Hiranasaurs

The hiranasaurs are a clade of terrestrial animals native to the Ariad. They range in size from the dwarf hiranasaur (up to 3 metres tall) to the Ariad's largest terrestrial animal, Nwene's hiranasaur, which can reach heights of over 15 metres.
Hiranasaurs are extremely social animals, travelling in herds of up to forty individuals, although occasionally up to thirty hiranasaur herds will join to form "superherds" either to breed or take advantage of ephemeral food sources.
Almost all halfling cultures consider hiranasaurs to be omens of good luck. Visiting herds of hiranasaurs are given symbolic offerings in return for bringing fertility to crops and livestock.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Hiranasaurs are quadrupedal with long, pillar-like legs and a heavy-bellied flank. Their most striking feature is their spiralling, fractal antlers, present on all adults, which may grow to up to six metres in length and weigh over a hundred kilograms.
The tails of hiranasaurs tend to be relatively short, although one species, the whip hiranasaur, has an extremely long whip-like tail that gives it its name. This hiranasaur has been observed creating sonic booms by whipping its tail.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Almost all hiranosaurs are herbivorous browsers, although a few species are opportunistic omnivores. Their main source of food is trees.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Hiranasaurs communicate almost exclusively through telepathy. Their antlers contain fillaments which absorb and concentrate Delta Radiation, acting like radio antennae. They are known to use complex language, with different herds having unique dialects; preliminary research suggests that herds may even carry their own oral histories.

Conservation Status

Protected by international law