Etik

The largest land predator in the world, this pack hunter is deadly, stealthy, and known to attack without provocation or hunger.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Both the front and hind legs have 6 sharp, retractable claws, two of which could be considered opposing digits. They have a short, sturdy neck that supports a powerful skull with massive jaws. Short dorsal spines can be raised when threatened. Their tail is nearly the length of their body and helps them keep balance while climbing and running.

Biological Traits

Males are typically larger than females with larger dorsal spines and a more colorful coat.

Genetics and Reproduction

A female may have two or three pups each litter; offspring usually spend upwards of four years with their maternal pack before being chased off so the mother can again reproduce. Gestation is approximately 1 year long.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Males remain in grassy, open areas unless they are looking for a mate. Females prefer to remain in dense forests. Both sexes will create packs with up to 12 individuals of the same sex to hunt. Several instances of recurring, monogamous pairs have been reported.

Domestication

No successful domestication has ever been reported.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Etiks have one of the strongest senses of smell in the world, capable of detecting blood over 7 miles away. Their vision is binocular and they are cathemeral hunters; able to see both in regular and low light conditions has given them an edge over other creatures.

Lifespan

40 years

Conservation Status

The species was close to extinction by 5300 KA after being widely hunted for its coat and ivory. It was placed on the protected species list and has since made a full recovery. It was removed from the protected list in 6712 KA and mostly lives on biological preserves. Animals outside the reserves may still be hunted to ensure population management.

Average Height

3' to 4' at the shoulder

Average Weight

Females average 375lbs while males are typically closer to averaging 450lbs.

Average Length

From nose to the base of the tail, the longest Etik ever recorded was 9', but most average around 7' long. Etik tails are usually 3' to 4' feet long when full grown.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Females are a dull green with brown and black spots and light underbellies. Year-round, males display a dull green coat with golden patches on the shoulders and brown/reddish spots. Both species have ivory dorsal spines, but males' are longer.