Basilisk

A Basilisk is a large reptilian creature that an be found all over the world of Varda. Regional variations of these creatures is common, with differing colours, size and shapes being recorded.
Most notable about these creatures is their ability to magically turn other beings to stone with a single look in to the creatures' eyes. A clear sign that you have entered the territory of a Basilisk is finding parts of other wildlife rendered in remarkably life-like stone carvings. Typically only fragments of these victims are found.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Several variations of Basilisk are found across Varda, and each of these has adapted and evolved to fill a particular niche in the local ecosystem. Resembling large lizards, most will have six or eight legs, which they use to ponderously roam about on. Bony spines often protrude from their backs, an some even have a number of horns coming from their heads. Colouration varies greatly, but mostly consists of greys, browns, greens and other colours of natural camouflage. A typical Basilisk is quite a large creature, reaching around 11-13 feet in length. However, this can be a lot smaller dependant on the locale, with some species of Basilisk only being a foot or so in length when fully mature. A rarer breed, known as the Greater Basilisk, is said to grow much larger, but research in to these types is inconclusive as to their full size.

Genetics and Reproduction

With the ability to turn other creatures to stone with a glance, Basilisks have had to evolve other techniques for finding a mate. This is done by pheromone trails produced by both male and females, each unique to the individual. A natural instinct to avoid each others gaze also aids in preventing unwanted petrification.
Once a mate has been found, the pair will find a body of water for breeding. It is assumed that this aids in the support of the creatures hulking forms, as well as provides a natural defence from other predators.
Females would then return to their lair and lay from three to eight eggs, each around three inches in diameter. These would be buried in lose soils or mud for protection. The female will fiercely protect the location of the eggs, and will not hunt or feed until they hatched.

Growth Rate & Stages

Newly hatched, a Basilisk will be around six inches long. Growth rate varies depending on the species of Basilisk and environmental factors, but on average, a Basilisk will be fully mature in less than a year.

Ecology and Habitats

Basilisks can be found all across Varda, but most commonly in areas that provide many natural places for them to make lairs. Caves and underground locations are preferred for this. Being reptilian in nature, Basilisks also require natural warmth. Warmer climates with periods of sunshine are ideal for this, but so are volcanic regions.

Dietary Needs and Habits

A Basilisk will typically need a single large meal one per month, and have a much slower metabolism that allowed them to spend most of their time asleep or waiting for their next meal. Alongside their bulk and weight, this metabolism makes Basilisks a clumsy and slow-moving creature, not adapted to ambush or pursuit hunting. Their method of finding food relies purely on their magical abilities. A Basilisk will lay in wait, often in their lair but sometimes in a hidden location nearby, and wait for prey to come to them. All it takes is a single glance at the Basilisk's eyes for the petrification process to begin.
This magical ability is also used for defence, and it is not uncommon to find Basilisks out in the open, basking on a sunny day.
Although territorial in regards to their individual lair, Basilisks can commonly be found in small groups. No social structure has yet to be observed, but it is thought they do this to increase their chances of hunt success. It is much harder to avoid the gaze of multiple Basilisks. These groups of Basilisk' will have their lairs close by to one another, but will not permit entry to others of their kind.
In the process of petrification, victims are turned to stone. This does not seem to prevent Basilisks from eating, and with powerful jaws, statues are quite easily consumed. In addition to being able to turn creatures to stone, it appears a magical process within the digestive tracts of the Basilisk is capable of reversing this effect. Indeed, Basilisk guts and blood is a often sought-after ingredient for producing potions that overcome petrification.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Adapted to making lairs in subterranean locations, Basilisks have a degree of night vision. They also have a heightened sense of smell, although this is used for detecting other Basilisks rather than prey.

Average Weight

300 lbs

Average Length

13 feet

Type
Medium Beast (disputed. Monstrosity)
Location
All over Varda, most likely warmer climates and locations