Sleipnir

"In all my studies I have no seen something so curious. These horse-creatures of six legs bear crystal hooves and marks upon their head that glow- they seem as wild as a Douradan stallion- yet even the fiercest allow an elf atop their back as though they had been saddle-broken since foalhood. Yet if any other attempts to even draw near these beautiful creatures, they would be lucky if the herd simply ran off. More often than not I've seen foolish boys on dares bitten and broken for their attempts to ride." 
-From the research notes of Master Hunter Xion
Sleipnir are herbivores that are exclusively found in the icy country of Bn'ergia. They appear akin to horses in their shape and appearance, however they bear six legs instead of four and each of their hooves are made of a crystalline material that appears to have bioluminescent properties. In addition the sleipnir bear markings down the forehead to muzzle that have similar bioluminescent capabilities.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Sleipnir are hexapod creatures with hooves that, despite their glowing crystalline construction appear identical in construction to a regular horse's hoof. In addition they have markings that run from the forehead to muzzle which vary wildly in design, although they, alongside the hooves, appear to glow at night in a manner akin to bioluminescence. In any other way however, sleipnir are identical to a regular horse, including their internal skeletal structure and organ makeup.

Genetics and Reproduction

Sleipnir reach sexual maturity at around four years old and gestate for around 350 days. A newborn foal is capable of running within minutes of being born. The foal stays with their mother for around a year after being born, but often remains close until two or three. Like many herd creatures, sleipnir tend to remain with their herd unless they break away to start their own, although amongst these particular creatures that is exceedingly rare. Female sleipnir usually have a single foal, although they are capable of bearing twins on a very rare occasion.

Growth Rate & Stages

Sleipnir are born and usually spend around two to three years near their mother as they grow rather slowly in comparison to other creatures of the cold plains of Bn'ergia. Sleipnir reach full size and weight by around two years old on average. Most Sleipnir live between sixty and eighty years.

Ecology and Habitats

Sleipnir thrive fairly well in almost any environment, however they are exclusively found in Bn'ergia. Attempts at bringing them to other countries and breeding have proved unsuccessful, although the cause is uncertain.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Sleipnir are herbivores and thrive on the grasses, leaves and brush of the lands. They are capable of easily digging back snow with their multiple hooves.

Lifespan

60-80 years

Average Height

19-24 hands

Average Weight

2,200lbs to 3,500lbs

Geographic Distribution

• Bn'ergia