Sand Wyrms

Basic Information

Anatomy

A gigantic, serpent-like creature. They have no legs or other appendages, and move by burrowing through the sand, causing great tremors. Their mouths are as wide as a human is tall and are covered in sharp teeth on all sides.

Genetics and Reproduction

They typically reproduce by shapeshifting into a human for a short period of time, mating with a human man, before disappearing into the desert. They hatch broods of 3-5 eggs after a year gestating. If they are already raising a brood, they will not seek another mate.

Growth Rate & Stages

It takes about around 40 to 50 years to raise young from hatching to maturity. Like other Dragons, they will typically live up to 200 years, or a little bit more.

Ecology and Habitats

In their natural form, Sand Wyrms require a large expanse with deep swathes of sand. Their bodies are specifically adapted to survive and move in sand dunes, and they cannot permanently survive outside of such environments.

Dietary Needs and Habits

When active, they hunt by detecting the tremors of organisms walking above ground. They then emerge from beneath to ground to catch them in their jaws and consuming them whole. They are inactive for long stretches of the time, and for that reason, do not require too much food. They also show the ability to consume and digest human food whilst in human form. They are hated by Desert Elves for stealing and eating their livestock.

Biological Cycle

They hibernate for large stretches of the year, and tend to be more active with the rainy season. Because they pose a significant danger to those traversing the Great Expanse, Desert Elves adjust their travelling patterns to avoid travelling during the rainy season.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Sand Wyrms are largely solitary, only forming social groups when a mother Sand Wyrm is rearing her children. Upon maturation, the children will then leave to set out on their own.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

They possess no eyes, and remain blind even when in human form. They detect their prey by detecting vibrations in the ground. They also possess the ability to shapeshift into a humanoid form, but it's a difficult task and cannot be maintained for too long.

Lifespan

~200 years

Average Height

10 - 20 feet

Average Length

300 - 500 meters

Geographic Distribution

• The Great Expanse