Behemoth Butterfly

If you’re interested, I’d recommend buying it now, before it comes out of the cocoon. It’ll be easier to train then, and you or your children can bond to it and have an excellent companion and a great novelty to show off to your friends. A bargain at only 500 gold!
-Haberonian merchant

Basic Information

Anatomy

The anatomy of the Behemoth Butterfly is nearly the same as that of the smaller species of its kind. The only discernible difference is that the Behemoth has a stinger that holds a paralyzing poison within. The stinger is not obvious to the casual observer, however, as it is retractable.

Growth Rate & Stages

The Behemoth goes through the same stages of growth and metamorphosis as a normal creature of its kind. As a caterpillar, it is much more fragile than before it changes, and cannot be ridden. It spends on average about six to eight weeks in caterpillar form, and then another eight to ten months in its cocoon.

Ecology and Habitats

Behemoths are found almost exclusively in temperate forests, although there are a few wealthy individuals who have started their own breeding stock. So long as the cocoons are not exposed to exceptionally frigid temperatures, they can easily thrive.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Behemoth Butterflies eat mostly leaves although they can also eat fruits and vegetables. They eat less than their size might make it seem except when they are in caterpillar form, when their appetites are more voracious.

Additional Information

Domestication

These are very easy to domesticate when very young. Those who choose to do so will find it easier if they are there when the butterfly emerges from its cocoon. When they are older, it is more difficult to befriend and domesticate them, although those with a more nature-focused outlook will find that patience is usually rewarded.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

These butterflies are used mostly as transportation for the smaller folk, such as fae and gnomes. The larger ones can carry halflings as well, but the more stout body type of these folk make it more difficult for most Behemoths to hold them for long.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

They are found mostly in the Silvermoon Forest, the Spooky Forest, and the Runic Forest, although they can also be found in some of the smaller forested areas.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The Behemoth has excellent eyesight in the light. However, when it's dark, the Behemoth is nearly blind, and even torches and other forms of limited light are of little help to it.
This butterfly does have an empathic sense that relates to others of its kind. This sense also extends to any to whom it bonds, usually its rider. This is how the rider communicates instructions to the Behemoth regarding where to go, when to turn, and the like.

Lifespan

5-10 years

Average Length

Body length can range from 3-5 feet.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Behemoths are found in a wide variety of colors and markings, much like other butterflies.