Baryonyx (beh·ree·aa·nuhks)

Threat Level: Intermediate

Primarily found within marshlands, it is not uncommon to find the Baryonix (often called “Barry’s”) anywhere with a fresh body of water, where they mainly subside on fish, but are known to go after larger prey at the waters edge.

Description

Standing 8-10 feet tall, and stretching 26-29 feet long, the Barryonix resembles its Spinosaurus cousins, with an elongated body and snout, but lacking the renound sail of the spino.

It is known for its extreme adaptability, feeling just as comfortable in a flooded cave system as they are in a coastal estuary. Baryonyx have even been seen crossing the Sea of Terthesys. They live in many environments but prefer a watery area for the fish. Their diets consist of literally anything that can fit in their jaws, from fish and mice to small dinosaurs and lost sauropod hatchlings.

Behavior and Hunting

Baryonix are some of the most intelligent dinosaurs on Jotunheim, and as such are extremely curious by nature. Often curiously observing new things within their homes at a distance, and have been noted to “play” with smaller creatures (most often after a meal, or while sunbathing, as their kill drive has all but subsided at these times) and items cast aside by travelers (such play has included the throwing and catching of a bucket, tug-o-war with sacks, and on one occasion the chewing and rolling of a wagon wheel. This was short lived, as the specimen eventually became stuck within the spokes of the wheel, at which point the others destroyed said wheel.). It is also thanks to this intelligence that they are able to live and work in small, but tight nit groups, usually comprised 3-4 members.

As said before, on occasion they will actively target larger prey items, much akin to crocodiles or alligators. Unlike them, however, they will often employ group tactics when subduing, with individual groups preferring their own methods. Some have been noted to simply lunge out of the water, with each being assigned a different part of the body to “grab” info and drag the prey item within the water.

The most unique hunting method, however, was observed when a researcher stumbled upon what seemed to be a failed hunt when a Baryonix seemingly missed its lunge from the water on an adolescent Amargosaur, only for the fleeing beast to be met with two more Baryonix hidden within the brush, lying in wait.

Additional Information

Interestingly, many in Jotunheim have taken to raising them as companions and mounts. As their natural loving and protective disposition, along with a highly intelligent and curious nature, allows them to be easily trained and bonded with. Though many claim the downside to the Baryonix being its jealous nature (often not allowing its ride to go upon other mounts) and their “ornery” attitudes when hungry.