Bog-singer
The bull-throated bog-singer is found exclusively in Vardanta's swampy lowlands. Because of their unique social organization, these small drakes cannot be trained in messenger service. Singer broods – also known as “choirs” – can be domesticated, but this is done solely for the purposes of entertainment. Ancient records do exist of attempts made to utilize entire choirs as couriers and interceptors during the reign of the second Maharajah; these experiments were disastrous.
Basic Information
Genetics and Reproduction
Foaling, when it takes place, always begins in the early spring. Singer nests consist of mud-built “lofts” in swamps, fens, or shallow lakes, usually near shore. Lofts are always built above the water but with easy access to it. Two or three deeper tunnels leading to underwater sally ports are typical. Singers’ social structure is unique among Vardanta’s small drake breeds. When the population of a loft has reached maximum capacity, usually about forty to fifty individuals, females will cease ovulation. The population of the resulting choir will therefore remain stable for long periods of time, typically ten to fifteen years. It is during these “rests,” that singers give evidence of their most unique and characteristic abilities. After a rest period, dominant males will leave the original loft with a select group of females to establish a new choir.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Singers are omnivores, with a preference for plants. They eat water weeds, shore reeds, as well as associated seeds and roughage. They will eat small fish, frogs, minnows, and smaller birds, but this is rare. Singers are particularly fond of kernel maize, sliver almonds, and door nuts. Those who live within singers’ habitat will have no trouble attracting these little dragons, if they are willing to stock a feeder with such delicacies.
Behaviour
Singers live in medium-large “choirs.” Choirs will consist of four to five males, nine to twelve females, and associated young. As their names suggest, singers are incredibly vocal. They are also extraordinarily intelligent. When combined with the stable social structure of singers’ choirs, the result is a dazzling array of songs, hymns, chants, and choruses.
Geographic Distribution
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