| Notes |
JATEWOONES
Climate: Mild, Cool/ Average, Temperate, Cold/Dry.
Habitat: Marsh/swamp.
Frequency of Encounter: Light.
Size: 12-14 ft. wingspan.
The Jatewoone is also known as the cleaverbeak or marsh bird. Standing 9' tall and endowed with Swan-like necks and long, powerful legs, these white waterfowl sport a scarlet band across the eyes. From a distance they might look like a large crane, although they are not ofthat family.
Their beak is a light grey with the exception ofthe sharp, brilliant indigo dorsal ridge from which they get their name. Extending from this ridge over their head and thrusting out behind is a crest of feathers of the the same color. Birds of prey in every sense, their legs end in talons that can grip even small creatures tightly, and their beaks are made for tearing.
Jatewoones live on snakes, fish, and small mammals. Their reputation for hostility comes from their protec-tion of their nests which are usually hidden in swampy areas. They will also attack when they are surprised by noisy people. These birds are incredibly strong and, with their superior height, can do terrible damage to the normal human, often splitting the skull. They can also use their large talons with great effectiveness.
Jatewoones mate for life and produce one or two eggs every year or every other year. Usually only one ofthe fledglings will survive. These young Jatewoones grow at a remarkable pace, reaching three-quarters oftheir full height in only one year and are fully mature by two. Jatewoones can fly, but if the need to escape danger arises, it is more common to see them running at high speeds, using stillwater areas for cover.
Special Abilities
Cleaver Beak – The Jatewoone’s beak is razor-sharp and can easily split bone. If it rolls a critical hit, the target must make an Endurance roll vs. the Jatewoone’s attack roll or suffer a crippling wound (head injuries can be fatal).
Savage Grip – If it lands a successful talon strike, it can hold onto small or medium creatures. Escape requires an opposed Brawn vs. STR 16 check.
Swift Runner – Gains a +20% bonus to Evade when escaping on foot through swamp terrain.
Feral Tenacity – If reduced to 0 HP, it can fight for one extra round before succumbing. |
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