Talldeer

It's always funny to watch the new ones when we see the first Talldeer on patrol.  It usually takes them a couple of looks.  The first glance, no more than a few seconds, makes them stop and think.  After the second one, they're crying the alarm.  We have a good yarn about it afterwards.  To be fair, we all do it.  Nothing quite like a five-metre-tall pale grey thing coming out of the night to give you the willies.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Talldeer are strange creatures produced by Rifts. Like a typical stag, they possess four legs and large antlers. However, as their name indicates, talldeer are much taller than typical deer. Standing somewhere between three and five metres in height, talldeer have very long legs and necks, each stretching up to 2 metres tall. These have the same width as they typically would, however, making the animal appear as though stretched vertically. Apart from these differences, talldeer also have elongated heads, and larger antlers than would typically be observed on a stag.

Genetics and Reproduction

Talldeer do not appear to reproduce, but rather are, like most Riftbeasts, spawned at random from active Rifts. They are typically found around the less volatile Rifts.

Growth Rate & Stages

Talldeer have been observed as what are thought to be juveniles, standing at a height more similar to that of a normal deer. However, no thorough study has been carried out of their maturing, and so no other solid data is available. It’s surmised that they grow at a very fast rate, perhaps taking only a week to reach adult size.

Ecology and Habitats

Talldeer typically ignore other animals, including other Riftbeasts.  Although their foraging activities will occasionally bring them into contact with other animals, they will try to stay away from them as much as possible.
Although no evidence of predation has ever been observed, it's assumed that talldeer are preyed on by other, more aggressive, Riftbeasts such as Rifthorses.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Talldeer usually graze on plants near the Rift that they have been created from.  This can include grasses, bushes, and the leaves of trees.  Their unusual height allows them access to higher branches than other animals can reach, allowing them a monopoly on this food source.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Talldeer have no eyes or ears, only nostrils.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Found exclusively near Rifts.

Average Intelligence

Low

Conservation Status

Talldeer, being Riftbeasts, are avoided by all. However, as they mostly appear to be non-malicious, they are not actively destroyed by Rider troops.

Average Height

4.5 metres

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Talldeer are a uniform pale grey, save for their antlers which have more of a sepia tone.