Telkhines
The second most populous species upon Icarus, telkhines can be found almost everywhere. These short, hairy, dog-like humanoids have been present in almost every major historical event, whether in the background or etching themselves in the pages of history.
What can one say about telkhines? They're so common as to be unnoticeable, yet their presence cannot be ignored. No matter where you are upon this world, you will know or at least have seen a telkhine at least once in your lifetime. Indeed, I can observe five of them near my office now, three of which I know, and one is a dear friend. And they're the only four I know currently within eyesight. I could make a list as long as my tail of those which I know that are currently not here, and one the length of my desk of all who I know whom are no longer a part of the world of the living. ---From the desk of Magnum Ambrosius, circa 5/27/5079 AC
Basic Information
Anatomy
Telkhines have short, squat bodies, covered in a thick coat of fur. They stand upon short, muscular digitigrade legs ending in a foot that resembles a dog's paw. Their arms generally stretch down to just above their knees and end in human-like hands. These hands contain thick pads on the palm and undersides of the fingers, with each digit ending in a dog-like nail. Their heads are said to resemble that of a shepherd dog, with a long, broad snout and pointed ears that can swivel independently of each other, and are commonly used to display a number of emotions.
Genetics and Reproduction
A female telkhine will carry anywhere between 1-3 offspring at a time, with a gestation period of 10 months. Twins and triplets are therefore very common among telkhines, yet many of them will be fraternal. Identical siblings are the exception rather than the rule, and it is also uncommon for twins and triplets to be of the same biological sex.
Growth Rate & Stages
Unlike a lot of other of Icarus' sentient species, telkhines age slower and technically spend more time as a juvenile than other species. On average, telkhines will spend up to two years as an infant, five as a toddler, and will reach full adulthood by the time they turn 28. From there, a telkhine will be considered middle-aged by the time they're in their 60's or 70's, and an average telkhine will live up to 130 years.
Ecology and Habitats
Telkhines have adapted to live in all kinds of environments, although most tend to be comfortable in more temperate coastal climates.
Dietary Needs and Habits
As fits their dog-like look, telkhines are largely carnivorous. While they can and do eat fruits, vegetables, legumes, and other plant products, the vast majority of their nutrients come from meat. While foods high in protein such as tofu can provide the necessary nutrients, meat also contains essential amino acids as well.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Telkhines have excellent senses of smell and hearing, being able to pick up on individual scent trails and hear sounds at an infrasound level. Their vision is fairly average, usually no better than a human's, and their dark vision is severely lacking. Their sense of touch is also poor, with the thick pads of their hands having fewer nerve endings than a human hand.
Lifespan
130-135 years
Average Height
3-4 feet
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Most telkhine fur is some combination of black, brown, and grey. Fur colors such as red and white/yellow are rare, yet are still occasionally seen. They can also have various colored markings on their body, usually close to their main body fur.
Telkhines can also have tattoos, yet they are applied differently than other species, usually in one of two ways. The markings can be painted on using crystal-infused paint that bonds with their skin. Usually, the area will need to be shaved first, yet when the fur grows back, the areas that have been painted will retain the shape and color of the painted markings. Another method is a lot like branding, where it will be burned into the skin and the area that grows back will often be raised and have lighter fur.
Related Ethnicities