Osuar

Osuars live primarily in savannahs. They are large carnivorous flightless birds, though accounts exist of them gliding. Their wings are tipped with large claws, and their beaks are serrated. These birds are capable of running at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, and use their speed to chase unwary prey. They use their bulk, claws, and speed to dispatch prey upon catching up with it. An osuar caught standing still will also kick any would-be attackers to bring its talons into play.
When osuars are at bodies of water, they will sometimes wade in to fish. In deep enough water osuars will swim, keeping only its head above water to breathe. Its feathers are resistant to water, allowing it to dry off almost immediately upon leaving the water.
The most unusual feature of the osuar are the filamentous feathers that protrude from the base of its beak. These wiry feathers appear to be a sensory apparatus that detects changes in air currents, and may contribute to the osuar's high-speed reflexes.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

Osuars are hard-wired to chase down weak prey, but otherwise are content to mind their own business. During mating season, however, males become extraordinarily aggressive, attacking anything it perceives to be a possible rival.

Genetics and Reproduction

Osuars lay clutches of three to seven eggs. These eggs are concealed in piles of brush, then left. Baby osuars hunt insects or small animals such as lizards within an hour of hatching, thought only about a third of baby osuars survive to adulthood.

Growth Rate & Stages

Osuars are able to move within an hour of hatching. They grow to full size within three months, but do not have adult plumage for another two months.

Ecology and Habitats

Osuars prefer semiarid grasslands, though they can also thrive in areas with lakes or rivers.

Dietary Needs and Habits

It is an obligate carnivore that hunts fairly regularly. It usually goes after creatures of equal or smaller size (e.g. antelopes) that appear to be injured. It may hunt humans if they appear weak.

Biological Cycle

The metabolism of the osuar slows down during dry seasons, reducing its need to hunt but also its speed and activity.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Osuars may form flocks during mating season, but hunt individually.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Osuar eggs are often harvested for food, and osuar feathers are used in clothing. Osuar meat is usually too tough for a good meal, though desparate individuals can keep it down.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Mostly located near the equator wherever grasslands occur

Average Intelligence

Pretty low. Osuars will attack their reflection or spots of reflected light, and will sometimes forget about prey if it's hiding out of view.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Osuars have excellent eyesight and a 180 degree field of view. They lack a sense of smell.

Lifespan

15 years

Conservation Status

Osuars are plentiful within their natural habitat.

Average Height

6"

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Osuars are orange with black streaks.