Istrod

Basic Information

Anatomy

The Istrod is considered a marvel as far as relatives of the tortoise go. Their hind legs are more developed than their front legs, which they use to walk bipedally. They evolved in such a way so that they could wade through rising waters in the rainy season of the country of Belwynn. Their shells cover their backs and stomachs, but also stretch out over the top of their heads and upper jaws, protecting their heads from birds of prey. They have snapping turtle-esque beaks, and powerful jaws, to crunch through tree nuts and tougher fruit. Their shells are typically darkly colored, black or brown, with green edges, and their bodies are dull murky teal. Their front arms have grown short with disuse, though it is speculated that when they first evolved to walk on two legs, they used their front legs like arms to pull roots out of the earth. Now they are only used to help push them up onto their hind legs, as they sleep on their stomachs.They have slightly longer tails, to help propel them through water when they wade, and to provide balance when they walk.

Ecology and Habitats

The country of Belwynn is known for the stark contrast between its wet and dry seasons, and so the Istrod evolved so as not to drown in the rains. In the dry season, their habitats are fields and valleys dotted with trees that they freely walk through, but when the rains turn these lands to swamp and lake, they walked across land bridges between small islands.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Istrod will eat leaves, grass, and fallen fruit and nuts from trees, which they can take the most nutrients from. They are simple foragers, but if they find food while full, they will lay down over their food to protect it with their large shells.