Zvien

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Zvien possess leathery wings designed for gliding, long tails with a tuft which traps the fire-retardant oils they produce, floppy ears to protect their ear canals from smoke, long eyelashes to protect their eyes, mustaches to protect their nostrils, and strong fingers and toes designed for climbing.

Genetics and Reproduction

Zvien make nests in trees, climbing up the trunk to the tall branches and gliding down as needed. Zvien mate for life.

Growth Rate & Stages

Young Zvien spend the majority of their youth practicing climbing and learning proper grooming techniques from their parents; the Zvien offspring typically don't glide for the first time until they are ready to leave the nest.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The Zvien climb down chimneys to steal the cooking food, and manage this feat even with the fire burning thanks to the fire-retardant oils they groom into their fur. As they climb out of the chimney, the Zvien will often defecate, leaving a less than edible surprise waiting for the chef.

Additional Information

Domestication

Zvien are mischievous, but have been successfully tamed and trained to complete advanced tricks. Domesticated Zvien are often seen in street shows and used as pickpocket aides.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

Zvien are normally out of reach of the larger predators, but some larger birds kill and consume Zvien during the warmer years. However– similar to other warm-blooded creatures– the Zvien bury themselves in the snow (typically near their tree) during the winter and hibernate until the end of the Rimes; this allows predators that wouldn't normally be able to reach the gliding pests to dig for their sleeping bodies and gorge themselves (as Zvien burrow in groups of 4-8).

Scientific Name

Shadow

Lifespan

2 cycles

Average Height

1 ar

Average Length

3 fn