Schrecken

Schrecken are a vicious, winged beast that call the mountains of Ersterwald their home. Swooping down from their nests in the hours of twilight, their calls are reminiscent of the high-pitch sound of metal scraping against metal. With an average wingspan of 18 feet and a body the size of young cow they are able to lift prey high into the air where they will drag them relentlessly through the treetops or drop them upon the mountainside until it perishes. Massive talons, several inches long help them with accomplishing this. Taking advantage of the difficulty in seeing at the end of the day, they are not so foolish as to let out a cry until after they have made their dive from several hundred feet above and captured a meal. Once its food has been...tenderized...they lift it once more and retreat to their nests in the cliffs to feed their young. Beaks of around a foot long with serrated, razor sharp edges help them to easily tear flesh apart.
Responsible for the devastation of the gnomish village of Ziel, the Schrecken have taken many away to their doom. At the time, the gnomes had little to defend themselves from such assaults. The use of Ersterwald gems as bright light sources and the arrival of humans with their firearms have kept attacks of the Schrecken from seriously threatening Gadael. However, they remain a problem for the miners, traveling to their work via the steam gondola. On multiple occasions, an early rising Schrecken has assailed the gondola returning to the village at the end of the work day.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Massive bird-like creature. Two wings, two sets of talons.

Genetics and Reproduction

Egg-layers

Ecology and Habitats

Mountainous terrain

Dietary Needs and Habits

Carnivorous

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Keen low-light vision