Bugbears
Bugbears are a massive humanoid race distantly related to, but larger and stronger than, goblins and hobgoblins.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Bugbears have extremely long arms and long fangs that stick out of their snout like face even when the mouth is closed.
Genetics and Reproduction
Bugbears are genetically very similar to goblins, and some mages theorize that they are in fact goblins, modified by either magic or strange breeding programs.
Bugbears typically have one cub at a time, though twins are possible.
Growth Rate & Stages
Bugbears mature quickly, reaching full adulthood by age 16, though they will continue to grow for another two to four years.
Ecology and Habitats
Bugbears prefer mountainous regions and cave systems. Their thick hide and fur make them highly suited for cool and damp climates, though they can survive relatively easily in warmer temperatures.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Bugbears are a carnivore race, getting the majority of their nutrition from meat sources. They can eat vegetables and fruits, though this cannot sustain them for very long.
Bugbears prefer to eat their meat cooked, even enjoying simple spices and vegetables as flavoring for their dishes.
Behaviour
Bugbears, like other goblinoids, have a reputation for being dim-witted and brutish. This claim is not unfounded, and like their kin, bugbears have easily provoked tempers and are prone to rages. Few bugbears overcome this flaw and their culture's brutal nature, though it is not impossible. Many bugbears are chaotic evil in alignment, favoring stealth and surprising their opponents.
Bugbear heroes, though rare, were heard of and could acquire significant renown if successful. Often the motivation for this change of heart comed from the rewards earned from virtue, which in the long term can be more pleasing than the short-term pleasures of evil behaviors.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Bugbears, like all goblinoids, can be found on all parts of Ghemjana. In Hestoria, they are prevalent in the mountains and rocky lands and throughout the Underdark.
Average Intelligence
Bugbears usually have lower than average intelligence, though not by much. This could be a byproduct of poor diet and lifestyle, as there have been recorded instances of bugbear scholars in more unscrupulous societies.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Large, hairy, wedge-shaped ears, heightened sense of smell, tough hide, claws, strong but nimble limbs.
Civilization and Culture
Beauty Ideals
Brushed fur and painted claws are considered very attractive. Long fangs are considered desirable on males, while longer ears on females are highly desired.
Major Language Groups and Dialects
Bugbears usually speak Goblin, and sometimes common, though their accent is often difficult to understand.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
Bugbear deities included Grankhul, the bugbear deity of hunting, senses, stealth, and surprise; and Skiggaret. Local pantheons often included a god of earth, a god of fertility, and a god of death.
Common Taboos
Unlike most creatures, bugbears are particularly susceptible to the effects of Bowen's flowers, which will knock them out within minutes. Using this flower or even having it on their person is considered highly aggressive to Bugbears, and they will react with anger.
History
Many scholars of the late 14th century DR believed that bugbears and goblins were both bred by the hobgoblins as slave races, with bugbears serving as elite soldiers.
More recently, bugbears have ventured out on their own, even establishing small tribal communities in mountainous regions.
Common Myths and Legends
Bugbears once had their own pantheon, led by Hruggek. Bugbears often decapitate their enemies as a way to honor Hruggek, who is said to do the same. From the Spellplague to the Second Sundering, the power of Hruggek was diminished and the god served as an exarch of Bane, the god of tyranny. However, after the Second Sundering, bugbears began to follow bugbear-specific deities such as Hruggek once more.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Bugbears are often found in goblin and hobgoblin tribes, acting as enforcers or muscle.
They can work alongside any species, so long as they are part of a structured hierarchy, or have a vested interest in the group.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Origin/Ancestry
Goblinoid
Lifespan
80 years
Average Height
7'0" to 8'0"
Average Weight
250 lbs to 350 lbs
Average Physique
Bugbears resemble hairy, feral goblins standing 7 feet (2.1 meters) tall. They take their name from their noses and claws, which are similar to those of bears. Their claws are not long and sharp enough to be used as weapons, so bugbears often armor and arm themselves with a variety of purloined gear, which are normally second-rate and in poor repair.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Yellow to reddish brown
Geographic Distribution
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