Roc

Rocs are colossal avians, the size of mountains, who lair in high mountains and who wing over coast and sea, preying on whales, elephants, and dire animals, usually dropping the animal from a great height so that it splatters on the ground. They also menace ships in the region, and are fierce defenders of their nests and eggs (which, being immense, are often sought out as food sources).

Basic Information

Anatomy

Rocs were birds of such immense size that they were known to snatch horses (and their riders), elephants, and even whales to feed upon.They preyed upon large creatures such as cattle, horses, and elephants. The roc swept down upon prey, seized it in its powerful talons, and carried it off to its lair to feed. If the prey resisted, the roc would strike with its beak.

The lair of a roc was be a vast nest of trees, branches, and the like. Its treasure was strewn about, for the creature did not place any value upon it. Rocs were occasionally tamed and used by giants. Rocs often guarded the nests of simurghs until they were mature.

Rocs were usually solitary, but sometimes found in mated pairs.

Genetics and Reproduction

Roc eggs, though dangerous to harvest, are huge and flavorful, and can provision an entire ship. Roc feathers are also quite valuable, as they are light, but durable, and immense to boot. Rocs can be trained like any other animal, but doing so is quite an endeavor for anything of human size -- simply keeping the creature in a nest and giving it enough food is a daunting challenge.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Low-light Vision

Average Height

30'

Average Weight

8,000

Average Length

80'

Average Physique

Rocs attack prey or annoyances with claws and beak. Their favorite hunting tactic is to grab prey with their talons, soar up into the air, and then drop them from a great height. They have also been known to employ boulders to pulverize ships at sea.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Dark brown to golden