori (the giant owls of the island) and worship Palnor. The Aarakocra in specific represent the spiritual side of the society, which also includes most of the society as a whole. This part of the society is called the Haladetari, which is both a title and organization.
Aarakocra are rarely seen outside Palnore, but exiles aren't entirely unheard of, and some minor families have set up homes and villages amongst other forests and mountains of Efaanu and even beyond.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Almost all Aarakocra are found in Palnoré, with any found elsewhere either being exiles or the rare descendants of families that left the island long ago.

Origin/Ancestry

Theoretically, birds

Lifespan

On average 45 Years

Average Height

4'6" - 5'6"