Tsubata

I don't like expeditions into the Mizarin jungle, Not only does everything seem to want to kill me. You also need to look at all trees nearby you because of these Tsubatae.

— Yamaderis

Tsubatae are one of the many feline species which can be found in the Mizarin Jungle but is perhaps the strangest looking in the region. While most feline species are only known to have furry coats, the Tsubata species also has feathers on several parts of its body. Their wings, although not capable of true flight, do offer the ability to glide through the jungle.
This gliding ability makes them one of the most versatile predators in the region. Anyone walking through their territory not only needs to keep an eye on the low vegetation but also on the canopy.
However, some of the tribes living in the Mizarin Jungle, such as the Nekorians, have tamed some of them. For traversing long distances in the jungle they are a prime mount.

Extra Information

Scientific Name

tsubaxa (Tsubatha)

Name

Tsubata or winged tiger

Origin

Can be found in the Mizarin Jungle

Lifespan

15 - 35

Size

4-6 m lenght

Biology

Physiology

In general a Tsubata has similar looks to a tiger. They have a furry coat in orange, black and white colours on several places of their body. However, in some place they have feathers as well. This is mostly on their back and on their wings but also around their face.
While most feline species are only known to have furry coats, the Tsubata species also has feathers in several colours on otherparts of its body. Their wings, although not capable of true flight, do offer the ability to glide through the jungle.

Food

Tsubatae are capable of catching quite large prey but prefer to go for medium sized animals most of the time such as pigs or monkeys. From time to time they are also known to catch birds.
As they are mostly solitary hunters they tend to not go into fight that they know they can't win. This is also the most likely reason why they are never seen attacking any dinosaurs living in the jungle. If they would work together in group they would be able to manage such feats but so far only tamed Tsubatae are known to cooperate.

Tsubata by kefkejaco with midjourney

by Kefkejaco with artbreeder

by Kefkejaco with artbreeder

Climate

So far Tsubatae have not been seen outside of the Mizarin Jungle although they could possibly survive in all rainforest climates. The high trees and limited view in the jungle are very beneficial to the Tsubatae. They are known to use their claws to climb high into the trees where they get a good vantage point of the area. From high up in the canopy it waits for its prey.
Once they found their victim they leap from their position and glide silently towards it. Once they are in a perfect position they take a dive and pounce their prey.

Reproduction

Every two to three years a Tsubata starts to look for a mate. Since they live in solitude most of the time they need to travel quite a distance during which they try to catch the scent of a possible mate. Once found they typically use their gliding ability to perform a sort of courtship dance. Once the female Tsubata accepts the male they mate.
Typically this leads to about 3-5 cubs per pregnancy. For about 1 year the female Tsubata takes care of her cubs after which they are mature enough to hunt on their own and leave the territory.

History

Mounts

The first to start to domesticate the Tsubatae were the Nekorians who, according to records, were to first to domesticate many species in the region. Although quite difficult for older Tsubata, a young cub is quite easy to pacify. Once they are large enough they can be used for as a mount which is a great way to travel long distances in the dense jungle.
Although other Beastfolk tribes in the region have also managed to domesticate them, the vast majority can still be found in Nekorian territories. Many believe this is because both the Nekorians and the Tsubata have feline features which makes it easier for a young cub to see it as a parent.
The most fervent user of the Tsubata mounts were the Toranians who used them in many battles during their wars of expansion. Even today they are kept in Zarkerik where they have become part of their flag.

by kefkejaco with midjourney