Vabu

Vabu are very large mammals that inhabit the central plains of Karnion. They stand on four legs, with large straight horns. They tower above men and elves, but are normally very docile. They travel in large packs, and can be fiercely loyal. When they stampede they can leave huge tracks of churned up dirt and vegetation, and almost nothing can stop them. They have been domesticated by the kingdoms in central Karnion, and are used as a staple food source, especially in Fojurn. Their horns, pelts, and bones also see much use in many areas, and are sold cheaply. Vabu can reproduce quickly, and normally carry multiple calves to birth.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Vabu have two massive horns that grow out of their head, both the male and female. They use these horns to dig up the underground fruit that they eat. They are straight and very thick in relation to the head size. Because these creatures are so massive, their bone structure consists of dense, thick bones in their legs and chest. They have hooves on their feet that allow them to run at speeds of up to 12 miles an hour, a feet nearly unmatched for creature of their size. Both the Vabu's heart and their tiny brains are located in their chest.

Genetics and Reproduction

Vabu normally carry 2-3 calves at one time, for a period of 4 months. The calves are born very small, about the size of a 12 year old human. They can walk at once, but are born without horns. The calves grow and are normally fully grown within about 6 years.

Growth Rate & Stages

Vabu Calves grow from about the size of a human child to a fully grown adult in approximately 6 years. Though born hornless, the horns will reach their maximum length in 12-15 years. They are nurtured on their mothers milk for up to a year before eating the fruit that becomes their entire diet. This period is the only period in an adult Vabu's life where they sit down or lay down, and it is to feed the calves. Otherwise Vabu sleep on their feet.

Ecology and Habitats

Vabu reside exclusively in the open plains of central Karnion. Their long legs can easily trample through the tall grasses and their horns were built to dig up food from the vast amount of underground fruits.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Vabu dig up fruits that grow along the roots of certain shrub species in central Karnion. They must consume hundreds of these fruits a day to stay alive, but starvation is uncommon. The fruits are abundant in the ground.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Vabu travel in large groups, with the only semblance of family structure being calves to their mother. The male Vabu are too docile to fight over the females, and will often mate whenever with any female. The groups are fiercely loyal, and when one member is killed, it can stir the rest up into a frenzy. To avoid this, Vabu herders will often separate the Vabu to be slain from the rest before killing it.

Domestication

The Fojurn kingdom has been keeping Vabu for generations. Vabu herding is a high paying, although very dangerous job in the kingdom. The Fojurn Vabu have been domesticated to have bigger horns and a more docile attitude towards humans. Although wild Vabu are docile, domesticated Vabu are very docile and rarely attack humans intentionally, however if spooked, Vabu herds have been known to trample entire villages.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The massive pelt of the Vabu is used as clothing and can be studded to be used as armor. The horns are durable, but can be formed easily through whittling. Vabu horn weapons are very common among lower income individuals, and are sold at cheap prices nearly anywhere. Vabu meat is a staple food in most of Karnion, especially in Fojurn. Even Vabu bones see use as scaffolding and building material due to their durable nature.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Exclusively native to the plains of central Karnion

Average Intelligence

Vabu are not very smart creatures. They rely on their massive size and strength to deter any predators, and when in fear they cause massive, landscape-destroying stampedes.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Vabu have poor sensory capabilities. They are mostly blind due to the lack of proper blood flow to their head. They cannot smell very well. They do have hearing organs located on their stomach to allow them to detect predators underneath them. They do have nerves in their horns that allow them to feel the ground when they are digging, especially when their head is down.

Scientific Name

Vabu

Lifespan

60 Years

Average Height

Between 17-25 feet

Average Weight

14000 pounds

Average Length

33-38 feet

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Vabu are normally a dull gray-brown color, although rarely certain Vabu can be born a spotless white. These White Vabu are considered very special, and their pelt can fetch a high price.