Aarakocra

The Aarakocra, sometimes referred to as Birdfolk by the other races, are masters of aerial combat. The Aarakocra of Vuria differ from the Aarakocra of other worlds in that they are a native species as opposed to immigrants from the Elemental Pillar of Air (Plane of Air.)

Basic Information

Biological Traits

From below, aarakocra look much like large birds. Only when they descend to roost on a branch or walk across the ground does their humanoid appearance reveal itself. Standing upright, aarakocra might reach 5 feet tall, and they have long, narrow legs that taper to sharp talons.

Growth Rate & Stages

The Aarakocra of Vuria reach maturity around 15 years of age.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Aarakocra primarily eat fish and small game, but take full advantage of other food sources when they can. Berries, nuts, seeds, honey, rice, and ferns are often used to supplement their diets. Insects are gathered and even dried to serve as rations for hunting parties.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Aarakocra's heads complete the avian appearance, being something like a parrot or eagle with distinct tribal variations.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Aarakocra prefer remote habitats in old forests and high mountains far from the other races. As such, they can be found in sizable numbers the frontier of Northern Lamera and in the hinterlands of The Reach.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Male names: Harth, Kaneli, Mazli, Nekk, Teba Female names: Amali, Bedoli, Cecili, Laissa, Medili Neutral names: Crian, Khilo, Zewe, Iashek

Gender Ideals

Most male Aarakocra strive to reach perfection in archery and hunting, while female Aarakocra strive to perfect other pursuits such as singing, crafting, and the like. These ideals are by no means enforced, as any Aarakocra can rise to meet the needs of the village or choose their own destiny.

Relationship Ideals

Much like elves, Aarakocra find the concept of remaining with one partner for life foreign and restricting. They may change mates from season to season and are notorious for being romantic flirts, regardless of whether or not one is married.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Aarakocra speak Trade Common and Aarakocra.

Common Etiquette Rules

It is customary to bow to one's elder, regardless of race. Some haughty elves interpret this as a reverence to their race, but actually merely an acknowledgement of the elf's age.

Common Dress Code

Aarakocra tend to wear very light armor in battle or simple pieces of cloth and leather for clothing, preferring less restricting garments to allow them to fly.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Within Aarakocra culture, history is passed down through song and verse. Bards who can share their own stories through song and poetry, especially those of heroic deeds, will always be welcomed in an Aarakocra village. Elders are highly respected and looked up to as leaders of Aarakocra society.

Common Taboos

Confinement terrifies the Aarakocra. To be grounded, trapped underground, or imprisoned by the cold, unyielding earth is a torment few Aarakocra can withstand. Disrespecting one's elders is an egregious sin to the eyes of an Aarakocra and if one isn't exiled for this offense within a tribe, they definitely become social outcasts.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Due to their relatively isolationist habitats, few other races have made regular contact with the Aarakocra. A Sylvan Elf may see something of a kindred spirit in an Aarakocra as both possess an affinity for nature and simple living. Aarakocra may view a Human or a Dwarf with a degree of wariness as extensive logging or mining my threaten their livelihoods.

Lifespan

70 years

Average Height

5'

Average Weight

80 lbs - 100 lbs

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Aarakocra's plumages come in a wide range of colors. Behind their crests, their hair grows long and wild, and many keep it in braids. Their appearances vary greatly, but males tend to have cool colored plumage while women have warm colored feathers. Their feathers provide a great deal of insulation, protecting them from the cold winds of their homelands.