Cliff Raptor

Bestiary entry by Aldric Shadowmark, Grand Hunters Lodge

Classification: Flying Predator
Habitat: Mountain cliffs and canyons
Threat Level: Dangerous

Description

With wingspans rivaling dragons, Cliff Raptors rule the mountain skies. Their talons can pierce plate armor, and their dive speed exceeds any bird. Eagle-like in form but scaled rather than feathered, they carry off goats, deer, and occasionally unwary travelers.

Behavior

Nest in inaccessible cliff faces. Mate for life and defend territory viciously. Hunt by diving from extreme heights, striking with lethal impact. Some cultures revere them; others hunt them for their valuable scales.

Combat Notes

Nearly impossible to fight in open ground - find cover immediately. Arrows can bring them down if struck during dive. Their nests contain valuable materials but reaching them is suicidal without flight capability.