Centaur
Centaurs are a species native to Harmony, believed to be descended from the pre-Disjunction meddling of Mother Make Me — whom they call Maker. They are thus descendant of the Maika. Centaurs are rare on Glüm, for they breed rarely, tend to keep to themselves, and have often fought losing conflicts with neighbouring species.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Centaur anatomy is a curious blend between a Human and that of an early three-toed horse. They are vertebrates with six limbs: two strong hind legs ending in three splayed toes, and two smaller forelimbs that sprout close together from the shoulders. Centaurs have a tail that extends out approximately a third of their body length, and their spines are particularly strong, allowing them to easily rear up on their hind legs, or face "forward" with their back four legs meeting the ground. Centaurs are dimorphic mammals, with the females being typically larger and having udders in front of their hind legs.
Genetics and Reproduction
Centaurs live on average for 30 years, reaching sexual maturity at 5 years, with a gestation period of 12 months. Centaurs typically have only one offspring per pregnancy, and cannot become pregnant again for at least another year. Centaur foals have a survival rate of approximately 6:1 to reach yearling status.
Growth Rate & Stages
Centaur foals are born with the ability to run, however fleetingly, within a few hours, though they may do so only on all six limbs. Centaur yearlings typically develop speech and theory of mind around 12 months, at which point they are discouraged from walking on six limbs. Colts and fillys — Centaurs who have reached sexual maturity — typically move about using only their hind legs, with the middle pair tucked against themselves. Usage of their four back legs is only for long-distance or very swift travel.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Centaurs are omnivores, typically eating meat and dairy every few days, whilst supporting themselves primarily on tough grasses. Most Centaur cultures dry and grind these grasses into a fibrous flour which they mix with milk and fill with raw meat before baking. Centaurs need surprisingly little water to survive, despite their bulk, and can sustain themselves on approximately half that of a Human.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
kharm maika kon
Origin/Ancestry
Maikic
Average Height
157 cm (5'2") at withers, 240cm (8') reared
Average Weight
550kg (1213lbs)
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