Jotunhel
“Jotunhel are mammalian semi-aquatic fliers who rely on a varied diet of fish and land creatures. They are well balanced fliers and swimmers. Their fluff and blubber protects their body from hard hits.” — Description in-game
Basic Information
Anatomy
Jotunhel possess sharp fangs to help pierce the flesh of their victims.
An extra-long tail helps them to balance and make sharp aerial turns. A shark-like fin on their tail enables them to move quickly through water. "Paws" on the undersides of their wings are used in conjunction with their legs to move while on land. As if that weren't enough, Jotunhel also have fur and blubber to keep them warm in their natural habitat.
While Jotunhels have both claws and teeth, they only attack using their teeth. While sharp and wicked-looking, Jotunhels' claws actually evolved to help them traverse the rocky and icy cliffs of their habitat.
Biological Traits
Jotunhels typically weigh around 6500 pounds. On average, female Jotunhels weigh less than their male counterparts. This is because in the event of a fight, a Jotunhel with more weight might struggle to escape. Since females are the only ones able to produce (and carry) new Jotunhels, it is imperative that they survive. If a female Jotunhel senses a threat, she sends her mate to find it and proceed from there.
Jotunhels are a sexually dimorphic species. Males have extra fur located along their chins and cheeks, while females have extra whiskers located above their two sets of eyes.
Genetics and Reproduction
Jotunhel breed in the spring. They mate for life and will defend their mate at all costs. During the early summer months, the female will make a nest. Nesting locations vary wildly as Jotunhel can traverse land, sea, and sky, though most Jotunhel choose to build their nests at high altitudes.
Average Clutch Size
Jotunhel typically lay two to four eggs. (W.I.P. section)During Gestation
During the gestation period, the female remains in her nest, relying on her mate to supply her with food. When she requires water, she and her mate switch places, leaving the male to guard the nest while his mate gets water[1]. Once their eggs hatch, both Jotunhel return to their normal behavior, which includes bringing each other food when needed. Jotunhel families always travel together for safety.Ecology and Habitats
Jotunhels typically inhabit mountain ranges, tundras, and frigid oceans. However, they have been known to travel more than thirty miles away from their grounds in search of food during times when prey is scarce.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Jotunhel subsist on a diet of fish and medium-sized herbivores.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Two sets of eyes help Jotunhel to spot prey from the skies.
Civilization and Culture
Courtship Ideals
Owing largely to the species' warrior nature and tradition, combat prowess is prized in Jotunhel courtship rituals. The more adept a Jotunhel is at combat directly corresponds with how likely they are to find a mate.
[1] It should be noted that in same-sex Jotunhel couples raising abandoned or orphaned eggs, there is no pattern or method of determining which Jotunhel brings their mate food. Further research suggests that it can vary even with the same couple.
