Wildlife of the Helerin Archipelago

The Helerin Archipelago is a land of extraordinary biodiversity, where the natural world thrives in varied climates and landscapes.
From the fertile plains of Forbin to the rugged mountains of Mar Mabon, the islands host a remarkable array of creatures, both mundane and magical. The wildlife here has adapted to the unique environments found across the islands, creating a tapestry of life that is both awe-inspiring and, at times, perilous.
People across the archipelago live in close proximity to these wild creatures, whether as hunters, traders, or guardians of the land, and their stories, traditions, and livelihoods are deeply entwined with the animals around them.

Megafauna and monsters

The megafauna and monstrous creatures of Helerin are legendary, with beasts like the Rhakkor and Wyrm striking fear into the hearts of Helerin's people. These formidable beasts roam the archipelago's wildest regions, posing serious threats to anyone who ventures too close. Hunting them is a dangerous task, often undertaken by only the bravest or most foolhardy adventurers, yet their bones, hides, and other resources are highly prized.
People both fear and revere these creatures, with many seeing them as symbols of strength, endurance, or divine punishment. Legends often depict these beasts as guardians of sacred places or harbingers of great change.
See also: Megafauna and monsters

Amphibians

Amphibians in Helerin are often found in the archipelago's few wetlands, forests, and swamps. From the colorful frogs of the Silverwood to the elusive salamanders of the Festermere, these small but vital creatures play crucial roles in the ecosystem, such as controlling insect populations and maintaining environmental balance.
Though most are harmless, amphibians can also be seen as omens of natural change, especially among those who live near wetlands. Their interactions with people are mostly benign, though they may be captured and traded for medicinal purposes.
See also: Amphibians

Reptiles

Reptiles are widespread across the warm and varied landscapes of Helerin, from the arid plains to the forested hills. They range from harmless lizards to formidable snakes, and their cold-blooded nature allows them to thrive in the diverse climates of the archipelago.
People often encounter reptiles as nuisances or hazards, particularly in farming areas where snakes may prey on small livestock. Some reptiles are also hunted for their tough hides, which are used to make leather goods. These creatures symbolize both danger and resilience in local cultures.
See also: Reptiles

Insects and invertibrate

The insect life of Helerin is as varied as it is abundant, from the pollinating bees in the farmlands to the menacing giant wasps of Teros Minor.
Insects play essential roles in pollination, decomposition, and serving as prey for larger creatures. However, they also present significant threats to unwary travelers, particularly in the arid regions where dangerous species like the Skrathis roam. People harvest honey, wax, and silk from insects, but also live in fear of the larger, more dangerous species that can destroy crops or pose lethal threats.
See also: Insects and invertibrates

Birds

The skies of Helerin are filled with a diverse array of bird species, each adapted to their specific environments, from mountains to coasts.
Birds of prey, such as hawks and eagles, are revered as symbols of strength, while seabirds provide coastal communities with both sustenance and guidance at sea. Birds are also key in the cultural and symbolic life of the islands, often appearing in myths and stories as messengers of the gods or omens of fate.
Many birds are hunted for their feathers, meat, or eggs, while others are protected due to their spiritual significance.
See also: Birds of Helerin

Freshwater creatures

The rivers, lakes, and marshlands of Helerin are home to an array of freshwater creatures, from small fish to predatory amphibians. These waters provide vital resources for communities living inland, who rely on freshwater fish as a food source. However, creatures like the Thalkar fish, with its aggressive nature and sharp teeth, pose threats to those venturing into the waters unprepared.
Fishing is both a necessity and a risky endeavor in these regions, with certain species being highly prized for their taste, while others are avoided due to their toxicity or danger.
See also: Freshwater creatures

Sealife

The seas surrounding Helerin teem with marine life, ranging from tiny shrimp to giant sea serpents. Coastal communities rely heavily on the sea for sustenance, harvesting fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. However, these waters are also home to dangerous predators like the Krethgorr and sea serpents, which pose serious risks to sailors and fishermen.
People often tell tales of sea monsters, and some species are revered or feared for their association with the gods or legends of old. The trade of seafood, pearls, and other oceanic goods plays a major role in the economy, while hunting for large creatures like whales and sea trolls is seen as both an act of bravery and a rite of passage.
See also: Sealife of the Helerin Archipelago

Mammals

Mammals in Helerin range from the deer and wolves of the forests to the monkeys of the arid hills. These creatures are integral to the ecosystems of the islands, acting as both predators and prey.
People interact with mammals in many ways: hunting for food and fur, raising them for livestock, or occasionally coming into conflict with larger, more dangerous species like bears and boars. In some cultures, animals like the Hrynn and Vorind are revered as spiritual protectors or symbols of prosperity, while other creatures are seen as pests that threaten crops or homes.
See also: Mammals

Interactions with people

Wildlife in Helerin is more than just a backdrop to daily life—it actively shapes the way people live, work, and think. Creatures are hunted for their meat, fur, scales, or other valuable materials, while others are avoided due to their dangers. Farmers contend with pests that destroy crops, while sailors face the ever-present threat of sea monsters.
The relationship between people and the wildlife of the archipelago is complex, with creatures often serving as both a source of sustenance and a symbol of power, danger, or spiritual significance. Many animals are tied to local myths, seen as omens of good fortune or ill fate, influencing the way communities interact with the natural world around them.