Dlinndald (Dlyhn-dawld)
The Dlinndald (Arc. Scurrasaurus dlindald) is a theropod dinosaur and the last remaining member of the Scurrasauridae family. It is native to the vast forests of southern and eastern Urenburg.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The Dlinndald is a large dinosaur that can reach impressive lengths of up to 21 feet (approximately 6 meters). One of its most distinctive features is its slender, serpentine body, which is reminiscent of a ferret's slinkyness. This body shape allows it to navigate through the dense growth of its forest habitat with remarkable ease. Their long body is supported by a pair of theropod hind legs and a pair of clawed arms with which they knucklewalk. The Dlinndald's head is adorned with a unique facial structure, which resembles the face of an owl, with a mask-like twist to it's appearance and plumicorns (feather-horns) extending from the top of their head. The feather patterns of this "mask" mimic a wide smile and mischevious eyes. This facial structure serves multiple purposes, including enhancing its senses, intimidation capabilities and camouflage. The creature's eyes are forward-facing, providing excellent binocular vision, crucial for its predatory lifestyle.
Genetics and Reproduction
Dlinndalds reproduce through internal fertilization. During the breeding season, which occurs annually, males engage in elaborate courtship displays to attract potential mates. These displays often involve vocalizations and intricate dance movements.
Females lay a clutch of eggs in concealed nests within the forest, usually in well-protected locations. They carefully guard these nests and provide warmth and protection for the developing embryos until they hatch. The incubation period lasts several months.
Once hatched, the hatchlings are highly vulnerable and rely on their mother's care and protection. She feeds them regurgitated food until they are large and strong enough to hunt on their own. The mother maintains a strong bond with her offspring during their juvenile stage, teaching them essential survival skills.
Females lay a clutch of eggs in concealed nests within the forest, usually in well-protected locations. They carefully guard these nests and provide warmth and protection for the developing embryos until they hatch. The incubation period lasts several months.
Once hatched, the hatchlings are highly vulnerable and rely on their mother's care and protection. She feeds them regurgitated food until they are large and strong enough to hunt on their own. The mother maintains a strong bond with her offspring during their juvenile stage, teaching them essential survival skills.
Ecology and Habitats
map of the dlinndald habitat range.
The dlinndald are native to the temperate forests Urenburg, which are spread across the south of the province.
Dietary Needs and Habits
The Dlinndald is a carnivorous predator, primarily feeding on smaller mammals, birds, and other forest-dwelling creatures. Its beak-like jaws are lined with sharp teeth that are ideal for tearing through flesh and crushing bones. Their massive claws supported by their strong arm muscles are as deadly as 3 katana swords paired together. It often hunts by ambushing its prey from concealment within the thick trees of Urenevsk forests.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Shed feathers of the dlinndald have many practical uses.
The most common one is the production of medallions dedicated to Tohosh, the Zvenarok dlinndald goddess of learning, intelligence, and arts. These medallions are often worn by artists, writers, musicians, bards, librarians, teachers, scholars, and many more who wish to have the blessing of Tohosh during their labor.
The unique patterns on Dlinndald feathers make them highly prized for decorative purposes. People may use them to adorn clothing, headpieces, and hats (most often seen on shapkas and ushankas). They are also incorporated into jewelry, such as earrings and hairpins.
Besides decoration, dlinndald feathers have alchemical purposes. When used in brewing potions, they are capable of restoring magiya, increasing critical thinking, and fortifying conjuration and illusion spells.
Dlinndald feathers are treasured by collectors aswell.
The most common one is the production of medallions dedicated to Tohosh, the Zvenarok dlinndald goddess of learning, intelligence, and arts. These medallions are often worn by artists, writers, musicians, bards, librarians, teachers, scholars, and many more who wish to have the blessing of Tohosh during their labor.
The unique patterns on Dlinndald feathers make them highly prized for decorative purposes. People may use them to adorn clothing, headpieces, and hats (most often seen on shapkas and ushankas). They are also incorporated into jewelry, such as earrings and hairpins.
Besides decoration, dlinndald feathers have alchemical purposes. When used in brewing potions, they are capable of restoring magiya, increasing critical thinking, and fortifying conjuration and illusion spells.
Dlinndald feathers are treasured by collectors aswell.
Average Intelligence
Dlinndalds are capable of learning from their environment and experiences. They can adapt their hunting strategies and techniques based on the availability of prey and changing conditions within their forest habitat. This ability to learn from their surroundings suggests a level of cognitive flexibility. While not on par with highly intelligent animals like dolphins or primates, Dlinndalds are capable of some level of problem-solving. They may use their intelligence to outwit prey or competitors in the forest. Additionally, their penchant for pulling pranks on travelers suggests a degree of cunning and an understanding of cause and effect. Their tendency to play pranks on folk indicates a certain level of playful behavior. This form of playfulness may serve social bonding purposes or even provide mental stimulation.
Scientific Name
Scurrasaurus dlindald
Lifespan
40 years
Conservation Status
Vulnerable
Average Height
3,6m / 12'
Average Weight
2900kg / 6400lbs
Average Length
6,4m / 21ft
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
russet feathers with the face and underbelly having a creamy, muted brown color, and black facial details
Related Organizations
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