Phoenix

Basic Information

Anatomy

In many breeds of domesticated Phoenix there is no sexual dimorphism. Both the male and female have a comb and wattle, of which the size varies by breed, as well as long tail feathers and spurs on the backs of their legs.
Glands located on their wings and tail secrete an oil when the phoenix feels threatened. This oil has a low ignition point and is lit through thermomancy to defend against and ward off predators.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Phoenixes are omnivores. Though their diet usually consists of small mammals, reptiles, and insects, they may also eat seeds.
For domestic purposes, a diet consisting of only seeds is possible however it is recommended that the phoenix has some source of meat in its diet.
Using thermomancy to produce a heat map of their surroundings, phoenixes can often be seen foraging for small animals hidden under the ground.

Additional Information

Domestication

Phoenixes bred for ornamental purposes have vivid feather colorations, large comb and wattle, and long tail feathers.
Those bred for their eggs lean more towards wild phoenixes in coloration but have some of the exaggerated features of ornamental phoenixes.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Although phoenixes are harder to raise than chickens and produce less eggs, their eggs are not used primarily for food but to produce dyes. Phoenix eggs are a mottled mix of vibrant reds. Each patch of color has different concentrations of minerals and thus produce different colored dyes. The eggshells are broken into pieces and sorted by color before being ground into a variety of bright, red dyes.
Their feathers are also collected for display or ceremonial clothes by some cultures.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

An inherently strong control over thermomancy provides the birds with a sort of heat map with which they can find prey or identify predators.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Wild phoenixes have a neutral coloration featuring reddish browns with some vibrant reds mixed in.
Domesticated phoenixes are generally more vivid and feature a wider array of colors such as blues and greens.