Drake

A Drake is a draconic, quadrepedal lizard with sharp, raking claws, a wide maw, and a scaly hide that ranges in coloration. Though it shares many similar characteristics to Dragons, Drake have an intelligence similar to canine. Domesticated Drake are kept by Dragons that appreciate their loyalty and companionship. Drake are classified by their scale coloration and size.

The general scientific classification for a Drake is a Drakis Dogu.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Drake have four strong legs, each ending with sets of claws. The hind legs are used for raking while the forelegs feature hooked claws. Scales with vivid colors cover it's entire body, cresting at the upper and lower torso. Bony horns and crests form around the skull, jaws, and shoulders of the Drake. The mandible of the Drake widens around the neck, forming broad facial features. Two eyes are deep set into the skull along the muzzle. The Drake's wings spread from above it's shoulders and is supported by it's tail, which sways and cuts through the air as it glides. Drake use their wings for a variety of purposes, including regulating their body heat, crossing gaps or crevices, falling from heights, or for mating rituals.

The Drake has a small brain protected by a thick skull. As a carnivorous hunter, Drake are able to form packs to take down prey. Drake use their forked tongues to taste the air, much like a snake. Much like Draconians, Drake also possess a breath weapon- it is said that they were used to hunt Sijinn and that is how they gained the special organs necessary. Though it is more primitive, the breath weapon is based upon it's scale coloration. Drake are primarilly carnivorous but omnivorous species exist within the color groups.

Perception & Sensory Capabilities

Drake have exceptional eyesight, able to scan great areas whether on land or in the air. Their pupils and eyelids are especially adapted to seeing in either dark or bright places. In addition to a keen sense of sight, Drake also have a well developed sense of smell. Using a forked tongue, the Drake can lick the air to track it's prey over great distances. The Drake's only fault in senses is it's hearing. Due to their thick skulls, Drakes are prone to hearing conditions as they age.

Genetics and Reproduction

Drake are able to mate with other species of Drake but it is the dominant chromosomes which are passed on to offspring. Drake reproduce only a few times throughout their lives, usually with different partners, resulting in a clutch of about 3-5 eggs. As Drakelings mature, they will develop the traits of their parents.

Growth Rate & Stages

Drakes start life as small, winged reptiles known as Drakelings. Their long bodies will coil around their mother as they learn how to hunt from the parents. Male Drake are not a part of Drakeling tutelage. A Drakeling will go through several stages of molting, usually over a 2 year period, before it becomes a young Drake. Molting continues throughout a Drake's life. After another year, Male Drake become sexually mature, while Female Drake may mature months later. It is during this stage of development that a Male Drake may express aggressive behaviors. Once a Female becomes sexually mature (after 5 yrs), a pair may reproduce. The average life span of a Drake is about 10-12 yrs. Many health complications may affect a Drake as it reaches the end of it's Life.

Ecology and Habitats

Drake can be found in multiple environments though they prefer highland areas. Their diet will depend upon the exosystem around it. Drake only need to feed a few times in a month- they will spend time in a dormant sleep, usually followed after a molting period. Colder seasons will also force Drake's to feed more, until they can hibernate through the season. Drake activity picks up in warmer weather. More carnivorous Drake will spend more time in hibernal sleep while those that have mixed diets tend to rise much sooner. Since Drakes like to dig pits and caves, a den of Drake can contain anywhere between 5- 15 Drake at a time.

Additional Information

Domestication

Draconians have taken time to domesticate many species of Drake. Drakeling imprint upon the first thing they see when their eyes finally open. Therefore, a Draconian caretaker will attempt to be the first thing it sees, taking the place of it's mother. Though the Drakeling becomes more independent as it ages, the special process of rearing a Drakeling makes it loyal to it's Draconian owner. Species besides Draconian are unable to domesticate these creatures.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Drakeblood is as potent when it comes to crafting potions or elixirs. Their scales are also prized by armor smiths. Steaks can be made from it's meat- Drake and Drakeling Tail Soup is considered a delicacy in some regions.

Scientific Name

Drakis Dogu

Lifespan

20-30 yrs.

Average Height

5-8ft.

Average Weight

900-1000 lbs.

Average Length

8-10ft.