Griffins (Species)

Introduction
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Griffins are part of Fantasii's fantasy world, Drakomia.
In the Aerial Metropolis, the city built on top of the floating lands, griffins, dragons, wyverns and all kinds of flying creatures soar. Riders, usually Elves or Humans, have learned to tame these fearsome beasts, and use them as a means of transport throughout the city. Griffins are popular among young riders, due to how easy it is to bond with them. The bird-lion creatures prefer warm places to live and are often found near or on mountains or forests with access to sunlight.
Appearance
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Griffins have an arrange of auburn, brown, cream, grey, white and black fur. Their underbelly is usually a lighter color than their main color. A griffin's feathered wings are usually the same color as their underfur, if not a little different.
The head of a griffin is encased in a skull like exoskeleton, which serves as protection. The encasing on a griffin's head has holes for the eyes and nose, which cast a shadow, making the eyes seem like they glow. Griffins have glowing amber, yellow or orange eyes, it is very rare that a griffin has different colored eyes. They have horns, usually straight or slightly curved. Some griffins have markings either carved or etched onto their foreheads, mostly used as to mark that the griffin belongs to someone.
Griffins have feathered wings, along with something similar to a dragon wings holding all the feathers together. Their tail usually has a tuft of fur or feathers on it, used for balance and navigation. Griffins have either black or dark maroon tongues, and no teeth. The insides of their mouths are usually a lighter maroon or a slight pink. Their claws are sharp, and resemble a lion’s, usually fading into a darker color than their main fur. Griffins have slit-like pupils, similar to a cat’s or a snakes which can get wider or thinner, depending on their surroundings. 
A griffin is larger than a human but smaller than a wyvern. They are lean and slightly skinny but grow very fast during the first 2-4 years, slowing down when they become adults (5 years and older). Griffin chicks are usually big enough to fit in a person/elf’s hands. Their wingspan is about twice their body length. When frightened, a griffin’s fur will often poof up, to make it seem bigger and stronger, similar to a frightened cat. 
Griffins have large lungs, useful in the thin air. Their nostrils and eyes are protected from the air by their exoskeleton, creating a small 'wall' around the eyes and nose. Due to this, griffins are extremely efficient flyers. 
Category:Species
Category:Work in Progress