Huītzilōpōchtli

This species of humanoid has distinctive avian characteristics, including a beak and feathers. Nearly any patch of skin can develop feathers, but the longest are reserved for lines running down the outside of the arms and legs. Their feet become birdlike, including the development of claws up to four inches long. Some huītzilōpōchtli grow magnificent tails. Although not capable of flight, huītzilōpōchtli are never-the-less striking in appearance, not least because they tend towards unusually loud voices. Many style their hair, if they still have it, into a tall mohawk to complement their feathers. The species' principle advantages are reduced susceptibility to extremes of temperature and enhanced running and walking speed. According to legend it was one of the primary species in the lost Western Safe Zone. In modern times, it is seldom seen outside the western edges of the Central Safe Zone, near the Vastness.