Aarakocra

The fluttered in the sky, equidistant and precise, with an intent and purpose beyond our understanding from below.

- Richmond Alberny, Dragonborn Scholar

Aarakocra are a reclusive bird-like people hidden away either high in the mountains or hidden deep in forests, shrouded by the thick canopy above where they often make their homes. Devoted only to their small clans and rarely tempted by the spoils of the earth, an Aarakocra is truly a rare sight to behold, even when deep in their territory, and is often seen as a sign of good fortune. You will likely never see an Aarakocra on solid ground except to ask for aid in handling a danger threatening their home.

Aerial Sentinels

Aarakocra can occasionally spend days in the sky, riding the thermals like an albatross at sea, perpetual guards against incursions from the Elemental Planes, particularly the Plane of Earth who they've been locked into a nigh endless conflict with. Despite the Sundering preventing these incursions to the Material Plane, an Aarakocra is raised quickly to combat these threats should they ever re-surge. An Aarakocra will reluctantly land only to gather food, preen, or tend to the young and infirm, only to return after their duties are complete.

A World Above

An Aarakocra lives in a society far different than the typical settlements founded by the other races. The concept of ownership is beyond their comprehension which extends to children and nests. Once matured a typical member of a nest often only follows under the tribe elder who is oftentimes the one who deals with the commonfolk below. On the rare chance you accompany an Aarakocra on your travels take close note of their speaking patterns, an Aarakocra often adds chirps and sounds much like others use facial expressions.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

Aarakocra are average in height and typically exceptionally lanky with particularly thin legs and sharp talons. Their feathers often range from deep browns and bright whites resembling falcons and eagles to vibrant varied colors like parrots and other tropical birds. Males often have brighter colors whereas females typically have muted feathers.

Growth Rate & Stages

Aarakocra rapidly mature by age 3 and rarely live beyond 30.

Civilization and Culture

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Aarakocra are rarely interested in the affairs of earthbound races. They regard Kenku with a level of pity and treat them unfathomably kindly, much to the Kenku's discomfort.

Lifespan

30 years

Average Height

5'

Average Weight

85 - 100 lbs.