Umthimbd

CAUTION: as of 16/02/2022 this article is a WORK IN PROGRESS.
Umthimbd are beaked, dog-like monotremes native to the western continent. They are related to the Northern Hound as members of the Monotreme clade Rostrulupidae. 
Umthimbd most closely resemble smaller canids such as foxes, coyotes, etc. in great contrast to the exceedingly wolf-life Hellhounds. Their ears are large and long, akin to a hare's, in order to sense for predators (possibly including Higer). Their legs are longer and thinner allowing them to stand above and survey tall grass, their tails are stubbier and most peculiarly are green in colour. 
Their 'beaks', much like platypus bills, are not actually beaks but a specialised skin covering on their muzzle. Unlike the highly sensitive bills of the platypus, however, Umthimbd beaks are leathery and thick, allowing them to withstand strikes from snakes and other more aggressive animals.
Primarily carnivores, they prey mostly on small mammals, ground-dwelling birds, reptiles and eggs. If a possum or koala were to find its way to the forest floor then an Umthimbd most likely indulge itself, despite the more aggressive disposition of koalas. Echidnas may be preyed upon, the Umthimbd's beak can be incredibly resilient to the spines, however other animals are much preferred. Umthimbd may feast on the left-over carcasses of larger animals they would otherwise have much difficulty downing, such as wombats and geese, however this is only an occasional occurrence.
While found throughout the north-eastern forests it most notably occurs in Mimbibl, the term 'Umthimbd' occuring in the Mindlib Language.
Category:Species