Basilisk

Basilisks are immensely long serpents whose gaze can kill, or petrify if viewed through some sort of filter. In addition, they have large fangs loaded with lethal venom. It is believed they split off from other reptiles somewhere in the very beginning of evolution; records of basilisks date back to ancient times.

Basic Information

Anatomy

A basilisk's skeletal and muscular structure are that of any snake, except much larger. Its scales are a faded green, almost grey, with a yellow underbelly.

Genetics and Reproduction

Basilisks are formed when a snake or toad's egg is incubated by a cockerel, an exceptionally rare event.

Growth Rate & Stages

Basilisks grow fairly quickly, depending on their diet. A well-fed basilisk will shed its skin at an alarming rate, shedding at least once every week, if not sooner. By the time it has reached the size of a young adult, it begins to slow down, as it can no longer easily find food large enough.

Ecology and Habitats

Basilisks, once they are hatched, will try to make their way to the warmest area they can find. Usually this is somewhere near the equator, though jungles of any kind will suffice.

Dietary Needs and Habits

A basilisk is only satisfied with the largest prey, and will hunt big cats or large constrictor snakes, like boas and pythons. This makes them a threat to primarily naga and Lamia. Unfortunately, a basilisk's favorite prey are fire dragons, due to their innately high body heat and immense size, and if they sense one, they will expend all their effort to kill and eat it.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Basilisk fangs are renowned for their incredibly lethal venom. It can kill almost any creature within a few minutes. In black markets and underground dealings, it is a poison in incredibly high demand. Basilisk scales are the next best thing to dragon scales, used for armor, and are almost as durable. Basilisk eyes are used as decoration in staves or some jewelry, since its lethal glare continues even in death.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Jungles and other hot areas

Average Intelligence

Slightly lower than human

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

• Thermoreception: Like most snakes, basilisks can sense thermal radiation using special organs on or around its nose. However, basilisks have a much greater radius to which this is effective, and can also sense creatures approaching from behind or above them. Magic that gives off any kind of extreme temperature, like pyromancy or cryomancy, are little threat to a basilisk.

Scientific Name

Dendroaspis jamesoni imperium

Lifespan

200-500 years

Conservation Status

Data Deficient

Average Height

6-7 feet (183-213 cm)

Average Weight

9000-10000 lbs (4082-4536 kg)

Average Length

360 feet (120 yards)