You'tlaai (Yoh-Tlai)

Commonly found living among the jungles of Xaexl, the Youtlaai (also known as Night Haunters) are a predatory species of reptile. Best known for the glowing manes they use to hunt prey, the You'tlaai are considered by many to be one of the stranger creatures to inhabite this region of Taeva.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The You'tlaai has a quadrupedal body similar to that of a monitor lizard, with a tail, a reptilian snout, and four clawed feet. Additionally, they possess petal-like frills around their head that they keep folded closed when not in use.

Genetics and Reproduction

The Youtlaai are egg-laying creatures.

Ecology and Habitats

The You'tlaai are most commonly found in warm, humid rainforests.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The You'tlaai primarily eats insects and small mammals, though they will scavenge off of the corpses of larger creatures if neccesary. You'taai are primarily ambush predators, using their luminous frills to entice prey into coming closer to them.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

The You'tlaai has a head similar to that of a large, predatory lizard, and a crest of petal-like frills around their head that can be expanded and folded away on command. these frills are bioluminescent, and are used both to hunt prey and attract mates.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

The You'tlaai are most commonly found throughout the jungles of Xaexl, though some are also found in the subtropical forests of Xuria as well.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

You'tlaai can see by heat, and use their forked tongues to smell the air.

Lifespan

15 years

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The body of the You'tlaai is almost pitch black, allowing them to hide in the darkness of the jungle nights. Their eyes and tongue are a solid white and seem to emit a faint glow, and their bioluminescent frills glow in shifting patterns of light green, blue, and pink, all of which they use to entice curious prey into approaching them.