Axe beak
An axe beak is an aggressive, flightless bird which possesses a fierce hunger for meat. Able to keep up with a horse, axe beaks are fearsome predators. The charge of an axe beak is so fast and effective that it often knocks opponents off their feet
Basic Information
Anatomy
It has long, agile legs, and three-toed feet with long talons. It could undoubtedly run at high speeds when hunting.
With a skull 71.6 centimetres (28.2 in) long, it possesses the largest head of any known bird. The tarsometatarsus of is 43.7 centimetres (17.2 in) long. Axe beaks are fast runners, more than other terror birds. It is estimated that Axe beak could run at speeds of 70 km/h. The size of the skull and its jaw muscles led to the conclusion the terror bird had an enormous bite force.
Biological Traits
Axe beaks got their name from their sharp wedge-shaped beaks. They had strong necks and powerful legs, which they used to sprint at high speeds
Genetics and Reproduction
Females typically lay clutches of 2-5 eggs once per year, which the parents take turns keeping warm for 2 months before they hatch.
Ecology and Habitats
Axe beaks were most commonly found in hills and grasslands, but they were also common to the forests of Grodan.
Flocks of axe beaks were also believed to be protective of their young, rushing to its aid in case of danger.
The Talonians of Talonto used to capture wild axe beaks to use them as mounts and pets.
Dietary Needs and Habits
The bird kills in two ways: first by grasping its prey with its talons and smashing it to the ground repeatedly.
Secondly, and more dramatically, by striking downward with the sharp downward spike at the front of its upper beak. If in the right position, the spike can penetrate the braincase and kill instantly, and lethal and great advantage this bizarre killer used to dominate and exploit is domain.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Axe beaks are relatively social creatures, forming small groups in which both males and females hunt together.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Although feared for their boldness and territorial natures, these giant birds prove eminently tamable, making useful guardians, hunters, and even steeds when kept well fed.
An axe beak requires training before it will bear a rider. Taming an axe beak requires 6 weeks of work. After which it can be taught tricks as normal. Riding an axe beak requires an exotic saddle. Axe beak eggs are worth 1,000 gp a piece on the open market, while young are worth 1,500 gp each. A light load for an axe beak is up to 200 pounds; a medium load, 201–400 pounds; and a heavy load, 401–600 pounds.
Average Intelligence
Axe beaks, despite their aggressive and highly territorial nature, are highly suited to being trained as mounts, beasts of burden or guard animals as they are highly intelligent.
Lifespan
Axe beaks have lifespans of up to 50 years.
Average Height
The Axe beak is the largest carnivorous bird of all time, possibly reaching 2.28 to 3.2 meters (7.5 to 10 feet)
Average Weight
weighing around 500 pounds (230 kg).
Geographic Distribution
Related Organizations
