Wukali (wook-ah-lee)

Wulaki are large grazing reptiles that live in big herds and are seen commonly in open fields. They are mosts known for their colorful crests and crown of horns adorning they heads. They use these crests to fight for dominance, defense and intimidation.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Wukalis are mostly quadrupedal, but can stand on two legs to fight, to reach up in trees, or to get a better view of their surroundings. Their feet are similar to that of a cloven hoof, with two large middle-claws on the ground, and two smaller claws to the sides off the ground. Wukalis have a dense feather-covering that is usualy blue in color with a white underbelly and legs. The tail is long and has quill-like feathers that rattle when the wukali shakes its tail.
They have a short beak that connects to a dome that covers the skull, this dome in turn is connected to a large crest behind the head that sports 8 large horns. The crest has a pattern that resembles an eye, likely for intimidation. Males have larger and more brightly-colored crests than females.

Genetics and Reproduction

Wulakis live in large herd led by a dominant male. This male is the only one allowed to mate and will fight the other males to keep his status, however some of the smaller males will often mate with the females when the dominant bull is not near. Some females prefer the smaller males. Females will lay 1 -3 eggs per mating season.

Growth Rate & Stages

Wukali hatchlings start out very small and grow slowly, so they rely on the protection of the entire herd. They reach maturity around 5 years of age.

Ecology and Habitats

Wukalis prefer open grasslands where they can graze while keeping out for predators over the tall grass. They are well adapted for temperate habitats.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Wukalis are herbivores that ear primarily grasses and leaves.

Biological Cycle

Wukalis have a coat of feathers that is dense enough for them to survive the harsh climate on The breathing ridge , but despite this they prefer living near the base of the mountains and will even travel all the way to the coast during cold seasons. The only time they will migrate up to the mountains is during seasons that are unusually warm, or to avoid predators.

Behaviour

A dominant bull wukali can be very territorial, but smaller males are less so. Females usually have a calm demeanor unless their calves are threatened. Wukalis will socialize by grooming eachother and play-wrestle.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Wulakis can percieve a large spectrum of colors, along with their excellent vision.

Name Origin & Meaning

The name "wukali" comes from the varan words "wuk"=head, and "ali"=watch.

Lifespan

30 - 40 years

Average Height

1.3 - 1.6 meters (at the shoulder)

Average Weight

500 - 800 kg.

Average Length

2 - 3 meters (including tail)

Geographic Distribution

• Eastern savannah
• Ridge's tail
• The breathing ridge
• The sanctuary
• Western savannah

Terminology

• A male wuakali is called a bull.
• A female wukali is called a cow.
• A juvenile wukali is called a calf or hatchling.
• A group of wukali is called a herd.
• The plural of wukali is wukalis.