Griffons

**Physical** **Appearance**: Griffons stand at around 1.0-1.6 meters in height, their small size allowing them to move freely and more fluidly in the air and ground. They typically have an appearance of a cat and a bird combination, though some combinations may be counter effective. Depending on their species, their coloration may vary. However, a griffin will always have some sort of bright coloring on them. To anyone outside of the gruff life, they’ll see a bright animal. But they’re a picky group, so what may appear to be a beautiful griff to a drakes may be considered a dull one by its kind. The colors are typically found on the outer and inner wings, head crests, and chest. In rare cases some bright feathering/fur may appear on the tail. In their life, if a griffin has brighter and more unique colors, the more attractive and beloved they become to potential mates and communities. To solve this, it’s become quite common to imp temporary feathers in, or dye them. This practice is especially common during festivals and celebrations. Griffons keep to their species gender colorations (unless specially stated they’re transgender). Such as a male peacock griffon having the brighter colors, while a female will have the tawny and white color.

**Coloration**: They can be any color in which their two animals are with small hints of extra color as well. The bright feathering along their wings or head may be any color possible, including black and white (Though it may not be the best color to choose).

**Territory**: Griffons inhabit every land space available save for the Forgotten Territories. They’re known for living up in the mountains and on high cliffs, but it’s not uncommon to find some living closer to the earth. These patches of land that have been claimed by them are fiercely guarded, especially against Drakes and Dragons. It’s a rare occurrence, but it’s happened often enough for a flock to swarm and kill intruders.

**Culture**: Contrary to what some say, Griffons are loving and loyal parents and partners. They have clutches of eggs between 2-6, the eggs hatching in about 7 months. The majority mate for life, but there are cases where there’s a falling out. To find a mate, they have annual mate-meeting. This is done with their village, town, cliff group, and sometimes mass gatherings. They come together and celebrate for a week, the final day the males will gather and do a moonlight or sunlight dance depending on who they want. They use the natural lighting to show off their feathers and skills, the dance being whatever they think will attract a mate. Homosexual relationships aren’t rare, and the community is well aware of it. Some old elders may disagree, but there is never any incident of someone being banned or stripped of their feathers for it. Regardless, they’re still expected to put in the work during the mate-meeting and earn a partner like everyone else. If there is a crime or accusation, a griffin will be stripped of their colorful feathers and dubbed a Dullhead. Since fathers are so strictly tied into their identity, it’s considered the highest punishment. These groupings usually leave their home during the many months it’ll take for their feathers to grow back, living closer to the Draconics. It’s during these times that trades may happen, though neither side is fully sure if it’s safe. Griffons trade Strykwood in exchange for foods, jewelry, fine clothing, and dyes. This is one of the only times these species will interact.

**Collections**: They’re fond of collecting trinkets and magical items, each griffons hoard being different than the rest. Some may collect gold, others may be fond of old books and stories. Even so, these hoards are prized by them, and it’s a more physical representation of their pride. Not every griffin has a hoard or collection, but over time a large mass of them has begun this new 'tradition' and picked up popularity.