Equecorax

Mutated, twisted, corrupted, call them as you will. My equecorax is one of the few good things to come from the merging of worlds and I won't hear a single word otherwise!

The equecorax (plural equecorae) is a large, mutated creature resembling a cross between a horse and a raven. While less physically capable than a well bred warhorse, equecorae exhibit far greater resistance against the Anima of malevolent spirits. This, combined with a nearly dog-like affection for their trainers, handlers and riders, has made them an ever increasingly important asset for the Order of the Raven's cavalry.

Basic Information

Anatomy

The majority of the body of an equecorax resembles that of a horse, with a number of morphological mutations that resemble avian body parts. An equecorax can have one or more of these mutations, which include: hollow bones, avian beaks and skull structures, avian forelegs and talons, and large feathered tails. Very rarely, an equecorax's body can take on a bipedal form, with their forelimbs becoming large flight capable wings.
Occasionally, wild equecorae have such extreme physical mutations they are almost unrecognizable. These are truly abominations, with all manner of wild deformities.

Genetics and Reproduction

Despite their mammalian origins and ancestry from horses, equecorae are oviparous, laying a single egg per clutch.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Equecorae are omnivorous, with a preferred diet of a combination of meat, leafy vegetables and seeds. They are able to subsist on the same fodder as horses for short periods, but their health will start to suffer if not supplemented with fresh food for too long.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Almost immediately since their discovery, equecorae have entered service as riding animals. Due to their rarity, they are almost exclusively found in the private stables of the nobility.
The Order of the Raven uses equecorax in some of their cavalry divisions.
Several attempts have been made to ride flight capable individuals, however none have have been successful.

Average Intelligence

Equecorae are more intelligent than their horse ancestors, roughly on par with domestic dogs, with which they show a similar level of affection and obedience towards their riders and trainers.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Equecorae have similar sensory capabilities to ravens, with their acute perception of Anima and the Spirit world.

Scientific Name

Equus Corvus

Lifespan

35

Average Height

130 cm

Average Weight

380 kg

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Equecorae, much like horses, are covered in fur and possess the same full range of colouration an markings. Bay, sorrel, black, white, etc. In addition, most of their backs are covered in black feathers, with especially large feathers making up their manes. These feathers blaze in white in the presence of Anima, much like those on ravens do.