Bittac

A Bittac is in some ways similar to a fox and cat. They are favorites of wizards and witches who employ familiars. This is because they can smell certain types of magic, and hear others. While this ability isn't as reliable as other methods, it is constant and can provide a great warning when dealing with unexpected magic.

Basic Information

Genetics and Reproduction

Male Bittacs are known as Reynards, Female Bittacs as Fixens. Babies are called kits and groups as Skulks or Pools (Due to their penchant for living near magic pools). 
Most are birthed in groups of 2 to 6 kits who stay with their parents for the first year of life. A rare few are born singly and may have a second tail. These are seen as good luck and a twin tailed Bittac tail is often kept after their death as a good luck charm.

Ecology and Habitats

Bittacs live just about anywhere someone has brought them as a pet. Several sub-species exist that have become adapted to various environments, either by nature or arcane intervention it isn't known.

• Snow Bittacs have developed thicker fur, they have lost their sense for magic but have gained a sense for heat sources, allowing them to find prey and warmth is cold environments. 
• Hoary Bittacs have shaggy long ear fur and a penchant for stealing foods, they are faster than other Bittacs and are most often found in jungle environments.
• Pale Nosed Bittacs are the longest living sub-species of Bittac, often used as pets and familiars for Elves as they last longer than other varieties.
• Raccoon Bittacs are a lesser known variety with few specimens available.
• Blue Bittacs seem to be related to a cross breading effort with Blue Cats and are the largest variety at almost two feet tall.

Dietary Needs and Habits

As omnivores they will eat a variety of plants and animals. Preferring fatty and protein rich sources when available, they are also fond of berries, some tree barks, and ground tubers. Wild Bittacs are hunters primarily, and foragers secondarily. Primarily hunting cats, rats, voles, bugs and fish, they enjoy Hornacs  when they can be feed by sentient races.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Its ability to sense magic makes Bittac's prized for magical research, great companions to druids and good pets.

5e Rules:  Use Cat stat block but add the following ability:
Sense Magic: On a roll of 6 on a d6 the Bittac can sense the presence of magic. It cannot sense the school or exact location but can detect the magical presence. A Skulk (group) of Bittac at least 4 in size can always sense magic around.

Origin/Ancestry

Unknown

Lifespan

20-60 years depending on variety

Average Height

10 inches to 2 feet depending on variety